24 hours in Belfast: where to eat and drink

Start your morning off right with some delicious breakfast and coffee from the hugely popular General Merchants. A local favourite, this quirky cafe boasts various locations around the city making it the perfect place to visit no matter where you’re staying. Whether you’re in the mood for a filling plate of eggs, sourdough bread and fresh veg, or something sweet like pancakes or porridge, there will be something here that tickles your fancy. Plus, it serves coffee from local roasters White Star Coffee, so you’ll feel plenty fuelled for your day of adventures ahead.

For a filling lunch to suit all tastes, ages and dietary requirements, we recommend the fantastic Ben Madigan’s. This laidback eatery offers classic favourites with a modern twist, making it a great spot to enjoy the flavours of the city. With a friendly atmosphere and award-winning food and drink, this is the perfect spot to fuel up before taking on your next activity…

After a busy day, you might want to refuel with some delicious coffee and cake. If so, there is nowhere better to do so than Cafe Parisien at the heart of Belfast City Centre. Overlooking City Hall, you can enjoy some tasty French-inspired treats in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Whether you opt for afternoon tea or even a couple of cheeky cocktails, this is the perfect place to relax and unwind before an evening out in Belfast.

For a truly unforgettable meal, you need to check out the quirky and creative A Peculiar Tea in the city’s University Quarter. With the talented Chef Gemma Austin at the helm, dining here is an experience like none other. Offering limited menus centred around a specific theme, from movies to theatre, music and more, you can always expect something new and exciting here. And it’s not just the menus that match the theme. Rather, each time the menu changes, the entire restaurant is transformed to match, making this a truly immersive dining experience that will enamour all of your senses. 

No trip to Belfast is complete without a few drinks – and if you’re looking for a great spot to enjoy a glass of wine or some creative cocktails, then we highly recommend The Observatory at The Grand Central Hotel. As the highest bar in the city, you can enjoy unrivalled views of the inner city centre and further afield as you sit back and relax with a glass of bubbly in hand. Perfect for a date night or a catch up with friends, this is a great spot to watch the sun go down on your 24 hours in Belfast.