Belfast Restaurant Recommendations

[Decker]

I've got to go to Belfast on business in a few weeks so wonder if any locals have restaurant recommendations. I'll probably be doing Deanes and James Street South but would welcome any newcomer suggestions?

Shu on the Lisburn Rd is a favourite of mine. The restaurant in the newly opened Fitzwilliam hotel is also very good. No shortage of decent restaurants in Belfast...

[Decker]

Noticed that last time I was there for a fortnight. I liked Ginger and Cayenne too but regretfully only got three nights this time. The walk from the Hilton to there was interesting so this time it's the Mal.

We loved this place - excellent!! http://www.michaeldeane.co.uk/deli.asp

EDIT: Sorry Andrew just realised you'd already mentioned Deans!!

[Decker]

Cheers anyway

Since you're staying in the "Badhouse" I would recommend you visit The Merchant which is really close by. The restaurant is beautiful and the food is good. Better on a busier night, ( it may seem a little large as it is in the main hall). Great cocktail bar in the original and separate jazz bar in the new bit.

Number 27 Talbot Street and Nick's Warehouse are also close by and worth a visit. Tedford's serves the best fish in town and is a favourite of mine.

Personally, I am not keen on Deane's and prefer James Street South but have also been disappointed there once. For a more casual night try Made in Belfast or its sister property Hooligans (not what it sounds like).

Other good bars with a bit of character close to your hotel are The Spaniard and Muriel's.

Enjoy your trip.

[Decker]

Thanks DocRo - I did look at staying ay The Merchant but they're obviously a lot busier than the Mal judging by rates! Both are convenient for the client - a 5 minute walk away. Thinf I liked about Deane's was chatting to the man himself - he was always very approachable. Just checking my notes on JSS - "The introductory plate showed more attention to detail than that of any other meal I'd eaten in Belfast and seemed worthy of a Michelin star in itself. The service was courteous and attentive without being overbearing.". Decisions to be made . Right Tedfords looks gorgeous and is walkable from the hotel so that's Monday taken care of. 27 Talbot Street is a hundred yards or so from the client but looks a little austere for my tastes decoration wise? James Street South will have to be Sunday as so few places open on a Sunday! Tasting Menu at the Merchant on Tuesday.....

That's me decided untll I change my mind Thanks again for the new pointers.

its a tough life!

Let's hope it doesn't rain too much during your stay here.

[Decker]

Well virtually no one opens on Monday - so schedule change - Made in Belfast on the Monday, James Street South on the Sunday and the Merchant on the Tuesday

Enjoy your trip Decker
If you were in B'fast to night you would probably settle for a touch of room service and an early night.
Don't expect Gordo Ramsay at Made in Belfast but the atmosphere is refreshingly different and the decor eye catching. Hope it's not too quiet on a Monday.
I might take a wander through The Merchant on Tuesday to see if I can spot a VIP in a wetsuit and sunglasses.

[Decker]

Cheers DocRo

I checked MiB vs the sister and I actually liked MiB - the attitude is refreshing and the food looks a lot better than I was eating earlier in the week in a similar stay in North Wales.

I'll be in jeans and hoody but if you try a "you are Decker and I claim my £5" I'll happily buy you a drink . Table booked for 19:00

Marvellous,
Can't really see me getting there on a school night but with the opportunity for a drink with a V-Fly Mod - well you never know!