Belfast's bar scene is as diverse as it gets, offering everything from laid-back jazz nights to raucous late night partying. Whether you're in the mood for sky-high sips on a stunning rooftop or curling up with a few signature cocktails in a sleek lounge, we're here to help. Explore our guide to the best bars in Belfast and enjoy a unique night out in the Northern Irish capital.
Last edited by Abbie Leyton
If you're after top-notch sips in the city, be sure to check out The Tipsy Bird & Brewers Yard on Ann Street. Make your way inside to enjoy vibrant interiors and exposed brick walls, before exploring the cocktail menu. Our pick? A Baby Flamingo made up of gin, prosecco and raspberry.
Home to some of the best drinks in Belfast, Howard Street is bringing you an eclectic mix of classics and signature serves. Think lavendar G&Ts, berry spritzes and A Thousand Smiles which pairs Thai infused vodka with lychee, lime, chilli and coconut.
Looking for a sleek hotel bar in Belfast? The Fitzwilliam Hotel is a swanky space that just oozes luxury. Ideal for anything from client meetings to after work drinks or date nights, the modern space of orange furnishings, low lighting and elegant cocktails is one unique place to drink.
An institution in Belfast's bar scene, Filthy McNasty's is made up of mannequin lamps, vintage vinyl and plenty of other quirky furnishings. Settle in for an evening of local music, authentic Italian pizzas and a top-notch collection of draught beers to whet your appetite.
The Northern Whig is an award-winning bar in Belfast's Cathedral Quarter, pairing traditional pub interiors with elevated food and drink offerings from acclaimed chef Rick Orr. While away the hours in a cosy nook here and you'll get to soak up signature mojitos, brambles and margaritas.
The Perch Rooftop Bar is a unique cocktail bar in Belfast's city centre, serving a wide selection of classic mixes, beer and wine. Feeling peckish? There's a piping hot spread of pizza to keep you fed as you soak up the cool vibes of this converted warehouse space.
Union Street Bar is one of Belfast's best gay bars, offering everything from pub quizzes to pride parties and cabaret shows. Join this LGBTQ+ favourite for a night out and you'll find a packed event schedule, alcoholic slushies and late night feasting on the rooftop.
Taking inspiration from South America, Liquor XXX is one of the best cocktail bars in Belfast for its tequila, pisco and cachaça-laced mixes. Welcoming guests with an 'adult' shopfront, the venue puts a racy spin on things indoors with red velvet booths, vintage trinkets and Latin tunes.
Rita's is a haven for small plates, cocktails and partying in the Linen Quarter. Searching for one of the best bars in Belfast for a date? This is sure to make that sepcial someone swoon with its cool vibe and extensive collection of gins, craft beers and signature mixes.
Another one of Belfast's gorgeous hotel bars is The Cocktail Bar at The Merchant Hotel, which has previously been named one of the world's best. Made up of swish chandeliers, leather banquet seating and velvet finishes, this sleek spot is home to some of Ireland's top bartenders.
This Belfast bar really does cater to all your food and drink needs, offering a classic pub experience at The Dirty Onion and rotisserie chicken goodies from Yardbird. If you're a sucker for whiskeys, explore their dedicated guide book which will help you find some of the best sips in the city.
If you're on the lookout for a Belfast bar with entertainment, Bert's Jazz Bar is sure to impress. Bringing a dash of 1930s New York razzle dazzle to the city, this quirky cocktail joint combines plush red interiors with live music and high-quality refreshments for one luxurious experience.
Shaking up all sorts of thirst-quenching cocktails, Santeria is taking you on a journey across Latin America and The Caribbean through an epic drinks list. Head to Fountain Street for a taste yourself.
Perfectly perched atop the Bullitt Hotel, Babel Rooftop Bar and Garden is one of the best bars with a view in Belfast. Head here for handcrafted cocktails and light bites while overlooking the city, with weekend boozy brunches, afternoon tea and live music events on the regular.
Fibber Magee's is hands-down one of the most beloved pubs in Belfast, offering a cosy retreat that's fuelled by traditional music, classic Irish grub and plenty of booze. Made up of a lounge, pool loft, saloon and bistro, it's the perfect spot to sink a few hours into.
Cabaret Supper Club offers its guests the opportunity to be wined, dined and entertained under one roof. One of the quirkiest bars in Belfast, this fun joint serves refreshments alongside a regular showcase of burlesque, comedy, live music and acrobatics.
A fuss-free bar that focuses on locally-brewed bevvies, Bullhouse Brewing Company's flagship is all about the craft beer. Head to the Eastside spot for a regularly changing menu that includes signature IPAs, vegan ales and stouts, as well as biodynamic wines small batch spirits.
