Unique Cocktail Bars in Belfast

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Bar, Cocktail Bar, Nightclub, Pub Grub, $
With its super funky decor, classic anthems, and ping pong tables to keep you entertained all night, this fun-filled student haven is the most unique cocktail bar in Belfast. They offer a long list of thirst-quenchers, including craft beers and ales, to be drunk while chilling out on huge comfy sofas, or enjoying the kitted-out arcade. The cocktails have comical names like Beetlejuice, Check Norris, and Ace Ventura and an exploding mixture of colours and flavours. The best part? They come in jam jars. Try checking in on #Cheapskatetuesdays for some great deals.

Nightclub, Cocktails, $

Love and Death Inc cannot be recommended enough for cocktail lovers. Situated at the top of a dimly lit narrow staircase on Anne’s Street, this bar’s name does it justice. Dark, award winning cocktails are presented to visitors sitting on old fashioned wooden furniture, with wax covered candelabras and an old bike hanging from its ceiling. The cocktails – fresh, innovative and unlike any other bar in Belfast – are truly sensational. Try the Dark and Stormy, Mean Zombie, or Aviation, which is perfect if you enjoy parma violets and a lavender flavour.

Bar, Pub, Cocktails, Beer, $$
Situated on Skipper Street, this little gem is a must visit for its merry atmosphere, friendly staff and classic cocktail menu. It particularly specialises in reasonably priced rum cocktails, the most delicious being the Extraordinary, which includes ginger beer, a hint of lime, and a shot of gold rum. The classic Mai-tai and the fresh minty white rum mojitos are equally satisfying. The Spaniard’s uniqueness not only resonates in its fabulous drinks, but also its extraordinary bohemian style decor. Every wall is covered with quirky art, religious symbols, and old signed photographs from famous artists and musicians.

Bar, Cafe, Pub Grub

Inspired by former milliner Muriel, this quaint little bar is full of much character, offering some of the most delicious cocktails in the city. As soon as you enter you’ll be struck by the quirky vintage decor, with velvet chairs, damask drapes, and shimmering chandeliers, not to mention the quirky hats and bras hanging from the ceiling. Famous for its fruity cocktails, including the daring Flaming Zombie, the menu also offers an extensive array of gins and rums, as well as old French Martinis.

Bar, European

If you’re on the lookout for somewhere trendy, modern, and classy, House Belfast (previously Madison Hotel) is the place for you. The building itself is stunning, with luxurious indoor decor. The cocktails are simply delicious; whether it’s a Cosmopolitan, Sex on the Beach, or a Strawberry Daiquiri, all are served in beautiful delicate glasses with sugar coated edges. This is a great place to kick-start a night out on the town.

Bar, Cocktail Bar, Cocktails, $$$

If you fancy somewhere more ‘out there’, then Rita’s is a must visit. With its deluxe interior decor, including plush velvet chairs to sink into, gorgeous retro art on the walls, and a homely fireplace, this venue oozes warmth. The best time to pop in for a glass or two is during Happy Hour on Sundays when live music is playing and the cocktails are quite cheap. They serve excellent Bloody Marys and Margaritas, as well as their own unique inventions.

Bar, Cocktail Bar, Pub Grub, $$
Situated on Franklin Street, and true to its name with its branchy perch-like design, this rooftop bar is not one to be missed. It has a real enchanting character; adorable plant pots, fresh flowers, and petite bird cages hang from the ceiling, creating a secret garden-like atmosphere. Look up at and admire the starlit night sky through the glass windows. Besides their delicious, crispy pizzas, their French 75, Mary Pickford, and Clover Club cocktails are simply the best, served in little plant pots, and offering the fruitiest summery flavours. A real winner.

One of the most refined and finest hotels in Belfast, The Merchant Cocktail Bar will not disappoint. With its lavish furniture and large selections of fancy drinks, including vintage champagnes and old spirits, it offers a glamorous dining experience. The cocktail menu is heavenly, offering the notorious Grasshopper, fresh Mint Juleps, zesty Nui Nuis, and coconuty Pina Coladas with toasted marshmallows, all presented with elegance.

Bar, Pub Grub, $$

Situated within the Merchant complex, this classic bar is one to visit if you love fancy cocktails, jazz and blues music, and if Goodfellasis your favourite movie. With deep red leather and velvet sofas complementing the black circular and square tables, this dimly lit room has a chilled romantic ambiance, with really friendly and welcoming staff. Bert’s Jazz Bar offers an extensive list of handpicked cocktails, from the old-fashioned Bramble and Daiquiri to unique, modern favourites. They are slightly on the pricier side when compared with the likes of Cuckoo, but worth every penny.