McHughs Bar & Restaurant

Featured reviews

• A

  Atanas Ilinov

  ·2 months ago

  “Great atmosphere and great food. Staff were really friendly too.”

• J

  Joanna P

  ·3 months ago

  “I highly recommend McHugh's Bar & Restaurant in Belfast. We first sat outside, enjoying the sunshine with a delicious pint of Citra IPA. Later, we decided to move inside for a meal and escape the heat. The place is warm, colourful, and full of character, with exceptionally friendly and welcoming staff. There was even a live band playing traditional Irish music in the middle of the day, with fiddle and flute creating a wonderful atmosphere. We started with the soup of the day – leek and potato soup served with delicious Irish bread – and the garlic mushroom toast, which came with an absolutely amazing balsamic sauce. For our main courses, we chose the traditional Irish stew and fish & chips. The portions were huge, and we struggled to finish everything because we were so full! The food was hearty, tasty, and very satisfying. The prices were reasonable too – two starters, two main courses, and two beers came to £66.”

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• D

  dzdzownicolo

  ·3 months ago

  “Place where you can have drink basking in the sun in the beer garden, eat delicious traditional stew and enjoy live Irish music. Staff was friendly and polite, tables and everything else clean. Prices were acceptable. Dress code - no sport clothing.”

• M

  Michael Blackmore

  ·4 months ago

  “Nice pub would reccomend the Guiness extra cold. Great bar lady very knowledgable on buses best places to go like The Kitchen Bar sports bar.”

• L

  Lee Roberts

  ·5 months ago

  “Amazing pub, we were lucky enough to have live irish music whilst we were there. The guiness was the best I had in Belfast, a proper creamer.”

• A

  Alex Brown

  ·7 months ago

  “Heard about this place so thought we'd try it out food was good and plentiful staff were friendly and Helpful restaurant is very nice and traditional 👌”

• J

  Jeremy Pace

  ·8 months ago

  “Located at Queen’s Square, McHugh’s Bar and Restaurant is a landmark that offers a rare connection to the city's origins. Occupying a building that dates back to 1711, it is officially the oldest surviving structure in Belfast. Stepping inside feels like navigating a living museum, as the building has been carefully restored to preserve its Georgian heritage while serving as a vibrant social hub. The Historical Setting The atmosphere at McHugh’s is defined by its deep historical roots. The interior features original brickwork, dark wood beams, and a collection of local art and artifacts that chronicle the city’s industrial past. Whether you are sitting by the open fire in the main bar or exploring the upper levels, the sense of age is palpable. It provides an authentic Irish pub experience that feels earned rather than manufactured, making it a favorite for both locals and travelers seeking a genuine "Old Belfast" vibe. Traditional Irish Flavors The menu is a celebration of classic regional cuisine with a focus on hearty, comforting dishes. A major highlight is the Boxty, a traditional Irish potato cake offered with various savory toppings. Other staples like the Atlantic seafood chowder and the slow cooked Irish stew are consistently excellent. The kitchen successfully balances these traditional favorites with more modern gastropub options, ensuring there is something for every palate. The Multi-Floor Experience McHugh’s utilizes its three floors to offer different experiences under one roof. The basement is a well-known venue for live folk and traditional music, providing a high-energy environment during the weekends. Conversely, the first-floor restaurant offers a more refined setting for a sit-down meal. This layout allows the establishment to function as both a quiet spot for a pint and a lively destination for a night out. Verdict: McHugh’s is an essential stop for anyone visiting Belfast. It manages to honor its 300-year history while remaining a relevant and welcoming part of the city's modern dining scene.”

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• E

  Eero Ahonen

  ·11 months ago

  “Been there at the Northern Ireland open breaks. Fish and chips went to table fast and it was hot and fresh. Fish was crispy outside and flaky inside. Very good and good salt too. Chips are pretty much same than everywhere in Belfast. Tangy malt vinegar on top and mushy peas alongside made this meal better than mediocre. Service is very friendly, fast and efficient. Nothing to complain. A well poured Guinness with food was spot on.”

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• I

  Ian McCutcheon (Travel World Adventures)

  ·1 year ago

  “Was looking for a good Sunday lunch in Belfast and saw a review for McHughs and thought we would try it. We didn’t have a booking and they managed to fit us in. The Sunday beef roast was fantastic alongside the Guinness. Highly recommended and will visit again when back in the city”

• A

  Alexander K

  ·3 years ago

  “Quiet for a Monday which was enjoyable, it’s a nice interior with two floors. The bartenders were very nice and had some food suggestions as well as beers and some things to do around city. I had the Irish meatballs and it was very good, the sauce was rich and hearty with two good pieces of bread. The Pilsner was very nice as well. Enjoyable spot to stop in right over the bridge.”

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