The Dirty Onion and Yardbird: Belfast’s Historic Irish Pub and Rotisserie Haven
Historic Belfast pub with lively Irish music downstairs and Yardbird’s famed rotisserie chicken upstairs in a rustic, vibrant setting.
Nestled in a historic 17th-century whiskey warehouse in Belfast’s vibrant city center, The Dirty Onion and Yardbird offers a lively Irish pub atmosphere downstairs with live traditional music and a rustic charm. Upstairs, Yardbird specializes in succulent rotisserie chicken, wings, ribs, and loaded fries, served in a warm, inviting setting blending historic character with modern touches. This mid-range venue is perfect for those seeking authentic local flavors alongside a spirited social scene.
A brief summary to The Dirty Onion and Yardbird
- 3 Hill St, Belfast, BT1 2LA, GB
- +442890243712
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-1 am
- Tuesday 12 pm-1 am
- Wednesday 12 pm-1 am
- Thursday 12 pm-1 am
- Friday 12 pm-1 am
- Saturday 12 pm-1 am
- Sunday 12 pm-12 am
Local tips
- Book a table in advance, especially on weekends, to secure a spot at Yardbird’s popular rotisserie chicken restaurant.
- Try the Spice Bag Loaded Fries for a flavorful twist on classic pub fare.
- Enjoy live traditional Irish music downstairs in The Dirty Onion’s bar for an authentic Belfast experience.
- Pair your meal with a pint of Guinness or one of the venue’s carefully selected craft beers.
- Visit during the afternoon for a relaxed atmosphere by the fire or later for vibrant nightlife energy.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Public Bus
Take the Metro bus routes 1A or 1B from Belfast city center, which run frequently and stop near Hill Street. The journey takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Tickets cost around £2.50. Services run regularly until late evening but check schedules for weekend variations.
-
Taxi
A taxi from Belfast city center to The Dirty Onion takes about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. Fares typically range from £6 to £10. Taxis are readily available throughout the city and provide convenient direct access.
-
Walking
If you are staying in central Belfast, The Dirty Onion is accessible on foot within 15-25 minutes via mostly flat, paved streets. The route passes through lively areas and is suitable for most walkers, though not wheelchair accessible due to some cobbled sections.
-
Train and Walk
From Belfast Central or Lanyon Place train stations, it is a 20-minute walk to The Dirty Onion. Trains from regional destinations arrive frequently. Walking involves urban streets with some uneven surfaces.
The Dirty Onion and Yardbird location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Cold Weather
Discover more about The Dirty Onion and Yardbird
A Historic Heartbeat in Belfast’s Old City
The Dirty Onion occupies one of Belfast’s oldest buildings, dating back to 1680, originally a whiskey warehouse. Its exposed brick walls, wooden beams, and rustic décor create an authentic atmosphere that echoes the city’s rich heritage. The pub’s downstairs area is renowned for its lively traditional Irish music sessions, fostering a vibrant social environment where locals and visitors mingle over pints of Guinness and craft beers.Yardbird: A Celebration of Rotisserie Chicken
Above the pub lies Yardbird, a dedicated rotisserie chicken restaurant known for its expertly cooked free-range chicken with a crispy exterior and tender inside. The menu is focused yet flavorful, featuring quarter, half, or whole chickens accompanied by a variety of sauces and sides such as loaded fries, avocado salad with chili vinaigrette, and smoky BBQ ribs. The Spice Bag Loaded Fries, topped with spiced chicken and IPA Hotbird sauce, are a standout dish.Ambiance and Culinary Experience
The ambiance combines warm, soft lighting and an open kitchen concept where guests can watch the chefs at work, enhancing the dining experience. The venue balances a historic charm with modern comfort, making it suitable for casual meals, lively nights out, or relaxed afternoons by the fire. The staff are known for their friendly and attentive service, contributing to the welcoming atmosphere.Live Music and Social Vibe
The Dirty Onion’s downstairs bar is a hub for live traditional Irish music, creating a lively and authentic cultural experience. The music sessions add a dynamic layer to the venue’s character, making it a favored spot for both locals and tourists seeking genuine Belfast nightlife with a historic twist.Accessibility and Visitor Information
Located at 3 Hill Street in Belfast’s city center, The Dirty Onion and Yardbird is easily accessible and open daily from noon until late evening. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, due to its popularity. The venue accommodates groups up to 12 people and offers a full bar with a wide selection of beers, wines, and spirits.Distinctive Features and Local Appeal
The combination of a historic setting, quality rotisserie chicken, and live Irish music makes The Dirty Onion and Yardbird a unique Belfast destination. It appeals to food lovers, culture enthusiasts, and those looking to immerse themselves in the city’s convivial pub scene, all while enjoying a taste of local culinary tradition.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
2-6 Waring St
0.1 km
Victorian banking masterpiece transformed into luxury hospitality on Belfast's historic mercantile street.
Albert Memorial Clock
0.2 km
Belfast’s iconic leaning Victorian clock tower, blending Gothic grandeur with rich industrial heritage and local character.
Numbers' Wall
0.2 km
A burst of colorful numbers and symbols celebrating Belfast's vibrant contemporary street art scene.
Castle Buildings
0.3 km
Discover the architectural beauty and modern comforts of the Castle Buildings in Belfast, a perfect stay for any traveler.
Beacon of Hope
0.4 km
A soaring symbol of peace and gratitude rising 19.5 meters above Belfast's heart.
Queen Elizabeth II Bridge
0.4 km
A 1960s road bridge over the River Lagan, connecting central Belfast with the Titanic Quarter and offering quiet riverside views from its pedestrian walkways.
Treasure Trails
0.5 km
Explore Belfast like never before with Treasure Trails, an interactive treasure hunt that uncovers the city's hidden gems and rich history.
Belfast Free Walking Tour
0.5 km
Discover the heart of Belfast with a free walking tour that unveils the city's history, culture, and hidden gems through the eyes of local guides.
The Back Of Boots
0.5 km
Discover the serene ambiance of The Back Of Boots in Belfast, a pilgrimage site steeped in history and spiritual significance.
Giant's Causeway Experiences
0.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich mythology of Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Northern Ireland, through guided tours and immersive experiences.
DC Tours - Belfast Walking Tours
0.6 km
Explore Belfast's rich history and vibrant culture with DC Tours, your premier walking tour agency for unforgettable sightseeing experiences.
If Buildings Could Talk - Belfast Walking Tour
0.6 km
Belfast’s grand civic heart, where Edwardian architecture meets city history in Donegall Square’s green heart.
Donegall Square N & Donegall Square W
0.6 km
Belfast's grand civic square, where Victorian architecture frames the city's industrial heritage and maritime history.
Mary Ann McCracken statue
0.6 km
Bronze monument to an abolitionist, feminist pioneer, and social reformer who stood for justice across three centuries.
Belfast City Hall Tours
0.6 km
Baroque Revival masterpiece and civic heart of Belfast, where industrial heritage meets contemporary culture.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cathedral Quarter Belfast
0.0 km
Belfast's creative heartland where Victorian grandeur meets contemporary street art and vibrant cultural expression.
Creative Tours Belfast
0.0 km
Explore Belfast’s vibrant music scene on foot with expert guides, historic venues, and live performances in the UNESCO City of Music.
The Cloth Ear
0.1 km
A cosy, unpretentious hotel pub inside The Merchant Hotel, offering classic pub dishes, local beers and a snug atmosphere in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
Harp Bar
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Harp Bar, Belfast's favorite pub for craft beers, live music, and authentic Irish hospitality.
Duke of York
0.1 km
Experience the heart of Belfast's pub culture at Duke of York, a vibrant spot with rich history, local brews, and a warm atmosphere.
Cathedral Quarter Moural
0.1 km
Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter blends historic charm with vibrant street art, world-class culture, and lively nightlife in a uniquely creative urban district.
Commercial Court
0.1 km
Discover Belfast’s historic Commercial Court, a vibrant cobbled alley alive with colourful murals, lively pubs, and rich mercantile heritage.
Trade union mural
0.1 km
A vibrant mural in Belfast celebrating the city’s proud labor history and the enduring spirit of trade union solidarity.
Northern Ireland War Memorial Museum
0.1 km
Explore Northern Ireland’s WWII history through immersive exhibits, family activities, and heartfelt remembrance in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
The Spirit Circle: Sensorium & Belfast by the Glass
0.1 km
Interactive sensory cocktail experience in Belfast's heart, where taste meets discovery and every drink tells a story.
High St
0.2 km
High Street Belfast: Where historic charm meets vibrant shopping and lively city culture in the heart of Belfast.
Custom House Square
0.2 km
Central Belfast’s vibrant square blending historic grandeur with lively festivals and cultural celebrations year-round.
The Spire Of Hope, Belfast
0.2 km
A soaring 40-metre steel beacon of hope atop Belfast’s historic St Anne’s Cathedral, shining brightly across the city skyline.
Belfast Cathedral, the Cathedral Church of St Anne
0.2 km
Discover Belfast Cathedral’s Romanesque beauty, historic mosaics, and the soaring Spire of Hope in the heart of the city’s vibrant Cathedral Quarter.
GoT To Escape - Game of Thrones Escape Rooms
0.2 km
Immerse yourself in thrilling Game of Thrones escape rooms in Belfast’s historic Church Lane, where teamwork and clever puzzles await.
Essential places to dine
Waterman Restaurant
0.0 km
Discover Waterman Restaurant, Belfast’s Michelin-recognized spot for seasonal European cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting with local charm.
The Thirsty Goat Belfast
0.0 km
Discover Belfast's vibrant culinary scene at The Thirsty Goat, where delicious grilled dishes meet an extensive beverage selection.
Six By Nico Belfast
0.1 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant Six By Nico, where inventive six-course tasting menus transform culinary themes into unforgettable dining adventures.
The Muddlers Club Restaurant
0.1 km
Michelin-starred modern European dining in Belfast’s historic Cathedral Quarter, blending local flavors with a stylish industrial atmosphere.
The Great Room Restaurant, Belfast
0.1 km
Experience Belfast’s finest Victorian dining beneath Ireland’s largest chandelier with exquisite local cuisine and impeccable service.
Mumbai 27
0.1 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter at Mumbai 27.
The Northern Whig
0.1 km
Experience the best of Belfast dining at The Northern Whig, where traditional flavors meet modern culinary art in an inviting atmosphere.
Buba
0.2 km
Bold Eastern Mediterranean small plates, flame-grilled meats and creative cocktails in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
Dumpling Library
0.2 km
Experience a vibrant Pan-Asian feast in Belfast’s unique Dumpling Library, where exquisite dumplings meet creative cocktails in intimate dining pods.
Coppi Restaurant
0.2 km
Modern Venetian-inspired Italian dining in Belfast’s Saint Anne's Square with vibrant cicchetti, fresh ingredients, and a lively atmosphere.
Taylor & Clay
0.2 km
Award-winning Belfast steakhouse with a bespoke wood-fired Asador grill, serving premium local meats and seasonal dishes in a vibrant city-centre setting.
Bootleggers
0.3 km
Step into Belfast’s Bootleggers for bold American flavors, original cocktails, and a lively speakeasy vibe inspired by 1920s Prohibition.
Academy Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience the best of Modern European cuisine at Academy Restaurant in Belfast, where local ingredients meet innovative culinary artistry.
OX Belfast
0.4 km
Experience Belfast’s Michelin-starred gem offering inventive modern European tasting menus with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients in an elegant setting.
Roam
0.4 km
Discover Roam, Belfast’s intimate Irish restaurant blending classic flavors with modern flair in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Art Loves at The Merchant
0.1 km
Discover a curated emporium of art-led gifts and homewares within Belfast’s iconic Merchant Hotel, celebrating creativity and craftsmanship.
Young Savage - Vintage Clothing, Records and Books
0.2 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant vintage gem offering unique clothing, rare records, and curated books in a welcoming, multi-floor cultural haven.
Petty Kingdom Vintage Clothing & Records
0.3 km
Discover curated vintage fashion and classic records in the heart of Belfast’s city centre at Petty Kingdom.
Forsight Belfast
0.3 km
Discover unique vintage fashion while supporting vital services for the visually impaired at ForSight Belfast’s charity shop.
Urban Outfitters
0.3 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Belfast on Ann Street — where cutting-edge fashion meets creative lifestyle in Northern Ireland’s vibrant capital.
Born and Bred
0.3 km
Explore Born and Bred in Belfast for unique Irish gifts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of Northern Ireland.
Søstrene Grene
0.3 km
Discover Scandinavian charm and creativity at Søstrene Grene Belfast, your cozy craft and home decor destination in the city center.
Carrolls Irish Gifts - Belfast
0.3 km
Discover authentic Irish treasures at Carrolls Irish Gifts in Belfast's bustling Castle Place—a shopper's haven for Claddagh rings, Aran knits, Guinness gear, and gourmet hampers evoking the Emerald Isle's timeless charm.
Fuzz Vintage
0.3 km
Unearth timeless retro treasures at Fuzz Vintage, where Belfast's Rosemary Street hides eclectic clothing from decades past in a shopper's paradise of sustainable style.
White Stuff Belfast
0.3 km
Discover stylish, sustainable fashion for all ages at White Stuff Belfast, where quality meets conscious design in the city centre.
FatFace
0.4 km
Alpine-inspired casual wear and outdoor lifestyle fashion in Belfast's premier shopping destination.
Tommy Hilfiger
0.4 km
Discover classic American style with a modern twist at Tommy Hilfiger, nestled in Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square shopping centre.
Build-A-Bear Workshop
0.4 km
Create your own stuffed friend in an interactive workshop experience at Belfast's Victoria Square.
Fossil Store Belfast
0.4 km
Discover timeless American vintage-inspired watches and accessories in the heart of Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
Replay Store Belfast
0.4 km
Discover stylish Italian-designed denim and casual wear at Replay Store Belfast, nestled in the vibrant Victoria Square shopping center.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Black Box
0.0 km
Belfast's intimate arts hub: live music, comedy, theatre, and casual bar vibes in a historic townhouse setting.
39 Gordon Street
0.1 km
Vibrant Cathedral Quarter cocktail bar pulsing with live music, craft drinks, and tasty tacos in Belfast's historic heart.
The Dark Horse
0.1 km
Quirky Cathedral Quarter pub with historic artifacts, poetic courtyard, Game of Thrones door, and superb drinks amid Belfast's cobbled charm.
The Spaniard
0.1 km
A cozy, quirky pub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, famed for its lively music, extensive rum selection, and intimate atmosphere.
Bert's Jazz Bar
0.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Bert's Jazz Bar in Belfast, where live music, exceptional cocktails, and delectable cuisine create an unforgettable experience.
Ulster Sports Club
0.1 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Ulster Sports Club, Belfast's top sports bar, offering delicious food, live music, and an electric ambiance.
The National
0.1 km
Victorian grandeur meets modern Belfast buzz in this multi-bar haven for all-day eats, drinks, and live tunes on lively High Street.
Monico Bars
0.2 km
Classic Belfast pub on Lombard Street pouring pints, serving stews, and screening sports in a lively city-center haven.
Henry's
0.3 km
A lively Belfast pub and restaurant blending historic charm with modern dining, live music, and a vibrant social scene.
The Jailhouse
0.3 km
Historic Belfast pub blending vintage charm with lively cocktails and hearty fare in a character-filled setting at Joy’s Entry.
The Tipsy Bird
0.3 km
Experience Belfast's vibrant nightlife at The Tipsy Bird, where creative cocktails meet a cozy atmosphere, perfect for every traveler seeking fun.
Bittles Bar
0.4 km
Discover Belfast’s iconic flatiron-shaped pub, Bittles Bar, where rich Irish culture, history, and a curated whiskey selection blend in a cozy, historic setting.
The Reporter. Bar
0.4 km
A cozy, quirky, dog-friendly bar in Belfast with great bottled beers, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Revolución de Cuba Belfast
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Havana with Cuban cocktails, tapas, live salsa, and a stunning Art Nouveau setting in the heart of Belfast.
Sunflower Public House
0.4 km
Belfast's authentic corner pub with Troubles-era charm, live music nightly, wood-fired pizzas, and a buzzing garden—where history meets hearty ales and eclectic vibes.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Ollie's Belfast
0.1 km
A compact, late-night nightclub beneath The Merchant Hotel — brick-vaulted interiors, VIP booths and a focused dancefloor for weekend clubbing.
Club Lux
0.1 km
Dive into Belfast's vibrant nightlife at Club Lux, the ultimate disco club and bar experience with electrifying music and great company.
Craics Ninety
0.1 km
A compact, high‑energy clubnight in Belfast’s Common Market that celebrates 1990s music with DJs, themed entertainment and a pulsing dance atmosphere.
Kremlin
0.4 km
Belfast's beating heart of gay nightlife: dance floors ablaze, cocktails flowing, and community vibes till dawn on Donegall Street.
Shoe Factory
0.4 km
Experience the lively and inclusive nightlife at Shoe Factory, Belfast's top gay nightclub, where music, dance, and celebration come together.
Boombox Belfast
0.4 km
A lively and inclusive gay nightclub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, renowned for drag shows, DJ nights, and a welcoming queer atmosphere.
Anthology Ni
0.4 km
A high-energy Belfast nightclub within the Kremlin complex, known for DJ nights, themed performances and lively late‑hour clubbing.
The Art Department
0.4 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
Voodoo
0.5 km
Experience the electric atmosphere of Voodoo, Belfast's top night club, featuring live music, great drinks, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Cabaret Supper Club
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Cabaret Supper Club, where exquisite dining meets captivating performances for an unforgettable experience.
Thompsons Garage
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Thompsons Garage, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await every night.
Alibi
1.5 km
Energetic R&B nightclub with guest DJs, cocktails, and a lively terrace in Belfast’s vibrant Queen’s Quarter.
Scratch Nightclub
1.6 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Scratch Nightclub, where diverse music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable late-night memories.
Club Honey
2.4 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Club Honey, where energetic music and lively crowds create unforgettable nights on Falls Road.
Saturday Night Nightclub
14.0 km
Experience the vibrant pulse of Newtownards nightlife at Saturday Night Nightclub, where music, dancing, and social energy come alive.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Relaxing
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
