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Bert's Jazz Bar

Belfast's sole live jazz sanctuary: nightly tunes, French bistro bites, and cocktails in Merchant Hotel's elegant embrace.

4.6

Nestled within Belfast's luxurious Merchant Hotel in the vibrant Cathedral Quarter, Bert's Jazz Bar stands as the city's premier live jazz venue. This intimate spot offers nightly performances by top local musicians, paired with a French bistro menu, craft cocktails, and an atmosphere blending historic elegance with sophisticated nightlife. Open evenings with live music seven nights a week, it draws jazz aficionados and casual revelers alike for an unforgettable night out in the heart of Belfast.

A brief summary to Bert's Jazz Bar

  • 16 Skipper St, Belfast, BT1 2DZ, GB
  • +442890262713
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
  • Luxury
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
  • Monday 5 pm-12 am
  • Tuesday 5 pm-12 am
  • Wednesday 5 pm-12 am
  • Thursday 5 pm-12 am
  • Friday 4 pm-12 am
  • Saturday 12 pm-1 am
  • Sunday 12 pm-12 am

Local tips

  • Reserve tables ahead for peak nights, especially weekends, to secure prime stage views.
  • Opt for the French bistro specials paired with live sets for a full sensory experience.
  • Dress smart-casual to match the sophisticated vibe without feeling overdressed.
  • Arrive early on Sundays for daytime jazz and a more laid-back crowd.
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Discover more about Bert's Jazz Bar

Jazz Heart of Cathedral Quarter

Tucked into the opulent Merchant Hotel on Skipper Street, Bert's Jazz Bar pulses with the rhythm of Belfast's nightlife. This dedicated jazz venue, the only one of its kind in the city, features live performances every night by exceptional local talent. The bar's intimate setting, with dim lighting and plush seating, creates an immersive space where the smooth tones of saxophones and upright basses fill the air, evoking the golden age of jazz clubs. Originally part of the hotel's 2006 transformation from a Victorian bank headquarters, Bert's preserves the building's Grade A listed grandeur while adding modern flair. High ceilings and ornate details from the 1860s structure frame the stage, blending heritage with contemporary cool.

Live Music Legacy

Bert's commitment to live jazz sets it apart, hosting seven nights of performances weekly. Talented musicians from Northern Ireland's jazz scene take the stage, delivering sets that range from classic standards to innovative improvisations. The venue's acoustics enhance every note, making it a haven for enthusiasts who appreciate the raw energy of unamplified performances. The bar's history ties into Belfast's cultural revival, emerging as a cornerstone of the Cathedral Quarter's artistic scene. Surrounded by cobbled streets and historic sites like St. Anne's Cathedral, it offers a sophisticated escape amid the quarter's lively buzz.

Culinary Notes and Cocktails

Complementing the music is a French bistro-inspired menu featuring decadent dishes like steak frites, seafood specials, and indulgent desserts. Crafted with local ingredients, the fare emphasizes flavor and presentation, perfect for sharing during sets. The cocktail list shines with award-winning mixes from the hotel's renowned bar team, including signature jazz-themed libations that nod to musical icons. Seating options range from candlelit tables to the bar for a more interactive vibe, with the hum of conversation providing a gentle backdrop to the music.

Atmospheric Allure

Step inside to discover velvet tones, polished wood, and subtle Art Deco accents that mirror the hotel's dual heritage. The air carries scents of espresso and citrus peels from fresh garnishes, while the low murmur of patrons builds anticipation before each set begins. It's a space where time slows, inviting lingering over drinks as the night unfolds.

Nightly Rhythm

From sultry Thursday evenings to vibrant weekends, Bert's schedule ensures consistent entertainment. Sunday afternoons offer a relaxed prelude with earlier openings, transitioning seamlessly into evening magic. The bar's role in Belfast's social fabric makes it a staple for locals and visitors seeking authentic cultural immersion.

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