The Dirty Onion & Yardbird — Cathedral Quarter pub and rotisserie
A characterful Cathedral Quarter pub with a large beer garden and Yardbird’s rotisserie chicken kitchen upstairs — music, whiskey and hearty plates.
A multi-level Belfast venue that pairs a characterful, timber‑lined Irish pub with Yardbird’s rotisserie chicken kitchen upstairs. Housed in a centuries‑old building in the Cathedral Quarter, it’s known for nightly live music, a large cobbled beer garden, an extensive whiskey and beer selection and casual plates such as loaded fries, ribs and roast chicken. Warm interiors, an open rotisserie and convivial atmosphere make it a reliable spot for drinks and hearty sharing food.
A brief summary to The Dirty Onion and Yardbird
- 3 Hill St, Belfast, BT1 2LA, GB
- +442890243712
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Mixed
- 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 ahead for evening meals upstairs at Yardbird, especially on weekends; the rotisserie service and shared plates suit groups.
- If you prefer a quieter visit, arrive earlier in the afternoon; nights often feature live music and a louder, busier atmosphere.
- Try a combination plate (chicken, ribs and loaded fries) to sample the rotisserie and signature sides; ask staff about gluten‑free options if you have allergies.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
The Dirty Onion and Yardbird location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about The Dirty Onion and Yardbird
Old‑walls, modern pulse
The Dirty Onion occupies one of the older buildings in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, where exposed brick, heavy timber and a solid wood bar mix with eclectic vintage fittings to create a layered, lived‑in atmosphere. The ground‑floor bar emphasises warmth: low lighting, a roaring fire in colder months and mismatched seating grouped around small tables so the room reads as comfortably ramshackle rather than styled‑perfect.A two‑part hospitality concept
Downstairs is a classic pub environment — draught lines, a focused whiskey list and a sense that music might begin at any moment — while upstairs Yardbird operates as a rotisserie kitchen specialising in whole and portioned chickens, ribs, wings and generous loaded fries. The two spaces feel distinct but complementary, so you can drop in for an after‑work pint or sit upstairs for a meal centred on spit‑roasted flavours.Garden and live music life
A surprisingly large, cobbled beer garden at the rear expands the venue’s footprint outdoors; in fair weather it becomes a social hub with long tables and a convivial beer‑garden vibe. Live music and sessions are a regular feature, bringing traditional tunes, acoustic sets and occasional contemporary bands that feed the pub’s lively evening energy without changing its fundamentally friendly character.Food and drink character
Menus are unpretentious and designed for sharing: rotisserie bird served with sides, ribs and wing plates, and indulgent loaded fries with rich sauces and toppings. The drink list balances mainstream draughts with local and craft beers and a wide range of whiskies and bourbons, which suits both casual drinkers and those browsing a dedicated spirits selection.Practical quirks to expect
The layout—multiple levels, dim interiors and a busy garden—creates varied seating experiences and acoustic conditions: lively and sometimes loud evenings are normal, while earlier daylight hours can feel calmer. Lighting is intentionally moody, which contributes to atmosphere but can make reading menus or photographing food more challenging.Local role and atmosphere
Set amid cobbled streets and creative businesses of the Cathedral Quarter, the venue serves neighborhood regulars, music‑seekers and diners who favour relaxed, hearty food. The combination of historic fabric, live music programming and Yardbird’s rotisserie kitchen gives the place a layered identity: both a traditional Belfast pub and a modern casual‑dining spot focused on robust flavours and sociable dining.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
2-6 Waring St
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Albert Memorial Clock
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Numbers' Wall
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Castle Buildings
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Beacon of Hope
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Queen Elizabeth II Bridge
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Treasure Trails
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Belfast Free Walking Tour
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The Back Of Boots
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Giant's Causeway Experiences
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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
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If Buildings Could Talk - Belfast Walking Tour
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Belfast’s grand civic heart, where Edwardian architecture meets city history in Donegall Square’s green heart.
Donegall Square N & Donegall Square W
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Belfast's grand civic square, where Victorian architecture frames the city's industrial heritage and maritime history.
Mary Ann McCracken statue
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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
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Belfast's creative heartland where Victorian grandeur meets contemporary street art and vibrant cultural expression.
Creative Tours Belfast
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The Cloth Ear
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Harp Bar
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Duke of York
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Cathedral Quarter Moural
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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
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Discover Belfast’s historic Commercial Court, a vibrant cobbled alley alive with colourful murals, lively pubs, and rich mercantile heritage.
Trade union mural
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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
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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
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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
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Discover Waterman Restaurant, Belfast’s Michelin-recognized spot for seasonal European cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting with local charm.
The Thirsty Goat Belfast
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Six By Nico Belfast
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Discover Belfast’s vibrant Six By Nico, where inventive six-course tasting menus transform culinary themes into unforgettable dining adventures.
The Muddlers Club Restaurant
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Michelin-starred modern European dining in Belfast’s historic Cathedral Quarter, blending local flavors with a stylish industrial atmosphere.
The Great Room Restaurant, Belfast
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Experience Belfast’s finest Victorian dining beneath Ireland’s largest chandelier with exquisite local cuisine and impeccable service.
Mumbai 27
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The Northern Whig
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Experience the best of Belfast dining at The Northern Whig, where traditional flavors meet modern culinary art in an inviting atmosphere.
Buba
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Dumpling Library
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Coppi Restaurant
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Modern Venetian-inspired Italian dining in Belfast’s Saint Anne's Square with vibrant cicchetti, fresh ingredients, and a lively atmosphere.
Taylor & Clay
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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
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Step into Belfast’s Bootleggers for bold American flavors, original cocktails, and a lively speakeasy vibe inspired by 1920s Prohibition.
Academy Restaurant
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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
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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
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Discover Scandinavian charm and creativity at Søstrene Grene Belfast, your cozy craft and home decor destination in the city center.
Carrolls Irish Gifts - Belfast
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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
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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
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Discover stylish, sustainable fashion for all ages at White Stuff Belfast, where quality meets conscious design in the city centre.
FatFace
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Alpine-inspired casual wear and outdoor lifestyle fashion in Belfast's premier shopping destination.
Tommy Hilfiger
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Discover classic American style with a modern twist at Tommy Hilfiger, nestled in Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square shopping centre.
Build-A-Bear Workshop
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Fossil Store Belfast
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Replay Store Belfast
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Black Box
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39 Gordon Street
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The Dark Horse
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The Spaniard
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Bert's Jazz Bar
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Ulster Sports Club
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The National
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Monico Bars
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Henry's
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The Jailhouse
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The Tipsy Bird
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Bittles Bar
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The Reporter. Bar
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Revolución de Cuba Belfast
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Sunflower Public House
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Ollie's Belfast
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Club Lux
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Craics Ninety
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A compact, high‑energy clubnight in Belfast’s Common Market that celebrates 1990s music with DJs, themed entertainment and a pulsing dance atmosphere.
Kremlin
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Shoe Factory
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Experience the lively and inclusive nightlife at Shoe Factory, Belfast's top gay nightclub, where music, dance, and celebration come together.
Boombox Belfast
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A lively and inclusive gay nightclub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, renowned for drag shows, DJ nights, and a welcoming queer atmosphere.
Anthology Ni
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The Art Department
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Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
Voodoo
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Experience the electric atmosphere of Voodoo, Belfast's top night club, featuring live music, great drinks, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Cabaret Supper Club
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Discover the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Cabaret Supper Club, where exquisite dining meets captivating performances for an unforgettable experience.
Thompsons Garage
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Experience the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Thompsons Garage, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await every night.
Alibi
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Scratch Nightclub
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Club Honey
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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
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Quirky
- Casual
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
