Waterman Restaurant: Belfast’s Contemporary European Dining Gem
Contemporary European dining in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, blending local produce with Michelin-recognized quality and a stylish, convivial atmosphere.
Waterman Restaurant, located in Belfast’s vibrant Cathedral Quarter, offers a modern European dining experience with a focus on local, seasonal produce. Awarded a Bib Gourmand in the 2025 Michelin Guide, it combines a stylish minimalist interior with a convivial atmosphere. The menu changes daily, featuring small plates and classic dishes, complemented by a curated wine list and local beverages. Its blend of quality cuisine and welcoming service makes it a notable culinary destination in Belfast.
A brief summary to Waterman Restaurant
- Waterman House, 5-23 Hill St, Belfast, BT1 2NG, GB
- +442890434310
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Wednesday 5 pm-9:30 pm
- Thursday 5 pm-9:30 pm
- Friday 12 pm-10:30 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-10:30 pm
- Sunday 1 pm-8 pm
Local tips
- Reserve your table in advance, especially for weekends, as Waterman is popular and has limited seating for larger groups.
- Try the Parmesan Truffle Fries, a highly recommended side that complements many main dishes.
- Visit on Wednesday or Thursday evenings for a quieter experience compared to the busy Friday and Saturday nights.
- Consider exploring the cookery school or event spaces if interested in culinary workshops or private dining.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Waterman Restaurant location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Waterman Restaurant
A Modern Culinary Landmark in Belfast
Waterman Restaurant opened in June 2022 as the latest venture by renowned Belfast chef Niall McKenna. Situated in the heart of the Cathedral Quarter, this restaurant is McKenna’s largest project to date, encompassing not only a dining room but also a cookery school and event spaces. The venue’s sleek, contemporary design features minimalist aesthetics that create a relaxed yet stylish environment, making it a standout destination for both casual diners and special occasions.Seasonal European Flavours with Local Roots
The kitchen, led by head chef Aaron McNeice, focuses on simple, modern dishes that highlight high-quality local ingredients. The menu is seasonally driven and changes daily, offering a variety of small plates and classic European-style dishes. Signature items often include tender steaks, fresh seafood, and inventive vegetable sides, all prepared with care and attention to flavour. The short, thoughtfully curated wine list, alongside local gins and beers, complements the food perfectly, enhancing the overall dining experience.Award-Winning Recognition and Service Excellence
Waterman earned a prestigious Bib Gourmand in the 2025 Michelin Guide, recognizing its combination of excellent food quality and good value. The front-of-house team, led by restaurant manager Sean White, is praised for delivering friendly, professional service with a sense of fun. While the atmosphere is lively and buzzing, the staff maintain attentiveness, ensuring guests feel well cared for during their visit.Atmosphere and Dining Experience
The restaurant’s interior is designed to balance modern minimalism with warmth, featuring clean lines and an open layout that encourages conviviality. Despite some reports of noise and a brisk dining pace during busy times, the overall vibe remains inviting and energetic. It is well suited for intimate dinners, group celebrations, and those seeking a refined yet approachable dining experience in Belfast’s cultural hub.Community and Culinary Impact
Waterman plays a significant role in Belfast’s evolving food scene, showcasing the city’s best local produce through contemporary European cuisine. Its integration of a cookery school and event spaces further enriches the community by fostering culinary education and hosting diverse gatherings. This multifaceted approach positions Waterman not just as a restaurant but as a vibrant culinary institution within the city.Notable Considerations for Visitors
While the restaurant offers high-quality food and service, some guests have noted the relatively small portion sizes and premium pricing. The dining experience can feel rushed during peak times due to table time limits. Nonetheless, the quality of ingredients, creative menu, and Michelin recognition make it a worthwhile destination for food enthusiasts exploring Belfast.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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A burst of colorful numbers and symbols celebrating Belfast's vibrant contemporary street art scene.
Castle Buildings
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Discover the architectural beauty and modern comforts of the Castle Buildings in Belfast, a perfect stay for any traveler.
Beacon of Hope
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A soaring symbol of peace and gratitude rising 19.5 meters above Belfast's heart.
Queen Elizabeth II Bridge
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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
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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
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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
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Discover the serene ambiance of The Back Of Boots in Belfast, a pilgrimage site steeped in history and spiritual significance.
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.
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.
DC Tours - Belfast Walking Tours
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Explore Belfast's rich history and vibrant culture with DC Tours, your premier walking tour agency for unforgettable sightseeing experiences.
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
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Baroque Revival masterpiece and civic heart of Belfast, where industrial heritage meets contemporary culture.
Unmissable attractions to see
Creative Tours Belfast
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Explore Belfast’s vibrant music scene on foot with expert guides, historic venues, and live performances in the UNESCO City of Music.
Harp Bar
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Harp Bar, Belfast's favorite pub for craft beers, live music, and authentic Irish hospitality.
Cathedral Quarter Belfast
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Belfast's creative heartland where Victorian grandeur meets contemporary street art and vibrant cultural expression.
Duke of York
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Experience the heart of Belfast's pub culture at Duke of York, a vibrant spot with rich history, local brews, and a warm atmosphere.
The Cloth Ear
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A cosy, unpretentious hotel pub inside The Merchant Hotel, offering classic pub dishes, local beers and a snug atmosphere in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
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.
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.
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
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Explore Northern Ireland’s WWII history through immersive exhibits, family activities, and heartfelt remembrance in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
The Spire Of Hope, Belfast
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A soaring 40-metre steel beacon of hope atop Belfast’s historic St Anne’s Cathedral, shining brightly across the city skyline.
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.
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.
High St
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High Street Belfast: Where historic charm meets vibrant shopping and lively city culture in the heart of Belfast.
Custom House Square
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Central Belfast’s vibrant square blending historic grandeur with lively festivals and cultural celebrations year-round.
The MAC
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Belfast's vibrant contemporary arts centre blending theatre, galleries, and café culture in a welcoming modern space.
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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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.
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 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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Experience authentic Indian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter at Mumbai 27.
Buba
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Bold Eastern Mediterranean small plates, flame-grilled meats and creative cocktails in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
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.
Dumpling Library
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Experience a vibrant Pan-Asian feast in Belfast’s unique Dumpling Library, where exquisite dumplings meet creative cocktails in intimate dining pods.
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.
Roam
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Discover Roam, Belfast’s intimate Irish restaurant blending classic flavors with modern flair in a stylish, welcoming setting.
OX Belfast
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Experience Belfast’s Michelin-starred gem offering inventive modern European tasting menus with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients in an elegant 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.
Forsight Belfast
0.3 km
Discover unique vintage fashion while supporting vital services for the visually impaired at ForSight Belfast’s charity shop.
Petty Kingdom Vintage Clothing & Records
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Discover curated vintage fashion and classic records in the heart of Belfast’s city centre at Petty Kingdom.
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.
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.
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.
White Stuff Belfast
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Top Gift
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FatFace
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Tommy Hilfiger
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Build-A-Bear Workshop
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Fossil Store Belfast
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Black Box
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The Dark Horse
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39 Gordon Street
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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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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
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Henry's
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A lively Belfast pub and restaurant blending historic charm with modern dining, live music, and a vibrant social scene.
The Jailhouse
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The Tipsy Bird
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Experience Belfast's vibrant nightlife at The Tipsy Bird, where creative cocktails meet a cozy atmosphere, perfect for every traveler seeking fun.
Bittles Bar
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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
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A cozy, quirky, dog-friendly bar in Belfast with great bottled beers, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Sunflower Public House
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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.
Revolución de Cuba Belfast
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Experience the vibrant spirit of Havana with Cuban cocktails, tapas, live salsa, and a stunning Art Nouveau setting in the heart of Belfast.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Club Lux
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Dive into Belfast's vibrant nightlife at Club Lux, the ultimate disco club and bar experience with electrifying music and great company.
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.
Ollie's Belfast
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A compact, late-night nightclub beneath The Merchant Hotel — brick-vaulted interiors, VIP booths and a focused dancefloor for weekend clubbing.
Kremlin
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Belfast's beating heart of gay nightlife: dance floors ablaze, cocktails flowing, and community vibes till dawn on Donegall Street.
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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A high-energy Belfast nightclub within the Kremlin complex, known for DJ nights, themed performances and lively late‑hour clubbing.
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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Energetic R&B nightclub with guest DJs, cocktails, and a lively terrace in Belfast’s vibrant Queen’s Quarter.
Scratch Nightclub
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Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Scratch Nightclub, where diverse music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable late-night memories.
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
14.1 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
- Relaxing
- Lively
- Scenic
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
