The Rusty Saddle: Belfast’s Vibrant Grill and Bar Experience
A lively Belfast grill and bar blending hearty Irish cuisine with vibrant music and a welcoming atmosphere.
Located at 21 Howard Street in Belfast, The Rusty Saddle is a lively grill and restaurant offering generous portions of classic Irish dishes, including expertly cooked steaks and hearty sharing platters. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, live music, and friendly staff, it blends traditional Irish culture with a modern twist, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike seeking quality food and vibrant nightlife.
A brief summary to The Rusty Saddle
- 21 Howard St, Belfast, BT1 6NB, GB
- +442890323313
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-12 am
- Tuesday 12 pm-12 am
- Wednesday 12 pm-12 am
- Thursday 12 pm-12 am
- Friday 12 pm-1 am
- Saturday 12 pm-1 am
- Sunday 12 pm-1 am
Local tips
- Try the perfectly cooked steaks and generous sharing platters for a true taste of Irish grill cuisine.
- Visit during live music nights to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere without overwhelming noise.
- Be prepared for moderately priced drinks; the bar offers a wide selection including local favorites.
- Service can vary, so a friendly approach to staff often enhances your experience.
- The venue stays open late on weekends, making it ideal for late-night dining and socializing.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
The Rusty Saddle location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Rusty Saddle
A Hub of Irish Culinary Tradition and Modern Flair
The Rusty Saddle stands out in Belfast’s city center as a grill and bar that celebrates Irish culinary heritage with a contemporary edge. Its menu features a variety of hearty dishes, with a particular emphasis on perfectly cooked steaks and generous sharing platters that showcase local ingredients. The food is designed to satisfy, combining traditional flavors with a modern presentation that appeals to a broad audience.Atmosphere and Ambience That Captures Belfast’s Spirit
This venue offers a lively yet relaxed environment with comfortable seating and a warm interior. Live music often enhances the experience, creating a vibrant backdrop without overwhelming conversation. The décor mixes rustic and modern elements, reflecting Belfast’s blend of history and contemporary culture. The Rusty Saddle is known for its welcoming vibe, making it a favored spot for both casual dining and social gatherings.Service and Staff: Friendly Yet Varied Experiences
The staff at The Rusty Saddle are generally praised for their friendliness and helpfulness, often providing personal recommendations to enhance your meal. However, experiences can vary, with some reports of inconsistent service and occasional issues with staff uniformity and attentiveness. Despite this, many guests appreciate the attentive and relaxed service style that complements the venue’s casual atmosphere.Drink Selection and Bar Highlights
The Rusty Saddle boasts an extensive drink menu, including a selection of local and international beers, with a particular focus on Irish favorites like Guinness and Tennents on tap. The bar is lively and well-stocked, catering to a diverse crowd. While the drink prices are considered moderate to slightly higher than average, the quality and variety contribute to the overall appeal.Location and Accessibility in Belfast’s City Center
Situated on Howard Street, The Rusty Saddle benefits from a central location easily accessible from many parts of Belfast. Its proximity to other nightlife and cultural attractions makes it an ideal stop for an evening out or a weekend gathering. The venue’s extended opening hours, often staying open past midnight on weekends, cater well to night owls and those seeking a late-night dining and drinking experience.Challenges and Considerations for Visitors
While The Rusty Saddle offers a compelling mix of food, drink, and atmosphere, some visitors note challenges such as occasional crowd management issues, the presence of bouncers with strict policies, and variability in food and drink quality. The interior lighting can be on the darker side, which may affect the ambiance for some. Overall, it remains a distinctive Belfast venue that combines traditional Irish hospitality with a modern social scene.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mary Ann McCracken statue
0.1 km
Bronze monument to an abolitionist, feminist pioneer, and social reformer who stood for justice across three centuries.
Frederick Temple Memorial
0.2 km
A striking bronze tribute to Lord Dufferin, reflecting Belfast’s imperial heritage and the legacy of a renowned British diplomat.
Donegall Square N & Donegall Square W
0.2 km
Belfast's grand civic square, where Victorian architecture frames the city's industrial heritage and maritime history.
Belfast City Hall Tours
0.2 km
Baroque Revival masterpiece and civic heart of Belfast, where industrial heritage meets contemporary culture.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Castle Buildings
0.4 km
Discover the architectural beauty and modern comforts of the Castle Buildings in Belfast, a perfect stay for any traveler.
2-6 Waring St
0.7 km
Victorian banking masterpiece transformed into luxury hospitality on Belfast's historic mercantile street.
Alec the Goose
0.7 km
A bronze tribute to a beloved 1920s goose who walked schoolchildren to school in East Belfast.
Numbers' Wall
0.7 km
A burst of colorful numbers and symbols celebrating Belfast's vibrant contemporary street art scene.
Shaftesbury Square
0.7 km
A historic and bustling junction in Belfast where Victorian heritage meets vibrant modern city life.
Unmissable attractions to see
Memorial to World War I and II soldiers
0.1 km
A solemn Portland stone cenotaph in Belfast’s Donegall Square honoring the heroic sacrifices of World War I and II soldiers.
Donegall Square W
0.1 km
Historic heart of Belfast featuring City Hall, iconic architecture, the Titanic Memorial, and stories of commerce and heritage.
City Hall Garden of Remembrance
0.1 km
A tranquil memorial garden honouring those who gave their lives for Irish freedom, nestled in Belfast's historic city centre.
Hop On Hop Off Belfast Bus
0.1 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant history and culture at your own pace with an open-top hop-on hop-off bus tour featuring live guides and panoramic city views.
Belfast City Sightseeing
0.1 km
Discover Belfast’s heritage and vibrant culture aboard an open-top hop-on hop-off bus with live guides and flexible 1- or 2-day tickets.
Fibber Magee
0.2 km
Experience the heart of Belfast at Fibber Magee, a traditional Irish pub offering delicious food, local brews, and vibrant entertainment.
Royal Ulster Rifles Regimental Museum
0.2 km
Explore the rich military history of Northern Ireland at the Royal Ulster Rifles Regimental Museum, a captivating tribute to bravery and sacrifice.
Belfast City Hall
0.2 km
Discover Belfast’s majestic City Hall, a Baroque Revival masterpiece and vibrant civic heart with rich history and stunning architecture.
Robinsons Bar
0.2 km
Discover Robinsons Bar in Belfast: a lively pub offering local brews, delicious food, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for tourists and locals alike.
Visit Belfast
0.2 km
Your essential first stop in Belfast city centre for expert travel advice, tickets, maps, and local insights opposite City Hall.
The Linen Hall
0.2 km
Belfast's independent cultural sanctuary housing rare collections, world-class exhibitions, and mythology-inspired café.
Ulster Hall
0.2 km
Belfast’s iconic Victorian concert hall blending rich history, legendary performances, and vibrant cultural life since 1862.
Walking Tours Belfast
0.2 km
Expert-led walking tours of Belfast's history, culture, and urban landscape by Blue Badge qualified local guides.
Front of Belfast City Hall
0.2 km
Experience Belfast’s iconic Baroque Revival masterpiece and vibrant civic heart at the stunning Front of City Hall.
Belfastology Walking Tours
0.2 km
Discover Belfast through the passionate eyes of locals who know every corner, story, and hidden gem.
Essential places to dine
The Rusty Saddle
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Experience the best grilled dishes at The Rusty Saddle in Belfast - where flavor meets atmosphere in a delightful dining experience.
Deanes EIPIC
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Yügo
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JAMES ST
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Stix and Stones City Centre
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Interactive steakhouse where you cook premium beef on heated stones at your table in vibrant Belfast.
Actons restaurant
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Belfast's premier gluten-free dining destination with exceptional Irish cuisine and dedicated celiac protocols.
EDO Restaurant
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Discover the best of modern European tapas at EDO Restaurant in Belfast - where flavor meets creativity.
Howard Street
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Elegant modern European dining in Belfast’s vibrant city center, blending Irish tradition with contemporary flair.
Home Restaurant
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Flame
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Coco
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The Lantern Restaurant
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Parisien
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The Chubby Cherub
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Hope Street Restaurant Belfast
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Norn Irish Gift Shop
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Explore the heart of Irish culture at Norn Irish Gift Shop in Belfast, where unique souvenirs and artisan crafts await every traveler.
Carrolls Irish Gifts Belfast - Donegall Place
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Discover authentic Irish culture and unique souvenirs at Carrolls Irish Gifts, a vibrant shop in Belfast’s bustling Donegall Place.
Great Northern Mall
0.3 km
Belfast's essential retail passage where shopping meets urban culture and community connection.
Little Heart
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Discover heartfelt wire art and whimsical keepsakes in Belfast's sole Victorian arcade—a boutique gem blending heritage charm with personal creativity.
Montblanc Boutique Belfast
0.3 km
German luxury craftsmanship in Belfast's Victorian arcade—where timeless elegance meets artisanal mastery.
Mooch Belfast - Arthur Street
0.3 km
Discover Belfast's creative heart at Mooch: unique local crafts, handmade treasures, and artisan gifts that bring Northern Ireland home with you.
The Holy Shop
0.4 km
Belfast's cherished repository of rosaries, christening gifts, and spiritual treasures beside the city's mother church on historic Chapel Lane.
White Stuff Belfast
0.4 km
Discover stylish, sustainable fashion for all ages at White Stuff Belfast, where quality meets conscious design in the city centre.
Carrolls Irish Gifts - Belfast
0.4 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.
FatFace
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Alpine-inspired casual wear and outdoor lifestyle fashion in Belfast's premier shopping destination.
Replay Store Belfast
0.5 km
Discover stylish Italian-designed denim and casual wear at Replay Store Belfast, nestled in the vibrant Victoria Square shopping center.
AllSaints
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Discover edgy, contemporary fashion and premium leather goods at AllSaints Belfast in Victoria Square, a stylish destination for modern wardrobe essentials.
Build-A-Bear Workshop
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Create your own stuffed friend in an interactive workshop experience at Belfast's Victoria Square.
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.
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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Broken shaker Belfast
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The Perch Rooftop Bar
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Pug Uglys
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Margot
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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.
Nancy Mulligans Bar & Kitchen
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A lively Belfast gastropub blending traditional Irish hospitality with live music, hearty food, and spirited sports viewing.
The Garrick
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Authentic Victorian charm meets lively traditional music and hearty food in Belfast’s beloved Garrick Bar.
Limelight Lounge
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Discover the excitement of live music and vibrant nightlife at Limelight Lounge, Belfast's premier bar for entertainment and good vibes.
Filthy McNastys
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Filthy McNastys: The Heart of Belfast's Nightlife with Live Music, Great Drinks, and Unforgettable Experiences Awaiting You.
Maddens
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Discover the authentic charm of Maddens, a traditional Irish pub in Belfast known for its welcoming atmosphere and delightful local brews.
The Points
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A warm, old-school Dublin Road pub with regular live music, a glowing log fire and an unpretentious atmosphere for evening sessions.
Monico Bars
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Classic Belfast pub on Lombard Street pouring pints, serving stews, and screening sports in a lively city-center haven.
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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Historic Belfast pub blending vintage charm with lively cocktails and hearty fare in a character-filled setting at Joy’s Entry.
Bittles Bar
0.6 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Relaxing
- Fun-filled
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- 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
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
