The Great Room Restaurant at The Merchant Hotel, Belfast
Experience exquisite fine dining beneath Ireland’s largest chandelier in Belfast’s stunning Victorian Merchant Hotel.
Set within the opulent Merchant Hotel, The Great Room Restaurant offers fine dining in a stunning Victorian banking hall adorned with Ireland's largest chandelier. Renowned for its elegant ambiance, exceptional service, and menus showcasing the finest seasonal Northern Irish produce, it features lavish tasting menus, classic European dishes, and traditional afternoon tea. This celebrated venue blends historic grandeur with culinary excellence for memorable dining experiences in Belfast’s city centre.
A brief summary to The Great Room Restaurant, Belfast
- 16 Skipper St, Belfast, BT1 2DY, GB
- +442890234888
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Luxury
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 7 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-10 pm
- Thursday 7 am-10 pm
- Friday 7 am-10:30 pm
- Saturday 7 am-10:30 pm
- Sunday 7 am-8:30 pm
Local tips
- Book well in advance, especially for weekend dinners and the popular traditional afternoon tea.
- Try the tasting menu for a comprehensive showcase of seasonal local ingredients.
- Enjoy afternoon tea accompanied by live piano music on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
- Inform staff of any dietary restrictions; the kitchen accommodates vegetarian, gluten-free, and nut-free needs.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Great Room Restaurant, Belfast location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Great Room Restaurant, Belfast
Architectural Grandeur and Historic Setting
The Great Room Restaurant is housed in the former main banking hall of The Merchant Hotel, a magnificent Victorian building in Belfast’s city centre. The space is defined by its soaring glass cupola and Ireland’s largest chandelier, suspended above ornate marble columns and intricate plasterwork. This lavish setting evokes timeless grandeur and offers a dramatic backdrop that elevates every dining occasion. The Victorian interior’s rich red velvet and gilded detailing create an atmosphere of refined elegance rarely matched in Northern Ireland.Culinary Excellence Rooted in Local Ingredients
Under the guidance of Head Chef John Paul Leake, the kitchen crafts menus that celebrate the finest seasonal produce sourced from over a dozen local suppliers. The restaurant’s offerings range from lavish six-course tasting menus with expertly matched wines to à la carte dishes inspired by classic European cuisine. Signature plates include wild Irish venison loin, lamb saddle, and vegetarian options such as pappardelle pasta with black truffles. The emphasis on ingredient quality and thoughtful preparation ensures each dish highlights the natural flavors and textures of the region’s best ingredients.Dining Experiences Across the Day
The Great Room caters to a variety of dining occasions, from breakfast and business lunches to sumptuous dinners and traditional afternoon teas. Breakfast features classic Irish dishes alongside continental options, while lunch and dinner menus offer a sophisticated selection of starters, mains, and sides. Afternoon tea is a celebrated ritual here, served daily on elegant silver stands with finger sandwiches, delicate pastries, and scones accompanied by clotted cream and fine teas. Live piano music enhances the atmosphere on weekends, adding to the restaurant’s charm and appeal.Service and Ambiance
The restaurant is renowned for its impeccable and attentive service, delivered by highly trained staff who enhance the overall experience with professionalism and warmth. While the atmosphere is formal and elegant, the staff’s friendly approach ensures diners feel welcomed without being overfussed. The combination of outstanding service and the spectacular surroundings makes The Great Room a top choice for special occasions, romantic dinners, and celebrations.Recognition and Practical Details
The Great Room Restaurant has earned 2 AA Rosettes, reflecting its high culinary standards and commitment to excellence. Its extensive wine list, featuring over 200 bottles, is carefully curated to complement the seasonal menus. The restaurant operates daily with breakfast from 7am, lunch midday, afternoon tea until late afternoon, and dinner service into the evening. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend dining and afternoon tea, to secure a table in this popular fine-dining venue.Location and Accessibility
Located at 16 Skipper Street, Belfast BT1 2DY, The Great Room is easily accessible from key city points, including Lanyon Place train station about half a mile away. The central location places it within walking distance of Belfast’s main attractions, making it an ideal stop for visitors seeking a memorable dining experience in a historic and luxurious setting.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Albert Memorial Clock
0.1 km
Belfast’s iconic leaning Victorian clock tower, blending Gothic grandeur with rich industrial heritage and local character.
2-6 Waring St
0.1 km
Victorian banking masterpiece transformed into luxury hospitality on Belfast's historic mercantile street.
Numbers' Wall
0.1 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
0.3 km
A soaring symbol of peace and gratitude rising 19.5 meters above Belfast's heart.
Queen Elizabeth II Bridge
0.3 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.
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
0.5 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
0.5 km
Belfast’s grand civic heart, where Edwardian architecture meets city history in Donegall Square’s green heart.
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.
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.
Belfast City Hall Tours
0.6 km
Baroque Revival masterpiece and civic heart of Belfast, where industrial heritage meets contemporary culture.
Mary Ann McCracken statue
0.6 km
Bronze monument to an abolitionist, feminist pioneer, and social reformer who stood for justice across three centuries.
Unmissable attractions to see
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.
The Dirty Onion and Yardbird
0.1 km
Historic Belfast pub with lively Irish music downstairs and Yardbird’s famed rotisserie chicken upstairs in a rustic, vibrant setting.
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.
Cathedral Quarter Belfast
0.1 km
Belfast's creative heartland where Victorian grandeur meets contemporary street art and vibrant cultural expression.
Creative Tours Belfast
0.1 km
Explore Belfast’s vibrant music scene on foot with expert guides, historic venues, and live performances in the UNESCO City of Music.
GoT To Escape - Game of Thrones Escape Rooms
0.1 km
Immerse yourself in thrilling Game of Thrones escape rooms in Belfast’s historic Church Lane, where teamwork and clever puzzles await.
High St
0.1 km
High Street Belfast: Where historic charm meets vibrant shopping and lively city culture in the heart of Belfast.
Custom House Square
0.1 km
Central Belfast’s vibrant square blending historic grandeur with lively festivals and cultural celebrations year-round.
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.
Queen's Square
0.1 km
Discover Belfast’s oldest square, where rich history meets vibrant city life in a lively cultural plaza.
McHughs Bar & Restaurant
0.2 km
Discover McHugh's Bar & Restaurant, a vibrant pub and dining experience in Belfast's Queen's Square, blending tradition with contemporary flavors.
Commercial Court
0.2 km
Discover Belfast’s historic Commercial Court, a vibrant cobbled alley alive with colourful murals, lively pubs, and rich mercantile heritage.
Trade union mural
0.2 km
A vibrant mural in Belfast celebrating the city’s proud labor history and the enduring spirit of trade union solidarity.
Catalyst Arts Gallery
0.2 km
Discover Belfast’s dynamic artist-led gallery showcasing cutting-edge contemporary art and fostering creative community since 1993.
Essential places to dine
The Great Room Restaurant, Belfast
0.0 km
Experience Belfast’s finest Victorian dining beneath Ireland’s largest chandelier with exquisite local cuisine and impeccable service.
The Thirsty Goat Belfast
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Discover Belfast's vibrant culinary scene at The Thirsty Goat, where delicious grilled dishes meet an extensive beverage selection.
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.
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 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 Northern Whig
0.2 km
Experience the best of Belfast dining at The Northern Whig, where traditional flavors meet modern culinary art in an inviting 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
0.2 km
Step into Belfast’s Bootleggers for bold American flavors, original cocktails, and a lively speakeasy vibe inspired by 1920s Prohibition.
Mumbai 27
0.2 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter at Mumbai 27.
Buba
0.2 km
Bold Eastern Mediterranean small plates, flame-grilled meats and creative cocktails in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
Dumpling Library
0.3 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
0.3 km
Modern Venetian-inspired Italian dining in Belfast’s Saint Anne's Square with vibrant cicchetti, fresh ingredients, and a lively atmosphere.
OX Belfast
0.3 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.
Academy Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience the best of Modern European cuisine at Academy Restaurant in Belfast, where local ingredients meet innovative culinary artistry.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Art Loves at The Merchant
0.0 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
0.1 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant vintage gem offering unique clothing, rare records, and curated books in a welcoming, multi-floor cultural haven.
Urban Outfitters
0.2 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Belfast on Ann Street — where cutting-edge fashion meets creative lifestyle in Northern Ireland’s vibrant capital.
Born and Bred
0.2 km
Explore Born and Bred in Belfast for unique Irish gifts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of Northern Ireland.
Søstrene Grene
0.2 km
Discover Scandinavian charm and creativity at Søstrene Grene Belfast, your cozy craft and home decor destination in the city center.
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.
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.
Tommy Hilfiger
0.3 km
Discover classic American style with a modern twist at Tommy Hilfiger, nestled in Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square shopping centre.
Fossil Store Belfast
0.3 km
Discover timeless American vintage-inspired watches and accessories in the heart of Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
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.
Build-A-Bear Workshop
0.3 km
Create your own stuffed friend in an interactive workshop experience at Belfast's Victoria Square.
FatFace
0.3 km
Alpine-inspired casual wear and outdoor lifestyle fashion in Belfast's premier shopping destination.
Replay Store Belfast
0.3 km
Discover stylish Italian-designed denim and casual wear at Replay Store Belfast, nestled in the vibrant Victoria Square shopping center.
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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Spaniard
0.0 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
0.0 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.
The Black Box
0.1 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.
Henry's
0.2 km
A lively Belfast pub and restaurant blending historic charm with modern dining, live music, and a vibrant social scene.
The Jailhouse
0.2 km
Historic Belfast pub blending vintage charm with lively cocktails and hearty fare in a character-filled setting at Joy’s Entry.
Monico Bars
0.2 km
Classic Belfast pub on Lombard Street pouring pints, serving stews, and screening sports in a lively city-center haven.
The Tipsy Bird
0.2 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
0.3 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.
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.
The Garrick
0.4 km
Authentic Victorian charm meets lively traditional music and hearty food in Belfast’s beloved Garrick Bar.
The Reporter. Bar
0.5 km
A cozy, quirky, dog-friendly bar in Belfast with great bottled beers, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Ollie's Belfast
0.0 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
0.2 km
A compact, high‑energy clubnight in Belfast’s Common Market that celebrates 1990s music with DJs, themed entertainment and a pulsing dance atmosphere.
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.
Kremlin
0.5 km
Belfast's beating heart of gay nightlife: dance floors ablaze, cocktails flowing, and community vibes till dawn on Donegall Street.
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.
Thompsons Garage
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Thompsons Garage, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await every night.
Shoe Factory
0.5 km
Experience the lively and inclusive nightlife at Shoe Factory, Belfast's top gay nightclub, where music, dance, and celebration come together.
Boombox Belfast
0.5 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
0.5 km
A high-energy Belfast nightclub within the Kremlin complex, known for DJ nights, themed performances and lively late‑hour clubbing.
The Art Department
0.5 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
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
- Romantic
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
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
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- 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
