I WOULD AVOID AT ALL COSTS - HOSTILE ENCOUNTER I struggled with writing this for a while, but thought I should just to save future patrons from what we went through. Stopped in here after seeing the wall art and we wanted to look for a place to eat. Bellied up to the bar, ordered a pint, the wife a sparkling water and started looking on Yelp! for our next food adventure. We are not there 10 minutes before we are approached by a local who is so offensive that it took every ounce of my being not to react. Instead, we finished our drinks and walked out. When I say the comment was offensive, I can't even out it on here. He was looking for a fight for sure. We never looked at him, nor conversed with anyone other than the bartender since we were only there for a quick second. We traveled from Dublin to Killarney to Sligo to Belfast over an eight day period, stopping in various pubs, establishments and restaurants, talking with all sorts of great and interesting people and this is the only negative experience we had. I see good reviews here and maybe it was just one bad guy at the same place at the same time, but I tell you what, that's enough for me to warn others of this. I would find somewhere else and not even take the chance. read more

The Spaniard - Wall art - Pubs Near Me - Belfast, BFS

Popped in to The Spaniard on St Patrick's Day and when I went to check in I realised I hadn't reviewed it since 2010. That's 5 years ago, surely something has changed, and surely they've dropped their standards? I'm pleased to report that they haven't the Spaniard is still everything it was back in 2010, actually it might be getting better, if that's possible! What's new then; The Spaniard has Hop House Lager on tap (a local offering) and seems to have put started focusing on luxury spirits - one chalk board was advertising £20+ shots of rum, which are now on my 'to drink list'. If you haven't been to The Spaniard go now! One thing that has changed is the local competition. In a 100 yard radius there's 5 bars, that I can think of, but The Spaniard holds it's own. It may be small but it packs a punch. It's still the perfect place to go to block out the world, listen to some great music and sup on a pint - one word of advice is to keep an eye on time because the Spaniard has a knack making you lose track and before you know it the house lights are going up. read more

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Oh the Spaniard! Yes, it's packed - so much so that we were asked to go upstairs because the downstairs area was simply too full. The bartenders are nice, but I was expecting...more experience? If you're ordering beers and spirits, no prob. Cocktails and shots - that's a whole other issue. This may not be the case with the bartenders downstairs (never was able to enter that area), but our upstairs bartenders had no idea what shots were NOR did they have shot glasses. Just to be clear - it was two very gregarious locals that offered to buy us shots. The decor is very hard-line Catholic with pictures of saints everywhere as well as a mish-mosh of Mexican flair (Frida Kahlo, katrinas, etc.) throughout. Besides the possibility of spotting a GoT star, there doesn't seem to be any great reason to warrant a second visit. read more

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THE best pub in Belfast... Small and intimate surroundings, ALWAYS a great music playlist and Guinness, brilliant food, wonderfully eclectic décor, great selection of wines, beers and spirits and truly great bar staff and located in Belfast's lovely Cathedral Quarter... Why wouldn't you go and try it out...? Just go and have a pint, you'll see what I mean! read more

The Spaniard - Chilled out tunes - Pubs Near Me - Belfast, BFS

I generally just give positive reviews but brought dog as its meant to be dog friendly, we sat outside as we had two dogs for the evening. Our bog has been inside on 3 occasions in the past. Bouncer came over after we spent over 300 pounds in the group to complain about our dog barking. In fairness he had done on a few occasions. Attitude stunk we were on the public street at all times. I have rarely meet such ignorance and rudeness, we were outside on main street at all times. So there should have been no issue. 300 pounds and thats the service. Disregard the dog friendly element inside we were on the main street, the bouncer just seemed to want a fight. No need for this after several visits in the past. read more

I accidentally went for a few school night drinks last night and accidentally ended up in The Spaniard. OK, the venue wasn't an accident, I love The Spaniard. It's small and cosy and always has a great atmosphere whether it's a quiet Monday afternoon or a heaving Saturday night. It has been a stand out feature of the Cathedral Quarter for years and despite plenty of new places opening around it, The Spaniard remains a firm favourite. It prides itself on having the best rum selection in town, but even though I hate rum there are loads of fine cocktails and gins to keep me happy. A special mention also needs to go to the tunes, they always rock. I also love the lounge upstairs which has a very strong religious theme. I've seen plenty of shocked faces on seeing it for the first time, but if a little imagery offends you, what on earth are you doing in a bar in the first place! ;-) Long live The Spaniard! read more

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After hearing only great things about this little bar for years, I finally gave it a go last night for the 1st time..but have to say I was very disappointed. With it being a Monday night, the bar was pretty dead apart from one other couple. As soon as we entered and approached the bar, we were informed quite abruptly by the bar staff "it's over 21 in here.." to which I felt a mixture of shock (considering im closer to 30) and offense at their unfriendly tone and general attitude. We replied that our age was definitely not an issue and proceeded to order a drink. Again however, the barman was quite unfriendly and sharp with his replies to anything I asked for. I then asked for a half-pint of beer and was told they couldn't do that!? It's a pity that the staff have ruined my first impressions of this place, because it otherwise has lots of character and interesting decor throughout read more

I have a feeling that The Spaniard is fantastically overrated. Hear me out before you start booing... Why would you want to stand shoulder to shoulder, rammed in like sardines (sorry for the cliché) in a tiny little room with people delighting in their own over-exuberance because they think that they're in the coolest pub in Belfast? Why wouldn't you want to go somewhere with a bit of breathing space? Yes, the place is interestingly decorated, but so are a handful of others in the nearby area. At the risk of sounding like a right old misery guts; In some of those places, you might actually be able to sit down and stretch your legs out. I've never really had an enjoyable experience in The Spaniard as I'm clearly mildly claustrophobic. It's not for me. read more

The Spaniard - Pubs Near Me - Belfast, BFS

Really cool little bar with tons of character. I'll start with the only negative I have- it doesn't take much of a crowd to fill this small bar, so you may have trouble getting in on a Friday or Saturday night with a large group. Inside though, I love the place. The downstairs walls are covered in musical memorabilia going back to the 60's, and there always seems to be great tunes playing in the background. The bar has a great selection of drinks, and I'm always very pleased with the barstaff- they have a great knowledge of the drinks they're serving and will always acknowledge you, even at peak times. I love calling in here on a Saturday afternoon if I'm walking around the town- nice way of taking a break. Upstairs is a sort of disco bar, though I'm not sure it is open during the day. Like downstairs, there isn't much room to throw shapes around, but there is usually a DJ on weekend nights. The music is pretty chilled, and it's a cool place to enjoy a drink on a night out. read more

Had my very first date with the boyfriend there, so maybe I'm biased, but in my opinion, this is one of the best pubs in Belfast. It is TINY, so you have to get in early to grab a spot at the bar, and extra early to get a table. However, the drinks and pints are definitely nice enough to start your evening off with. I love how there is always such a great mix of people; you'll get yuppy business types rubbing elbows with the dreadlocked and tattooed who are having conversations with the old men regulars who want to buy those nice looking Australian girls some drinks! The decor is stunning, every surface is covered in creepy ephemera (dead-eyed dolls anyone?), album covers, and misc vintage items. So basically, don't visit the Spaniard, I want it all to myself! Accessibility: Unfortunately zero. Even if it was empty you wouldn't be able to negotiate a wheelchair between the bar and the tables. read more

I have fond memories of the Spaniard for a couple of reasons, it's one of those bars I'll always go back to, its always packed, which is a credit to the place but also due to the size of it, it's tiny, I always end up upstairs for fear of getting trampled on in the ground floor bar. The decor, is dark, cosy, and religious! Statues and pictures of the virgin Mary are littered about the place, they usually have some sort of DJ playing in the corner, if it's DJ Ghost, best not to approach him, he doesn't do requests, unless he likes what you requested! It's famed for it's rum, with various types and strengths to suit any pallet, but I go a bit crazy on rum so thankfully there's plenty of other spirits, beers, wines and cocktails as an alternative. It's rare I'll stay here the whole night, it's usually part of a pub crawl, but if you get a seat, sometimes it's hard to leave! Bar service is quick and friendly, pretty pricey but it's standard enough for the Cathedral Quarter. One final thing, if you're a Game of Thrones fan, this is a favourite haunt of the cast and crew, so if you're lucky you might get a drink with Jon Snow... depending on whether or not he's in the next season.... read more

Called in here last night after a yelp event, as I've never actually been! (Shame on me!) I've heard great reviews but I was surprised how small it was! I can see the attraction though...it's snug and quaint inside, absolutely jam packed with bottles, decorations, ornaments etc Would put you in mind of a little country pub We were served straight away at the bar but then left to our own devices, and stayed there as there wasn't any free tables, but we felt quite comfortable sipping our beer and enjoying the atmosphere Would def go back, but could see it being hard to get into at the weekends read more

One of the smallest pubs that I have ever been in there are literally three tables with chairs and some stools at a small bar...I have never been here when its busy...thank goodness...I'm not sure it would be that enjoyable...But it would be nice to be on the inside looking out one Friday night...I went for food here for a birthday a couple of years ago and I have recently heard some good reviews from friends so I guess their food is still up to scratch..only go with friends here if you are all very thin and/or small...its not gonna really work otherwise!!!! read more

The Spaniard - Pubs Near Me - Belfast, BFS

When recently taking my girlfriend, who is not a Belfast native, to The Spaniard to meet a couple of friends she commented: 'All these massive, new hotels and trendy restaurants and you take me to the smallest bar I can imagine - I love it'. This pretty much sums up The Spaniard. Its small, cosy, maybe sometimes cramped when it's busy but its rammed with character that is coming out of its ears which is exactly what I like in a bar. Located right in the heart of the Cathedral Quarter, rubbing shoulders with the more trendy, mainstream Cloth Ear and Pothouse, this bar is easy to get to, relaxed but not always easy to get a seat. A good selection of drinks and food to work with and decent enough service. Great Music and even a dart board, if throwing a few arrows tickles your fancy. A great bar for the night or even if your just stopping in for a couple on your way to a club or on your way home after dinner. Just make sure you get down early if you want a seat. read more

I didn't know this place existed until a few years ago when the Merchant was built and the Cathedral Quarter really took off, and I was really glad I discovered it! It's ridiculously small. Honestly, when you see people pile out of it at 1am it's like watching a clown car empty! But that's part of its charm. I personally find it a bit claustrophobic at night, so I don't enjoy it, but I love it for an afternoon pint. It's got a lovely atmosphere and is the kind of place where if the barstaff aren't serving you they're chatting with a regular, or sitting with their laptop deciding what tunes to put on next. There's no pretence, no hassle (except if you're fighting the crowd) and that's worth so much in Belfast. We need bars like the Spaniard to remind us that Belfast is about the drink and the criac. Trendy bars are great and I love them, but bars with character are the ones that endure. read more

Yeah yeah, I know...everyone loves the Spaniard. And you know what, I do too. As far as bars go this has got to be one of the best I've ever visited. It's got that right mix of quirk and practicality, the right blend of anarchy and fun that most bars will never have. It's waaay too small so it's easy to spend most of the night peering in the front window at luckier seated bods but what I find is the clientele is ever changing over the night so be quick and you'll maybe get your bum on the sofa. One minute you'll be surrounded by the after work crowd the next they'll have moved on and the latest hip young musicians will be gathering to plot world domination. It's a curious mix but it all hangs together really well. Special mention must go to the bar staff who have a great turn of phrase and give you the impression that they've seen it all. Décor is great as well, loads of vintage album sleeves and some hanging curios fill the ceiling...don't stare too long or you'll zone out. As I type the place may have become overrun with poseurs but hey, when a bar's this cool... Pros: Great character, does food as well. Cons: Smaller than small. read more

The Spaniard - Pubs Near Me - Belfast, BFS

A fantastic pub off the beaten track. It is very small and narrow but brimming with character. It's a lovely place to pop into for an evening pint, sitting at the tables with their quaint gingham tablecloths and rustic bottles of wine with candles in them. There's also a great buzz if you come here at night, people are usually in good spirits but you won't see any lecherous drunks either. There are loads of pictures of old bands like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones down the back by the dart board, which add a nice touch. They also play great music of the classic 60's rock variety. A classy bar for good people looking for good times. read more

I love the Spaniard and returned there to have a beer on a trip to Belfast. Been in the place a thousand times before, but, for some reason I was stopped by the doorperson on this trip. I was told that because I had on "walking shoes" I wasn't allowed entry. If this was a Friday or Saturday night I could understand. However, this was Thursday at about 8pm. Way to lose a customer, Spaniard. read more

First time ever in the spaniard, after hearing loads of good reviews about it, always heard it was small and always busy and people aren't wrong the downstairs bar is tiny! Probably the smallest bar I have ever been in, good ambiance about the place and it wasn't robust last night due to being a dull Tuesday night in Belfast, only down side that I can pic apart from the venues size is the staff didn't seem interested in us and more on there mobiles and talking to each other, prob would chose a differ t bar in the area now due to that and the size but unique and funky bar! read more

The Spaniard - The bar! - Pubs Near Me - Belfast, BFS

Very cozy, and intimate bar setting. Atmosphere is great for a group of friends. Good mixed drinks and good beer. The Guinness has a coppery taste, so not the pub for that. Really great ambiance here and the service is really quick. Strongly recommend checking it out. read more

The Spaniard is the quintessential Cathedral Quarter pub. The trendy neighborhood is a perfect backdrop for the niche pub, with the clientele to match. Moody, dark, hip and serving drinks with a kick, the Spaniard the best place in Belfast to cozy up to a friend or date. And cozy up you must. This place is tiny! Or, if you'd rather, intimate. You will at times be shoulder to shoulder, but you're guaranteed a good chat with an interesting stranger. There's no avoiding it really, so if crowds aren't your thing make sure to come very early. When I lived in Belfast The Spaniard was one of the first pubs I would take guests to. Even if they didn't care for crowds, they would always stay long enough to check out the ornately adorned walls, have a few rounds and soak in the atmosphere. And always ask to return the following night. Overall incredibly unique and fun pub, great vibes and even better tunes. read more

My favourite bar in Belfast. Small and intimate and a fabulous atmosphere. Great starting point for heading on to other places nearby. Tried to go for lunch here one Sunday, however, and we weren't allowed to bring our child in. No problem with this - just worth mentioning. read more

The Jesus decor is amazing. Definitely makes the place unique. A bit tight to get around as it was packed!! Head upstairs for a more intimate experience. Can't wait to go back! read more

Cool venue and interior. I asked for a mocktail. The mojito was #tasty. Upstairs has cool religious feel. Can be cramped when busy but good atmosphere. read more

This bar is pretty cramped....but what it lacks in size it makes up for in character! Very trendy, great atmosphere and great location.

So we were up in Belfast for a boozy Saturday lunch and decided to check out The Spaniard. Yes it is small but it is all part of the charm. It has plenty of character with its decor, fabulous drinks and great bar staff. Even the toilets look delightful. If I lived in Belfast I would be there every weekend without question! We will be back. read more

Best thing about the spaniard is the music. If you like 60s and 70s rock tunes while chatting to the locals it is fantastic atmosphere especially on a friday night after work. A bit cramped downstairs and you can never get a seat but sure! Then there is the story about bill murray who while filming in belfast used to come in here regularly for a pint. Imagine bumping into bill murray in what has to be the smallest bar in belfast! read more

Great pub with a nice crowd. Its also massive, so there's room for a big crowd of mates. It was late when we got there so I don't know how the food was. If it has any downside its that when its quiet, as it was when we got there, the place can feel cavernous, empty and lacking in atmosphere. read more

Great wee spot!! Advice is get down early to get a seat and if u manage one guard it with your life!! Small and intimate, great for couples or small groups. Great atmosphere. read more

This is my favourite little bar in Belfast. Situated in the very trendy and up and coming titanic quarter you could easily blink and miss this little gem. The inside is pretty small with one large, long seat running the length of the wall. There is also a little nook area, which is more private to sit in with huge wooden tables and that cosy candle in a wine bottle feel. It is small, there is only one female toilet and so there can be queues running into the little nook area. I love the décor - album covers used as wallpaper (might do that in my living room!). There are extra little touches to the drinks - I once spent a full afternoon in this bar with a friend drinking gin and tonics with large slivers of cucumber added for decoration and to cool the drink - a bit different than the usual lemon or lime. I've also heard wonderful things about the food although I have not eaten there yet myself. All in all a great little bar for a few people to hang out in and chat - not good for a big group though. read more

The Spaniard - Pubs Near Me - Belfast, BFS

Atmospherically and musically this is one of the little gems in the city that those of all ages (provided your age is at least 25) should check out. The Spaniard is a tiny niche little bar situated in the ever popular Cathedral Quarter area of the city centre. Downstairs is full of chique fixtures and fittings, 1920's advertising, records adorning the walls and oddly (odd but fantastic) a picture of Bill Murray behind the bar. Upstairs is more of the same. Lots of rum behind the bar, a spattering of single malts and a modest selection of beer and wine. The food is also superb from what I've heard, the last time I was here the special of the day was crab claws from the local market doused in herbs and garlic... yes please. The owner is a fantastic woman. She actually put on a complimentary bar and food for the guests after my uncle's funeral to which I owe her an awful lot of gratitude, god knows how much it ended up costing them. Fantastically warm and friendly. Prices are on the high side but you do get what you pay for in terms of the feel and clientele. If you do go try a Goslings dark rum, fresh lime and ginger beer.... utterly brilliant. read more

Great wee bar,good stout and banter. Plenty of old school records decorating the bar,makes for a colorful setup. The downstairs toilet can smell a bit fruity at times. At weekends there may a few 'Bangore'-types floating about once the flock has migrated from the Pothouse or the Northern Whig, otherwise its a sound laidback crowd read more

This bar has a lot of soul. fun to drink in, lots of drink options and good friendly bar staff. Much like its sister bar Muriel's, its a must visit for a true taste of Belfast. read more

You can't beat Cathedral Quarter. Pop in here for a pint of the black stuff and a game of darts.

One of the best small bars in Belfast. Great surroundings and staff are very pleasant.

Small and intimate this bar is lovely but not for everyone. It can get quite crowded quickly. If you are out with a group of friends tho and get in early enough it is def a great atmosphere and fab place to drink as a group. Cathedral quarter is really up and coming in Belfast Great to include here if your having a tour of the pubs. read more

This is a small place, easy to find, serving good drinks in a decent atmosphere staffed with friendly people. What's not to like? Of course I've only actually been there once, and it was on a weekday evening, but on those impressions I'd go back. read more

Called into Spaniard last night we were having a great night until a dog piddled in front of the bar then jumped up beside us. We complained to manager who told us to get out as the Spaniard is now dog friendly. Go to the Spaniard everytime we're in town but have to say we won't be back. read more

A fab little bar, although 'little' is the operative word! It can be very difficult to get a seat even during the day, but is well worth it if you do. Great music upstairs at the weekend. read more

A very nice part of the Cathedral quarter, good selection of rums, I am particularly fond of the Koku Kanu(it's a little like Malibu but stronger). Gets a decent crowd, you could have a nice evening or night here, the bar staff aren't great at conversation though but they're nice enough people. Downsides are of course the prices and it's a very small bar and can get quite overcrowded but that's the fault of the doorman. There is also a Bar upstairs which is only open on certain nights, it has really weird decor, looks like the inside of a chapel lol it's slightly larger which is a plus. Worth a visit. read more