Every morning, if I skip breakfast, I can feel the hangry monster creeping in—irritable and desperate for food.
I’ve learned that starting my day without a good meal is a recipe for disaster, so I’ve made it my mission to find the best breakfast spots in Belfast that can save me from that fate.
Join me as I share my favorite eateries where you can indulge in everything from traditional Ulster fries to trendy brunch dishes. Trust me, you won’t want to miss these delicious recommendations that will transform your mornings!
1. The Coffee House Bistro
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Address: Unit C, 126 Stewartstown Rd, Belfast BT11 9JQ, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442890614396
Operating hours: 9 AM–3 PM
Pricing: €
The Coffee House Bistro’s modern yet cozy atmosphere, with its wooden accents and comfortable seating, is perfect for any occasion, whether a casual meal or a special get-together.
I love that this spot offers free Wi-Fi, so it’s a great place to hang out for remote work or casual meetings. And let’s talk about the food—they have breakfast options, from hearty Irish breakfasts to lighter choices like smoothies and granola bowls.
The menu focuses on Irish dishes with a café-style twist. It caters to different dietary preferences with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
The restaurant also hosts special events like themed brunches and live music nights, which add extra fun to the dining experience. Also, watch for their seasonal discounts—they’re a great way to make dining here even more enjoyable.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss out on their specialty coffees; they’re crafted with care and perfect for your meal! Enjoying your breakfast while soaking in the lively atmosphere is an experience you won’t want to rush.
2. Causeway Cafe
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Website: http://www.belfastcafe.co.uk/
Address: 22 Donegall Rd., Belfast BT12 5JN, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442890328292
Operating hours: 8 AM–2 PM
Pricing: €
From the outside, Causeway Cafe looks pretty unassuming, but once you step inside, you’re greeted with this spacious and cozy setup that can accommodate up to 90 guests. It has a mix of regular tables and comfy leather sofas.
What’s cool is that they offer free Wi-Fi, so it’s a great spot to grab a meal, get some work done, or just browse the internet.
The menu is so diverse, featuring traditional Belfast dishes and international influences. They have many vegan and gluten-free options, too, which is awesome. I’m a big fan of their Traditional Belfast Breakfast, the Ulster Fry.
They always update their specials, so you can try something new every time you visit. Plus, they offer complimentary Irish tea or filter coffee with most main meal purchases, which is such a nice touch.
Pro tip:
Take advantage of their complimentary pot of Irish tea or filter coffee with most main meal purchases—it’s a lovely touch that adds to the cafe’s charm.
3. Maggie Mays Belfast Cafe
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Website: http://maggiemaysbelfast.com/
Address: 50 Botanic Ave, Belfast BT7 1JR, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442890322662
Operating hours: 8 AM–9 PM
Pricing: €€
Maggie Mays Belfast Café is a family-run spot that has won over locals and visitors since 1995. The café’s architecture gives off a cozy yet modern vibe, and the bright interiors make it the perfect place to kick back and enjoy a meal.
What I love most about Maggie Mays is its commitment to traditional homemade Irish food. It’s no wonder it has become one of Northern Ireland’s go-to dining spots. They serve all-day breakfasts, hearty lunches, and an extensive dinner menu.
The ambiance is warm and inviting, with a rustic charm that makes you feel at home. And let me tell you about their Ulster Fry—it’s an indulgent breakfast featuring soda bread and potato bread that you’ve got to try!
Pro tip:
Take advantage of their BYOB policy. This means you can bring their favorite beverages to complement your meals.
4. The Mad Hatter Café
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Address: 64/65 Prussia Street, 66 Prussia St, Stoneybatter, Dublin 7, D07 VK72, Ireland
Contact details: +353838332268
Operating hours: 8:30 AM–5 PM
Pricing: €
The Mad Hatter Café is inspired by “Alice in Wonderland,” and it truly reflects that whimsical charm. The interior is cozy with themed artwork and comfy seating, making it a perfect spot to unwind and savor a delicious meal.
They serve British fare, so that you can expect hearty options like steak sandwiches and wraps and their amazing breakfast items. They offer everything from all-day breakfasts to homemade paninis and delicious desserts.
Even better, the café occasionally hosts special events and offers discounts on certain days, making it an even more appealing destination for those looking to enjoy good food at reasonable prices.
Pro tip:
Be sure to pair your meal with one of their freshly brewed coffees to enhance the flavors of your breakfast. And don’t forget to take a moment to enjoy the quirky decor that adds to the café’s whimsical charm!
5. Jumon
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Website: http://www.jumon.co.uk/
Address: Unit 6 McAuley House, Fountain St, Belfast BT1 5ED, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442890231394
Operating hours: 5–10 PM
Pricing: €€
Jumon, located in the McAuley House, has a modern yet inviting design with colorful decor and an open layout that just makes you want to hang out there all day. What I love most about Jumon is its focus on Asian-inspired vegetarian and vegan cuisine.
The name “Jumon” means “incantation,” which really hints at the magical dining experience there. I enjoyed the communal vibe, perfect for sharing plates with friends.
The menu is divided into “Smalls” and “Bigs,” so you can try various dishes. They also offer a selection of amazing cocktails and wines that go perfectly with the food.
The ambiance is lively and relaxed, with a mix of music and decor that creates an inviting space for any occasion. My absolute favorite dish was the Turnip and Doenjang Dip, paired with their Coconut Margarita—it was just the best combination!
Pro tip:
Don’t miss out on their seasonal specials, which often feature locally sourced ingredients and innovative flavor combinations that showcase Belfast’s culinary creativity.
6. The Lamppost Cafe
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Website: http://thelamppostcafe.com/
Address: 19 Upper Newtownards Rd, Belfast BT4 3HT, United Kingdom
Operating hours: 9 AM–4 PM
Pricing: €€
The Lamppost Cafe is inspired by C.S. Lewis and has a whimsical Narnia-themed decor that sets it apart. I love the vintage crockery and the cozy atmosphere that takes you back to a bygone era.
Unsurprisingly, The Lamppost Cafe won the Eastside Award for Foodie Destination in 2018. The cafe has two floors, with a lively teashop on the ground level and an upstairs Writers Room designed to evoke Lewis’s study.
I really appreciate that it’s family-friendly, with highchairs and baby-changing facilities, so it’s accessible for parents with young children. It’s also dog-friendly, so you can bring your furry companions along.
My favorite spot is the upstairs Writers Room, where I can sip on a Dirty Chai Latte and get lost in a good book from their eclectic collection. The welcoming environment encourages you to stay a while, whether working or simply relaxing.
Pro tip: Visit during off-peak hours for a more relaxed experience and to snag a cozy spot in the Writers Room. Don’t forget to bring your furry friend along; they have special “Puppy Plates” on the menu!
7. Established Coffee
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Website: http://www.established.coffee/
Address: 54 Hill St, Belfast BT1 2LB, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442890319416
Operating hours: 7 AM–4:30 PM
Pricing: €€
Established Coffee is a real gem with its sleek, minimalist architectural design. The atmosphere is perfect for catching up with friends—the large communal tables, exposed brick walls, and natural light from the large windows create a modern yet relaxed vibe.
They have a mouthwatering selection of freshly baked pastries, sandwiches, and hearty breakfast options, all crafted with local ingredients. The Crispy Potato Hash Brown and the indulgent White Chocolate French Toast are my favorites.
They also host special events like coffee-tasting sessions and pop-up markets. Plus, they often have seasonal discounts that make indulging in their delicious offerings even more appealing. Keep an eye out for those – it’s worth it.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss out on their seasonal specials; they often feature unique dishes that highlight local ingredients. Also, if you can, visit during the quieter morning hours to fully enjoy the café’s ambiance without the hustle and bustle.
8. Harlem Cafe
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Website: https://www.harlemcafebelfast.com/
Address: 34 Bedford St, Belfast BT2 7FF, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442890244860
Operating hours: 9 AM–2 PM
Pricing: €€
Harlem Cafe is a beautiful mix of vintage and modern vibes, with its art-deco facade and colorful interior filled with plants and quirky antiques. I love that they offer indoor and outdoor seating, perfect for catching up with friends or having a family gathering.
They serve all-day breakfast, which is a real crowd-pleaser. They’ve nailed it with traditional breakfast dishes and creative twists. I can’t get enough of their perfectly cooked poached eggs with bacon.
The atmosphere is vibrant and relaxed, and the service is always friendly. The cafe also hosts cool events and promotions, like themed brunches and cocktail evenings, to keep things interesting.
Pro tip:
If you’re visiting on a weekend, arrive early to beat the brunch rush and secure a cozy table. Don’t forget to order a breakfast cocktail; the Bloody Mary here is refreshing and pairs perfectly with any dish!
9. Neills Hill Brasserie
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Website: http://www.neillshill.com/
Address: 229 Upper Newtownards Rd, Belfast BT4 3JF, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442890650079
Operating hours: 10 AM–2:30 PM, 5–8:30 PM
Pricing: €€
Neill’s Hill Brasserie has a welcoming vibe, and the vibrant artwork by local illustrator Peter Strain adds character to the whole dining experience.
The menu is diverse, with small plates, fresh fish, and thoughtfully crafted vegan options. And let me tell you about their brunch – it’s not just delicious; it’s a local favorite.
One thing I love is their Tapas Night on Wednesdays. The Spanish small plates are amazing, and the live music from the local duo ‘Los Dramaticos’ creates such a lively atmosphere – it’s perfect for a midweek pick-me-up.
Sundays are extra special with their Kitchen Carvery, which offers roast meats and veggie options served family-style. It’s a great place to gather with friends and family.
Pro tip:
When visiting Neill’s Hill, take advantage of their Wednesday tapas nights. This unique offering allows you to sample a variety of small plates, showcasing local ingredients and seasonal flavors.
10. Bar + Block Steakhouse Belfast
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Website: https://www.barandblock.co.uk/en-gb/locations/belfast?cid=GLBC_40538460
Address: 2-6 Waring St, Belfast BT1 2DX, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442896931227
Operating hours: 6:30 AM–11 PM
Pricing: €€€
Bar + Block Steakhouse has a great mix of modern and cozy, with stylish booths that make it perfect for hanging out with friends. They do a Bottomless Brunch daily, where you can enjoy a main course and two hours of unlimited drinks.
And let me tell you, their Ultimate Roast on Sundays is out of this world – roast chicken, beef sirloin, and lamb rump with all the trimmings. It’s a feast!
But wait, there’s more. Their drinks menu is on point, with daily 2-for-1 cocktails from 4 PM to 8 PM – perfect for unwinding after a long day.
Oh, and they have special events too, like festive menus during the holiday season and discounts such as three courses for €15.95 during lunch hours from Monday to Friday.
Pro tip:
If you want to enhance your breakfast experience, consider pairing your meal with one of their specialty coffees or a refreshing juice. Additionally, visiting during the weekend can offer you a chance to enjoy their brunch specials.