What’s a good dog friendly pub in Belfast? We get asked this a lot.
Belfast City Centre isn’t short on spots to grab a pint but if you’ve got a four-legged friend in tow, you’ll want to know where they’re properly welcome.
We’re talking pubs that greet dogs with a smile (and maybe even a sausage), not just ones that “allow” them. Whether you’re out for a weekend wander or planning your next pup-friendly pub crawl, we’ve sniffed out the places that do it best.
From buzzy beer gardens to cosy corners with dog treats on hand, here are 15 of the most dog-friendly pubs right in the heart of Belfast.
Lead in one hand, pint in the other…let’s go.
Credit: The Reporter bar
The Reporter
Nestled on Union Street in the heart of the Cathedral Quarter, The Reporter is one of Belfast’s newer dog-loving pubs. It’s known for its design-forward interior adorned with press memorabilia, paying homage to the city’s newspaper printing heritage. The vibe is warm and intimate, the perfect hideaway on a drizzly Belfast day yet it can get lively with weekly pub quizzes, live music nights and sports screenings (rugby is a favourite here). Craft beers from local breweries and creative cocktails line the menu so there’s plenty for humans to enjoy too.
Dog Details
Dogs are welcome inside and out, with a covered beer patio available if you prefer the outdoors. In fact, The Reporter prides itself on how it treats its canine clientele, water bowls are always at the ready and on Sundays your pup can even enjoy a free homemade doggy treat. Staff are genuinely glad to see wagging tails coming through the door, and well-behaved dogs of all sizes are allowed (no breed or size restrictions). It’s no surprise this place has quickly become a favourite among dog owners.
Food & Drink
The Reporter offers a mix of local craft brews, from Beer Hut to Bullhouse plus spirits distilled in Northern Ireland like Hinch whiskey and Ninth Wave gin. The focus is really on the pints, the atmosphere, and good conversation (often punctuated by the pitter-patter of paws on the wood floor).
Cozy and characterful with a modern twist, The Reporter proves you don’t have to sacrifice style for dog-friendliness. It’s an inviting spot where history buffs, beer lovers, and dog parents intersect all leaving with tails wagging.
Credit: The Dirty Onion
The Dirty Onion
Housed in one of Belfast’s oldest buildings, The Dirty Onion is an authentic Irish pub with a contemporary buzz. By day or night, it’s usually hopping – thanks to two indoor bars, the attached Yardbird restaurant, and one of Belfast’s largest beer gardens. Inside, you’ll often find a toasty peat fire and traditional music sessions. Outside, the expansive heated courtyard hosts everything from acoustic acts to weekend BBQs. There’s live music seven nights a week and never a cover charge; it’s all about laid-back craic and good company.
Dog Details
This pub truly goes above and beyond for doggies. Dogs are warmly welcomed inside the bar and out in the beer garden. The Dirty Onion team has put serious effort into being one of Belfast’s most dog-friendly venues. They’ve got their own homemade branded dog biscuits, water bowls aplenty, even free Dirty Onion dog bandanas, and a dedicated “Doggy Dock” area to safely tether your pup if needed. You’ll spot a light-hearted list of “Doggy Rules” posted, just to ensure all two- and four-legged patrons get along. The pub regularly hosts canine-themed events: their popular “Pooch Social” gatherings (complete with doggy vendors and BBQ) have attracted hundreds of dogs and owners for an afternoon of fun. (They’ve even raised funds for local dog charities like Lucy’s Trust through these events.) It’s clear that dogs aren’t just tolerated here – they’re part of The Dirty Onion family.
Credit: The Dirty Onion
Food & Drink
Come hungry. The Dirty Onion is famed for the rotisserie chicken from Yardbird (upstairs) and other hearty local grub. You can wash it down with a wide array of Irish whiskeys, draught beers, or a pint of Guinness. Lively, legendary, and overflowing with canine charm, The Dirty Onion is a must-visit. It perfectly blends old Belfast character with a new-school dog-friendly attitude. If your dog could choose the venue for your night out, they’d probably pick this one.
Credit: Pug Uglys
Pug Uglys
With a name like Pug Uglys, you know you’re in for some fun. This eccentric Irish pub on Bedford Street delivers a vibrant atmosphere that draws a young, energetic crowd. The style here is modern-meets-quirky: think colourful murals, neon signs, and a gigantic pug logo overseeing the bar. It’s loved for its menu of tasty pub grub, expansive drink list, and weekly themed events truly a something-for-everyone kind of spot.
Food & Drink
Pug Uglys serves up an all-day menu of classic comfort dishes, juicy burgers, spicy chicken wings, loaded tacos, and more, from noon until late. (Pro tip: their Sunday roast, served from noon on Sundays, is a big hit if you’re craving a traditional feed.) To drink, you’ll find an impressive range of craft beers and signature cocktails. And the fun doesn’t stop at food, this pub has entertainment every night of the week. You can catch live music, stand-up comedy sets, and pub quiz nights (they’re known for a wacky Wednesday quiz). Sports fans will appreciate the big screens for live games too.
Dog Details
True to its canine-inspired name, Pug Uglys welcomes dogs both indoors and outdoors. Well-behaved pups are allowed inside the pub to join the fun, and there’s outdoor seating complete with water bowls so your dog can hydrate while you do the same.
The atmosphere can get lively (especially during music or sports nights), so timid dogs might prefer earlier in the day. But many patrons report that the staff and regulars dote on any dog visitors, making sure they’re comfortable.
Pug Uglys is a playful, unpretentious pub that manages to balance being both a weekend party destination and a dog-friendly hangout. It’s loud, it’s lively, it’s full of character and thanks to a genuinely dog-positive staff, you won’t have to think twice about bringing your pup along for the ride.
Credit: The Sunflower Bar
Sunflower Public House
If Belfast had a “pup patron saint” of pubs, Sunflower Public House would wear the crown (and in fact, it has the awards to prove it). This simple corner pub on Kent Street has become a local institution and was even voted Northern Ireland’s most dog-friendly pub in a recent awards poll. Instantly recognisable by the old security cage at its front door (a quirky relic of 1980s Belfast), Sunflower offers a unique blend of historic character and inclusive, artsy vibe. It’s free of gimmicks, just great beer, great music, and great craic for all (dogs included).
Atmosphere & Offerings
Sunflower is beloved for its live music, walk in on any given night and you might catch a folk session, a reggae DJ, or an open-mic night emanating from the cozy bar. In warm weather, the beer garden out back is bustling; in winter, indoors gets snug and lively. A wood-fired pizza oven in the garden serves up delicious pizzas year-round (your dog will be sniffing the air at the scent of pepperoni). The pub prides itself on a rotating tap list of local brews and craft beers, plus tasty artisan cider. Yet, despite its hip credentials, Sunflower remains down-to-earth and unpretentious, everyone from students to old-timers (and again, plenty of dogs) mingles here.
Dog Details
Simply put, dogs are part of the fabric of the Sunflower. Pups are allowed inside the bar and in the beer garden, and it’s not unusual to see several curled up under tables on any given evening. Water bowls and free dog treats are always available, often placed out by the door or at the bar for self-service. Staff members genuinely adore dogs: they might come by to scratch an ear or even throw a squeaky ball in the beer garden to entertain a bored pup.
Sunflower’s dog-friendly culture runs deep; the pub has hosted charity fundraisers for dog rescue organizations and even organized Sunday dog-walking meetups for regulars and their canines.
Large dogs, small dogs, all are embraced here, as long as they’re kept on lead and under control. It’s no wonder Sunflower has twice clinched the title of Northern Ireland’s top dog-friendly pub in nationwide awards.
Sunflower Public House is a must-visit for any dog-owning traveler (or local) in Belfast. It’s a rare find that hits the sweet spot between lively urban pub and doggy paradise. Go for the music and the beer, stay for the friendly vibes and don’t be surprised if your pup makes a few new pals, canine and human alike. Sunflower is proof that sometimes the simplest pubs, with a love for community (and dogs), are the ones that capture our hearts.
Credit: The Marcus Ward
The Marcus Ward
On Bankmore Square (just off the Dublin Road), The Marcus Ward is a spacious and stylish bar that has quickly become a favourite for city centre socials, especially for those who want to bring their dog along. This bar is actually named after a historic Belfast printing company, but inside it’s all modern flare: bold, “splashy” decor with colourful artwork, neon lighting, and plenty of comfy seating. By evening, the place buzzes with a mix of young professionals and students enjoying the trendy atmosphere.
Food & Drink
The Marcus Ward doubles as an eatery and cocktail bar. Their kitchen turns out wood-fired sourdough pizzas (a house specialty) and juicy gourmet burgers that pair perfectly with a pint. The drink menu spans premium spirits, a great selection of local craft beers, and thoughtfully crafted cocktails, so whether you fancy a locally-brewed IPA or an espresso martini, they have you covered. There’s often a DJ or live music on weekends, giving it a lively vibe without losing the laid-back feel.
Dog Details
Dogs are very much welcome on the outdoor patio. There’s a covered outdoor seating area, useful for rainy days where your pup can relax.
The staff will happily provide water bowls (just ask, or look out for some already set out on the patio). The venue does ask that dogs be well-behaved and on leash, as it can get busy during peak hours.
Chic and welcoming, The Marcus Ward proves that a bar can be both trendy and dog-friendly. It’s a great pick for a casual lunch with your dog by your side, or a starting point for a weekend night out (yes, your dog can join the pregame!). With pizzas, pints, and puppy snuggles on offer, this spot truly has something for everyone.
Credit: The Bone Yard
The Bone Yard
If you and your pooch love the outdoorsy beer-garden scene, The Bone Yard will be your go-to. Tucked just behind Bedford Street, The Bone Yard is Belfast City Centre’s largest outdoor bar venue, comprising a sprawling open-air beer garden adorned with string lights, rustic benches, and repurposed shipping-container bars. From spring to autumn, this place thrums with activity, it’s like a little festival site in the middle of the city. There’s often a DJ spinning tunes on weekends or even live bands as part of their frequent events (their summertime “Yard Fest” parties are famous among locals).
Food & Drink
The Bone Yard has a rotation of street food trucks and pop-up eateries on site. On any given day, you might find BBQ brisket, wood-fired pizza, loaded fries, or tacos being served, perfect fare to enjoy with a cold pint. The bar offers a wide range of drinks, from draft beers and local ales to cocktails-in-jam-jars for those sunny afternoons. Picnic tables are spread out across the venue, giving it a chilled, communal vibe. It’s the kind of place you could spend all afternoon into evening, especially with a group of friends (furry friends included).
Dog Details
As an entirely outdoor venue, dogs are more than welcome everywhere in The Bone Yard’s beer garden. In fact, many people specifically come here because it’s such an easy spot to bring dogs along. Water bowls are provided throughout the garden, the staff usually place big communal bowls in shaded areas, and you can always ask for a refill at the bar.
You’ll see dogs lazing under picnic tables or curiously sniffing the enticing scents from the food trucks. Because it’s open-air, there’s plenty of room for larger dogs or multiple pups to spread out. The management does require dogs to be kept on a lead (leash) at all times, for everyone’s safety and comfort. There are covered sections and heaters, so even if the weather turns, you and your dog can find a cosy sheltered spot.
The Bone Yard is a bit of a urban oasis for dog owners. It’s casual, lively, and completely unique as a venue. On a sunny day, there’s honestly no better place in the city centre to kick back with a pint, enjoy some music, and have your dog at your feet (or saying hello to the table next door). Just be warned: once your pup gets a taste of the Bone Yard life, belly rubs from friendly strangers and perhaps a dropped sausage from the BBQ stand, they’ll be begging to come back.
Credit: Woodworkers Pub
The Woodworkers
Part craft-beer haven, part hip social hub, The Woodworkers is a modern bar that has earned a big following and yes, it’s dog-friendly too. Located on Bradbury Place (on the edge of the city centre, next to its famous sister pub Lavery’s), The Woodworkers is actually a collection of multiple spaces: you’ll find a long, industrial-chic main bar with rotating tap handles, a retro “lounge” area with vintage furniture, and even a pool table room. By day it’s laid-back, and by night it’s buzzing with conversation and indie tunes. Beer aficionados flock here because it’s known as one of Belfast’s best rotating taprooms, often showcasing rare and small-batch brews.
Food & Drink
If craft beer is your love language, Woodworkers will speak to you. They have a great selection of artisan beers and ales, frequently updating the taps with new local and international brews (the giant blackboard overhead lists what’s on). In addition, there’s a solid menu of bourbons, gins, and creative cocktails for the non-beer drinkers. The food menu is short and sweet but definitely satisfying, think elevated pub favourites like gourmet burgers, loaded fries, and tasty vegetarian options. Bonus: if it’s a sunny day, you can also access Lavery’s rooftop beer garden next door, carrying your pint with you in another dog-friendly space linked to Woodworkers.
Dog Details
While there isn’t an outdoor patio directly on the street, you can take dogs into the adjoining Lavery’s beer garden which is accessible through the venue. This gives you an outdoor option if needed, especially on a warm evening. There are no strict size restrictions; however, it does get quite busy on weekend nights, so for your pup’s comfort you might aim for quieter times (weekday afternoons or early evenings). Patrons describe the staff as “very accommodating” to dogs often coming over to give a pat or just to say hello to the canine patrons. With the music and chatter, the atmosphere is lively but not usually too rowdy, making it a comfortable spot for dogs that don’t mind a bit of noise.
Trendy yet unpretentious, The Woodworkers offers the best of Belfast’s modern pub culture and doesn’t leave dogs out of the equation. It’s perfect for when you want a quality pint in a cool setting after a walk in the nearby Botanical Gardens your pup will be welcome to join in the post-walk relaxation.
Credit: Henrys
Henry’s (and The Jailhouse)
In the historic Joy’s Entry alleyway (just off High Street), you’ll find Henry’s, a pub that beautifully marries old Belfast charm with a lively modern spirit. Henry’s has over 100 years of history (it’s one of the city’s oldest pubs), and after a recent restoration it’s looking better than ever. Dark wood paneling, antique mirrors, and vintage Guinness posters give it a classic feel, while live music and bustling crowds keep the energy up-to-date.
Notably, attached is The Jailhouse, a sister venue in a restored historic building where you can also bring your dog in their outside area. Together, Henry’s and The Jailhouse create a little pub complex: Henry’s on the ground floor (traditional pub vibes) and The Jailhouse accessible via the entry courtyard (a cocktail bar/eatery with a unique old-world atmosphere). Both are dog-friendly, so we’ll cover them together here.
Food & Drink
Henry’s is known for proper pub grub served every day from hearty Irish stew and fish and chips to their Sunday roast menu. They even have separate vegetarian and vegan menus, ensuring all dietary needs are met. You can pop in at lunchtime for a sandwich or come later for an evening meal. Whiskey lovers take note: Henry’s organizes bespoke whiskey tasting nights; the bar stocks an impressive range of Irish whiskeys if you fancy a dram.
Over in The Jailhouse, you’ll find a slightly more cocktail-oriented menu and small plates, as well as excellent coffee during the day. Both spots have a full bar with the usual beers, ciders, wines, and an extensive gin list. By night, Henry’s often features live traditional Irish music, and The Jailhouse (with its atmospheric courtyard lights and preserved brick walls) hosts live music on Fridays through Sundays. Sports events (rugby, GAA, football) are shown on screens in Henry’s too, drawing a crowd on match days. Despite the “old pub” bones, these venues are quite popular with a young professional crowd and tourists, so there’s a vibrant mix.
Dog Details
Dogs are welcome inside at Henry’s, with just a few common-sense rules. Well-behaved pups on leash can join you indoors – the staff will usually direct you to an area with some extra space, especially if it’s busy, so your dog can lie under the table (which is encouraged).
There’s an outdoor courtyard in Joy’s Entry itself, shared between Henry’s and The Jailhouse, which is a lovely spot to sit with your dog on milder days. Water bowls are provided; typically if you’re sitting outside, a server will bring one without you even having to ask (if you’re indoors and need one, just ask and they’ll fetch it).
The only real restriction is that management asks dogs to remain on a lead and preferably under your table when inside, so they don’t wander (especially during food service).
The live music tends to be acoustic or folk, which most dogs handle just fine. If your dog needs a little break, a quick stroll down Joy’s Entry (a narrow, pedestrian alley) can be a good potty break area and a bit of fresh air before you settle back in.
For a slice of authentic Belfast with your pup by your side, Henry’s (and The Jailhouse) hit the spot. You get the best of both worlds: a historic pub atmosphere and a contemporary welcome for dogs. So pull up a chair, order a pint of the black stuff (or a whiskey flight), and let your dog soak up the ambient cheer, you’ll both feel right at home.
Credit: The Spaniard
The Spaniard
A beloved Cathedral Quarter haunt, The Spaniard is a tiny two-story pub bursting with character. This place is often described as “quirky” and it more than lives up to the label, from the eclectic wall of religious iconography and Elvis memorabilia upstairs to the dim, cozy glow of the downstairs bar. It may be on the smaller side (read: it can get crammed on weekend nights), but The Spaniard’s lively atmosphere and great music more than make up for its size. If you’re doing a pub tour of Belfast, many will insist you don’t skip this one and the good news is, your dog doesn’t have to skip it either.
Vibe & Drink
The Spaniard has a reputation for excellent cocktails and rum… yes, rum. They have a surprisingly extensive rum collection behind that little bar, and the bartenders are known for mixing some fantastic mojitos and punches. Beer drinkers, fear not: you can still get a good pint of stout or the usual lager on tap, but consider trying one of their signature drinks for a change. Music is a big part of The Spaniard’s appeal; expect an eclectic soundtrack ranging from rockabilly to classic rock, and sometimes live music or DJs upstairs. Despite the seemingly random decor (or perhaps because of it), the pub exudes a warmth that draws in a very friendly crowd. It’s the kind of spot where you might end up chatting with strangers (especially about the décor – do peek into the funky upstairs room, as one travel tip advises).
Dog Details
Dogs are enthusiastically welcomed at The Spaniard; the pub’s dog-friendly policy is as laid-back as the bar itself. Pups can come inside (which is great, because there’s not really any dedicated outdoor seating except a couple of barrels on the sidewalk). Don’t be surprised if the bartender greets your dog with the same enthusiasm as you; water bowls are readily provided (usually they keep one near the bar entrance – just let them know if it’s needed refreshed). The Spaniard’s staff and regulars seem to genuinely love canine visitors. Space is the only consideration: since it’s a tight squeeze when busy, medium to large dogs might find it a bit uncomfortable during peak times. If your dog is small enough, they’ll likely be curled in your lap or under a barstool quite content.
One patron famously noted that you’ll often see “a dog or two” amidst the 20- and 30-something crowd here, which only adds to the authentic Belfast vibe. There are no formal restrictions beyond keeping your pup on leash. And if your dog is a social butterfly, they’ll get plenty of attention in this intimate pub setting.
The Spaniard is a true Belfast gem, unique, bohemian, and full of soul. The fact that it’s dog-friendly inside its cozy quarters just cements its status as a must-visit. Stop in for a cocktail or a whiskey, soak up the atmosphere (you truly won’t find another pub like it), and enjoy the fact that at The Spaniard, everyone is treated like a regular, furry friends included.
Credit: Orisha
Orisha
Tucked away on Fountain Street near City Hall, Orisha is a cool little bar that offers something a bit different: by day it’s a chill coffee spot and by night it transforms into a buzzing cocktail lounge. Inspired in name by an Afro-Caribbean tradition (fitting, since its sister bar Voodoo is just around the corner), Orisha brings a slice of the exotic to Belfast’s bar scene. It’s one of those places where you can grab an afternoon latte or a late-night espresso martini, all in a cozy, neon-accented space with urban murals on the walls.
Vibe & Offerings
Orisha prides itself on a relaxed, come-as-you-are atmosphere during the day, you’ll see people chilling with coffees, perhaps with their dogs at their feet, as light streams in from the front windows. Come evening, the pace quickens: they dim the lights, DJs or live musicians kick in, and the cocktail shakers start rattling. The bar is renowned for its creative cocktails (the menu features both classics and Orisha’s own inventions, if you love rum and tropical flavors, you’re in luck). Despite the name’s mystical origins, there’s nothing dark or spooky here; it’s actually quite warm and welcoming inside, with friendly bartenders and a mix of seating ranging from high stools to cushioned benches.
Dog Details
Orisha loves dogs, in fact, they often post photos of their canine customers on Instagram. Dogs are welcome both inside the bar and in the covered, heated outdoor seating area out front. So if you’re out shopping in the city centre and need a break, you can step into Orisha with your pup for a coffee or drink without any hassle. They provide water bowls for pups (just ask the staff, or sometimes they’ll notice your dog and bring one over proactively) and even the occasional treat behind the bar for good boys/girls.
Since it is a smaller venue, the usual etiquette applies: keep your dog on leash and by your side. The crowd here is very dog-friendly; don’t be surprised if other patrons or even the bar staff come over to say hi to your pooch. One of the nice things is that Orisha has covered outdoor tables, complete with heaters, so if you prefer sitting outside with your dog on a cool evening, you’ll both still be comfortable. No size restrictions – they’ve had everything from tiny Pomeranians to sizable spaniels in the bar. Late at night when the DJ is spinning, it might get a bit loud for dogs with sensitive ears, so gauge your own dog’s comfort. Many dog owners stick to earlier in the evening, when the vibe is lively but not too intense.
Whether you’re sipping a flat white at noon or a mojito at midnight, you’ll feel right at home with your pup in tow at this urban hideaway.
Credit: Fountain Lane
Fountain Lane
A historic pub reinvented for modern times, Fountain Lane (established in 1901) offers a hearty welcome to all, including dogs. Located on Fountain Street, just steps from City Hall, this pub has a lovely traditional facade and interior, complete with tile floors and classic bar snug, but thanks to a 2018 revamp it also boasts updated décor and a great food menu. It’s part of the White’s Tavern family of venues, which means you can expect a high standard in the grub and drink departments. Fountain Lane manages to be both a cozy spot to watch the world go by and a vibrant social hub, depending on when you visit.
Food & Drink
Fountain Lane is particularly renowned for its food – if you’re hungry, you’ve come to the right place. Their Fountain Burger is often touted as one of the best in Belfast (stacked high and deliciously messy). They also do a mean Ulster fry in the mornings, a proper Sunday carvery lunch, and have a menu full of other pub classics (bangers and mash, fish pie, vegetarian options, etc.). Portion sizes are generous and prices reasonable, which is why it’s a hit with both tourists and locals. During the week, Fountain Lane hosts events like a pub quiz every Monday, which is great craic, and sometimes live music or DJs on weekends. It’s open from noon daily and stays lively through the evening. To drink, you’ll find well-kept pints of Irish beer (they pour a beautiful Guinness here) and a variety of whiskies and gins. It’s not a cocktail bar per se, but they can mix the basics. The atmosphere is one of a friendly neighborhood pub – you’ll often see shoppers dropping in, or folks from nearby offices having a pint after work.
Dog Details
Fountain Lane extends its warm welcome to canine companions as well. Dogs are permitted both inside the pub and at the outdoor tables, so you have flexibility. Inside, the pub is roomy with a couple of different sections, and dogs are usually directed to the bar area or a corner where there’s space for them to lie down (especially during dining hours, they may prefer dogs not to be in the middle of the restaurant floor – understandable). The staff is very accommodating – water bowls are provided, typically if you’re at an outdoor table a bowl will be offered straight away. If you’re indoors, just ask and they will bring one to your table for your thirsty pup.
As with many places, they ask that dogs stay on leash and aren’t allowed to sit on the furniture (even if your little terrier thinks the red leather banquette is just for him!). Patrons have noted that the servers often give dogs a wee treat or plenty of attention, and you might even see the pub’s social media occasionally featuring a cute doggo visitor. If your dog is well-behaved, there’s no issue with any size or breed. The atmosphere is usually bustling but not overly raucous, so most dogs are quite content people-watching here. Plus, given its central location, Fountain Lane can be a great pit stop during a walk around the city. Your pup might appreciate a break on the cool tiles inside on a hot day or the patio on a mild evening.
Fountain Lane delivers that classic pub experience with a dog-friendly twist. You’ll get tasty local food, a pint of stout, and maybe a bit of live music – all while your pooch lounges happily at your feet. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like a regular even on your first visit, and having your dog along only adds to the homely feel.
Credit: Whites Tavern
White’s Tavern & The White’s Garden
For a combination of rich Belfast history and a lively modern scene plus full dog-friendly status – look no further than White’s Tavern and its newer extension, White’s Garden. Tucked away in Winecellar Entry (one of the atmospheric old alleyways in the city centre), White’s Tavern dates back to 1630 and proudly wears the title of Belfast’s oldest pub. Stepping inside the snug downstairs tavern feels like stepping back in time: dark wooden beams, a crackling fireplace in winter, and traditional music often playing. Upstairs, the Oyster Rooms offer a slightly more upscale dining experience with a nod to Belfast’s past. But White’s isn’t stuck in the past – next door they’ve opened White’s Garden, a vibrant beer garden and cocktail bar that brings DJ sets and fresh energy to the complex. Together, these two spaces create a fantastic experience, seamlessly blending old and new – and your dog is welcome to join in the entire venue.
Atmosphere & Offerings
In White’s Tavern proper, you’ll find a cheerful and energetic vibe on busy evenings, with live folk music or acoustic sets some nights, and a menu of classic Irish pub dishes (their Irish stew, seafood chowder, and soda bread get high marks). They pour an excellent Guinness and have a well-curated list of whiskeys. Downstairs is all about pints and traditional charm, while the Oyster Rooms upstairs serve more refined fare – including fresh local oysters when in season – in a beautifully restored setting. Now, contrast that with White’s Garden: an open-air (but often tented/covered) garden bar where on weekends you’ll hear DJ music, see colorful cocktails flowing, and possibly catch a match on big screens or a themed party night. The Garden focuses on small plates and cocktails, with favorites like wood-fired pizza, sliders, and creative gin and rum concoctions from the container bar. Essentially, you can choose your adventure: historic tavern coziness or modern garden party – all under the White’s banner.
Dog Details
Dogs are welcome both inside White’s Tavern and outside in White’s Garden, making this one of the most flexible dog-friendly setups in town. The owners only ask that dogs be kept on a lead at all times (so they don’t go wandering down the historic alley or into the kitchen!) and that inside the tavern, they stay by your table or feet. Many people actually bring their dogs to White’s precisely because there are these different areas – if your dog prefers a quieter vibe, you can sit inside the Tavern by the fire on a quiet afternoon. If your pup loves being fussed over, you might sit in the Garden where folks will undoubtedly come say hello. Water bowls are readily available (often the staff will bring one without asking, especially if you’re in the beer garden). One thing to note: to be considerate, White’s provides water bowls mainly outdoors rather than inside on the wooden floors (to avoid accidental spills).
So if you’re indoors and your pooch is parched, just signal a server and they’ll sort you out in a jiffy. White’s Tavern’s centuries-old charm even extends to dogs – it’s not uncommon to see a dog snoozing by the fireside as traditional tunes play. Meanwhile, in White’s Garden, dogs often lounge under the picnic tables, taking in the buzz of weekend revelry. Both big and small dogs are seen here; there’s no size restriction as long as your dog is well-behaved. If you’re dining, it’s best to keep your dog close to avoid any curiosity with other tables (the smell of that steak pie can be tempting, after all).
A trip to White’s is like getting a mini tour of Belfast’s pub culture, the old and the new – without leaving the entryway. The fact that your dog can accompany you through it all makes it even better. From sipping stout in an ancient tavern corner to enjoying a summer cocktail in the garden, White’s Tavern & Garden ensure you and your furry friend get a full taste of Belfast hospitality. All dogs, all humans, all welcome.
Credit: The American Bar
The American Bar
Venturing just a smidge beyond the main downtown streets (a pleasant 10-15 minute walk from City Hall towards Sailortown), you’ll find The American Bar – an enduring Belfast institution and a must-visit for dog owners who appreciate a bit of culture with their pint. Don’t let the name fool you; this is a traditional Irish bar through-and-through, named for historical reasons. Today, it’s a haven for live music, artsy events, and good conversation. Spread over two floors, The American has a snug ground-floor bar and an upstairs venue space. It’s the kind of pub where on any given night you might catch an impromptu folk session or a local band, and during the day it’s a cozy spot for a quiet pint.
Vibe & Offerings
The American Bar is well known for its impromptu music sessions and gigs especially folk, blues, and singer-songwriter nights. Poetry readings and quiz nights also make appearances, contributing to a creative, communal atmosphere. The decor is unfussy and old-school: wooden bar stools, memorabilia on the walls, a stove or fireplace adding warmth in cooler months. They have a solid selection of beers (often including a few craft brews from Northern Ireland breweries) and extensive wine list.
Food-wise, they serve delicious pub grub with an emphasis on hearty, flavourful dishes – you might find stew, burgers, and some excellent sandwiches. The clientele here ranges from older regulars who’ve been coming for decades to young music lovers and travellers following the sound of a tin whistle.
Dog Details
The American Bar scores top marks for dog-friendliness. All dogs are allowed inside the pub as well as in the outside seating area, with no restrictions on size or breed. This is great because the outdoor area, while partially covered and heated for comfort, is limited – so if it’s cold or wet, you and your pup can absolutely hunker down indoors together. The only request is that dogs be house-trained and of friendly disposition, which is fair enough.
From the moment you arrive, you’ll likely find the staff eager to meet your furry friend – water bowls will appear promptly (they keep some near the bar and at the door) and often you’ll hear, “Can I give him a wee treat?” as they produce a biscuit from behind the counter.
The American Bar actually has quite a few regular dog visitors – the local dog owners know it as a welcoming spot so your pup might even bump into some buddies. Inside, there’s usually plenty of room under the tables or near your chair for a dog to settle. The vibe is social but not too boisterous; even during live music, it tends to be more toe-tapping folk than blaring rock, so dogs generally remain calm (sometimes you’ll catch a dog watching the musicians as intently as the humans!). The bar’s owners have in the past organised dog-centric gatherings and are known to be dog lovers themselves, which explains the open-arms policy. And if you pop by in cooler weather, know that the outdoor area’s heaters make it comfy if you choose fresh air your pup can stay warm and toasty by your side.
The American Bar offers a slightly off-the-beaten-path adventure that’s well worth it for you and your dog. It’s stylish in a shabby-charm way, steeped in history but with a youthful spirit, and utterly committed to making everyone – human or canine – feel at home. Come for the music and a pint of the black stuff, stay for the friendly chats and tail wags. It’s places like this that show Belfast’s true colours as a city of warmth and inclusivity.
Final Woof
Belfast City Centre truly has you and your pup covered when it comes to a great day or night out. From cocktail bars to historic pubs, the common theme is a genuinely dog-welcoming attitude alongside top-notch hospitality for humans. Nearly all of these venues provide water bowls, treats or pats for your dog, and many host special doggie events or have even won awards for how dog-friendly they are.
The next time you’re planning pub drinks or a meal in Belfast, there’s no need to leave your best friend at home. These fifteen dog friendly Belfast pubs prove that the city’s social life can absolutely include our four-legged family members.
So cheers (and big woofs) to that.
