The RI City Guide: Belfast

December is an exhausting month, one where (if you’re lucky) a city break is needed before the festivities truly begin on the 24th. Belfast resident, @melissariddel, shows us around her city, spotlighting her favourite places for coffee, culture and after-dark drinks.


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What are some of your favourite areas of Belfast, or street style spots to go to?


Cathedral Quarter is one of my favourite spots, it’s got it all going on. Great coffee shops, bars, restaurants. I shoot a lot of my street style here in the cobbled streets, with cool graffiti walls by St Anne’s Cathedral and St Anne’s Square. City Hall is also a nice backdrop for pics.


We need a cosy caffeine fix. Any local spots you love?


Neighbourhood, General Merchants and the Juice Jar are for sure my top three coffee spots.


And once we’ve had our coffee... Any artsy places like museums or galleries that you love?


The Ulster Museum has a fantastic collection of modern and traditional art - and it’s set in the Botanic Gardens which are so pretty for a city walk (it’s got a cool fashion section too!) There are lots of indie galleries in Cathedral Quarter like the Fenderesky Gallery which is a hidden gem.

Where are you headed for a nice walk on a winter day?


Seapark is my favourite because being by the water makes me feel calm and it’s the loveliest walk.


After all that exploring, we’re feeling hungry. What’s your go-to spot for dinner, or somewhere you’d love to try?


My favourite restaurant is James St South, I always go for my birthday!  Yugo is top of my list to try, it’s been recommended so many times but a booking is definitely essential because it really is so popular!


It's 8pm, we've got Prosecco and sequins ready. Any recommendations for a fun night out in Belfast?


I love The Jailhouse, at this time of year. Joy’s Entry where it’s located looks incredible and EVERYONE stops for a picture in their sequins!