Brennan’s Bar

Was going to give them 4* as I’m a fan of unpretentious dive bars (which pretty much sums up Brennan’s) but this isn’t a «must go» destination for me. That said, prices are reasonable, food is good pub grub and you can sometimes grab a booth. So you can’t go wrong here unless you’re looking for a little class.
Service is as expected for Belfast (= mediocre) and Yanks (like me) should remember that they may not have ketchup for your fish & chips.

We stopped in for a few pints and some dinner. We had the seafood chowder and fish and chips. Both were pretty good. This is just the kind of bar we like to come to and unwind after working all day.

Nice bar. Lively peeps.

Brennan’s is a funny old bar. In its previous incarnation it had a reputation as being a ‘gamblers pub’ which I always found a bit off putting. On a recent visit there for a quick catch-​up with friends I realised it still hasn’t shaken off this image. The bar itself is nice but completely dominated by large screens showing sport (this day it was the dreaded golf) and a small smattering of barflies watched the game with something approaching disinterest.
Hardly an inspiring start but after a few beers the place started to look a bit better and we actually had a most enjoyable afternoon. The beers and good and fairly priced so everyone was keen to get them in and the quiet room meant we were able to catch-​up without interruption or too loud music.
Pros: Nice bar, friendly staff.
Cons: Older more boring crowd.

After unsuccessfully trying to get a seat at Made In Belfast (very sad!) discovering Irene & Nans was closed for refurbishments, finding the Crown absolutely packed, we eventually decided to cut our loses and take advantage of the £7.95 meal deal for a pint and fish & chips at Brennans Bar. Now I know this isn’t bad by any standards but I was fully let down by the food. Ok, I hear you ask, what did I expect gourmet food? No, but not slimy batter, burnt chips or hardly cooked peas… So, I wouldn’t say I’m a huge fan, though it’s probably Ok for quick pint. Yes the food is cheap but personally I’d rather pay more and get more out of my experience. The beer wasn’t bad and admittedly the wee bar maid was good fun. If I hadn’t eaten here I probably would rate it higher but as far as food goes I was disappointed.

This bar has been part of the wallpaper of Belfast ever since I can remember. I think I have vague memories of my Grandfather getting a lift down here for a tipple or two when he would stay weekends with us, as I know he liked to have a flutter on the horses once in a while. This bar is well run and pleasant, but not a place for a girls night out — very much for older men who like to enjoy watching the races and having a pint or two. It’s centrally located and close to the bookies so I’m sure it’s perfect for it’s clientele. They sometimes offer entertainment, music and karaōke but it’s for a certain crowd, not necessarily the youngest crowd — but it’s very much appreciated by its patrons.

This bar used to have the best name in Belfast — ‘The Beaten Docket’ and is a popular haunt for those who enjoy a flutter on the sport of kings. There is usually a horse race on the big screen, which isn’t for everyone but I think its pretty good for a bit of a change.
The food, served all day, is a decent price with ok quality. Don’t be expecting to write home about it but it will certainly fill a hole and not leave you hungry.
The pints and other drinks on offer and pretty standard and so is the atmosphere but it can liven up a bit later on in the evening as it gets going with some karaōke and a bit of craic. Situated right in the city centre and really near The Crown it is a good stop off on a pub crawl but also has a bit of character that will make you want to head back.