McHughs Bar & Restaurant — Restaurant in Belfast

McHugh's, nestled in the heart of Northern Ireland, offers a quintessential pub experience that goes beyond expectations. During my visit, I had the pleasure of indulging in their renowned fish and chips, and the experience was nothing short of extraordinary, earning them a well-deserved five stars.

Let's start with the main event – the fish and chips. It's no exaggeration to say that the portion size was colossal. The fish, enveloped in a perfect coat of golden batter, was not only visually appealing but also a culinary masterpiece. With each bite, the crispy exterior gave way to a succulent, flaky interior that surpassed my expectations. The accompanying chips, thick-cut and golden, were seasoned to perfection, providing an ideal balance to the dish.

Now, let's talk about the pub itself. McHugh's creates an ambiance that is quintessentially Irish – warm, inviting, and steeped in tradition. The rustic decor, the comforting hum of conversation, and the soft glow of ambient lighting make it an ideal setting for a hearty meal. The pub atmosphere added an extra layer of authenticity to the overall dining experience, making it more than just a meal but a cultural immersion into Northern Ireland's rich pub heritage.

The staff at McHugh's played a crucial role in enhancing the overall dining experience. Their friendliness and attentiveness added a personal touch, making me feel like a welcomed guest in this charming establishment. The combination of excellent service and a relaxed atmosphere created an environment where I could savor not just the food but the essence of Northern Irish hospitality.

In conclusion, McHugh's deserves a solid five stars for delivering an exceptional fish and chips experience in a setting that perfectly captures the spirit of a Northern Irish pub. It's a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy hearty, flavorful cuisine in an atmosphere that feels like a...

I wanted to come in here last summer when I pass by this place. Didn’t imagine it’s happening so fast! Really enjoyed the meal, hearty and not too heavy.

The menu is a bit different from my expectation because of the festive season. I was coming for the famous boxty and was lucky to find them still present as part of the main dishes.

Confit duck leg is flavorful, with a crispy skin. Boxty comes in a delicate golden crust, smooth, airy, and not heavy at all. A tall mashed potato pancake. (It’s hard to choose between the pump boiled and fried one and flat grilled one, but the former is the lighter option.) The tomato bean coddle is simply tasty, and the pieces of bacon add smokiness.

The smoked black tea (Lapsang souchong), which I don’t usually drink at home, some how gives a Christmassy, fireside feeling.

The staff are very friendly and cheerful and really familiar with the menu for recommendations and insights. The area is spacious with well-lit spots, which is unusual for pubs— great for reading ^^ The historic buildings itself is important for history lovers. The price us decent for the taste...

I passed McHughs on my first night and decided that I had to visit, on the name alone.

Visited the bar the first night, hoping to get food. I learned that I couldn't order food unless I was in the restaurant (upstairs), which was booked up all night; they seem to be very busy when a rugby game is on. Ordered a 3£ Guinness (game day price; not sure what it would normally cost), drank it, and left.

Came back the next night to get dinner in the restaurant. No problem getting in, we were the only table for the first hour that we were there (at 18:30 on a Sunday), and only a couple tables filled during our 2 hour visit.

Ordered the cheapest item, which was a 10.50£ burger. What an excellent choice! It was incredibly juicy and delicious.

Would have rated 5/5, but was served the wrong drink. I requested soda water, but received something sweet and slightly syrupy (but otherwise flavourless). This may have just been a problem with regional language differences. Otherwise,...