Nestled within the opulent grandeur of The Merchant Hotel, a five-star luxury sanctuary in Belfast, lies The Great Room Restaurant, a renowned gem in the capital, celebrated for its exquisite fine dining experience. The restaurant, housed in the hotel’s original Victorian Great Room, exudes a palatial charm that enforces a feeling of elegance and grandiosity. The awe-inspiring ambiance is further accentuated by a stunning glass cupola and an eye-catching chandelier, which casts a warm and inviting glow.
The Great Room Restaurant is a testament to the innovative culinary arts, offering seasonal menus, making them a must-visit destination in Belfast. Each dish is meticulously crafted, reflecting the restaurant’s commitment to freshness, quality, and creativity. The two AA Rosettes awarded to the restaurant appreciate the skill of its chefs in crafting dishes that are both traditional and contemporary.
Wine connoisseurs will be enchanted by the extensive selection available at The Great Room, boasting over 200 meticulously selected bottles. This impressive wine list ensures that each dining experience is complemented by the perfect pairing, elevating the flavours of the expertly crafted dishes.
The service at The Great Room is as remarkable as its cuisine. The staff, known for their professionalism and attentiveness, contribute significantly to the overall dining experience, making each visit memorable. Their knowledge and passion for hospitality shine through in every interaction, adding a personal touch with suggestions, humour and finesse.
The Great Room is not only a haven for evening fine dining but also a delightful spot for afternoon tea and breakfast. The menus for these occasions are crafted with the same attention to detail and expertise, ensuring that every visit, regardless of the time of day, is a special one.
The restaurant’s exquisite tasting menu and à la carte options are a celebration of flavours and textures. Signature dishes include the Champagne negroni, a sophisticated and bubbly aperitif, and the delicious homemade bread with Irish butter, simple yet indulgent. The native lobster raviolo is a marvel, blending the sweetness of lobster with the nutty crunch of Marcona almonds, salty tang of samphire, and a rich shellfish bisque. The confit duck terrine is another standout, perfectly paired with the sweetness of quince and sauternes, served on toasted sourdough.
Seafood and meat lovers will be enthralled by the wild sea bass, served with forest mushroom, glazed salsify, and a delicate chicken sauce; or the Thornhill duck breast, a distinctive blend of flavours with braised red cabbage, fondant potato, and blackcurrant. The cauliflower gratin and honey-glazed carrot side dishes are perfect accompaniments, adding a comforting touch to the meal. For dessert, the swan profiteroles offer a whimsical yet luxurious end to the dining experience. Of course the only way to end the meal is with an Irish coffee, this one being rich and robust – the perfect digestif.
The Great Room at The Merchant Hotel in Belfast truly exceeds the ordinary. It combines the elegance of Victorian architecture with the innovation of modern cuisine in a luxurious environment, complete with impeccable service. It is an experience that is both comforting and exciting, traditional and innovative; but above all, memorable.
