The Dirty Onion and Yardbird
Restaurant | Belfast | Northern Ireland | United Kingdom
Traditional Irish music in pub
"The Dirty Onion and Yardbird" is a unique restaurant and pub duo in Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK, that combines tradition and modern cuisine in one of the city's oldest buildings. Located in the heart of the vibrant Cathedral Quarter, it consists of two distinct yet interconnected experiences: "The Dirty Onion," a traditional Irish pub on the ground floor, and "Yardbird," a rotisserie chicken restaurant on the upper floor. This combination makes the venue a popular attraction for locals and tourists alike, seeking both authentic Irish hospitality and high-quality food.
Visit beer garden in Belfast
The building itself is a piece of history. Dating back to 1780, it is considered the oldest surviving structure in Belfast. Originally, it served as a warehouse for spirits starting in 1921 and was known as "STACK N," which can still be seen today through a large red "N" on the facade. The distinctive wooden exterior has been carefully restored and now frames the beer garden, which is regarded as one of the largest in Belfast. Inside, low ceilings with exposed wooden beams and unplastered brick walls tell tales of the past, while modern elements, such as a spacious courtyard, add a contemporary touch. Especially in the colder months, a cozy turf fire in the pub invites patrons to warm up, while the beer garden is a highlight during sunny summer days.
Experience authentic Irish hospitality
"The Dirty Onion" is the heart of the ground floor and a classic Irish pub known for its lively atmosphere. Music is at the forefront here: live performances take place seven nights a week, focusing on traditional Irish music as well as contemporary bands and acoustic sessions. Traditional "Trad Sessions" are particularly popular on Sundays, and Saturdays see celebrations that go late into the night. The drink selection is extensive and reflects the rich drinking culture—from local craft beers like "Yardsman Belfast Pale Ale" to an impressive array of Irish whiskeys, which are also part of guided whiskey tours through Belfast. The pub intentionally does not take reservations, embracing a "first come, first served" principle that enhances the spontaneous, sociable vibe.
Rotisserie chicken restaurant in Belfast
On the upper floor, "Yardbird" offers a culinary experience specializing in rotisserie chicken. The philosophy here is simple: high-quality food, served quickly and with bold flavors. The "Rotisserie Chicken" is the star—locally sourced, free-range chicken is marinated for 24 hours in a blend of lemon, buttermilk, and paprika, then dry-rubbed, cooked, and perfectly roasted on the spit to remain juicy and flavorful. It is especially popular when paired with sides like "Sweet Potato Fries" or as part of the "Booze’n’Bird" deal, which serves a whole chicken with two sides and drinks. The "BBQ Ribs" also impress with their tender texture and spicy glaze. "Yardbird" is family-friendly, offering a relaxed atmosphere that contrasts with the lively pub scene below. On busy nights, there is a handy buzzer system that lets guests in the pub wait until a table becomes available.
Historic building in Belfast
The menu at "Yardbird" follows a small but thoughtful concept that includes options like "Wings" with various glazes—such as "Buffalo" or "Smoky Chipotle"—alongside chicken. All dishes are freshly prepared on-site, and the open kitchen allows guests to watch the cooking process. Dessert lovers will find homemade sweets that round off the meal. The dishes are designed to be both satisfying and focused on quality and flavor, making the restaurant a favorite among chicken lovers.
The history of the place is shaped by its long past as a warehouse, yet its transformation into a pub and restaurant duo has breathed new life into it. The restoration preserved historical elements like the wooden facade and brick walls, while modern additions like the courtyard and the rotisserie kitchen offer contemporary comfort. The staff is known for their friendliness and professionalism, whether recommending a whiskey in the pub or serving in "Yardbird." However, on busy days, it can get crowded and noisy, which may not appeal to everyone, but is often seen as part of the authentic experience.
