Whites Tavern is a pub and restaurant on Winecellar Entry, a narrow old trading lane in Belfast city centre. The building received Belfast’s first tavern licence in 1630, and its original bar still has timber beams, stonework and an open fire. You can settle in for a pint of Guinness or explore the newer beer hall and garden spaces. The menu includes Irish stew, fish and chips and other pub dishes; live music adds to the atmosphere on some nights.
A tavern on Winecellar Entry
Whites Tavern is at 2-4 Winecellar Entry, a narrow lane once associated with wine and spirits merchants. The building received Belfast’s first tavern licence in 1630, and the pub lays claim to being the city’s oldest tavern. Its long history is visible in the original room, with timber beams, exposed stonework and dark wood inside.
The lane puts the pub close to Belfast city-centre sights and Victoria Square. Its tucked-away entrance can be easy to miss, so look for Winecellar Entry rather than expecting a prominent frontage on a main street.
Different rooms, different moods
The older tavern room is the place to settle beside the open fire when it is lit. It has a quieter, traditional feel, while the beer hall is a more contemporary space suited to groups. There is also a garden area with its own bar. The different rooms give you a choice between a low-key drink and a livelier evening without changing venues.
The pub also has a separate restaurant area upstairs, known as the Oyster Rooms. Whites combines these newer spaces with historic details, including brickwork and beams, rather than relying on the old room alone.
What to eat and drink
Guinness is a natural choice here, and the drinks selection also includes beer, spirits and whiskey. For food, the Irish stew is a hearty pub classic; fish and chips is another familiar option. The menu also includes dishes such as gnocchi, so you are not limited to traditional pub fare. Irish coffee and chocolate cake are among the listed drinks and desserts.
Live music takes place at the pub, alongside other entertainment such as televised sport. The atmosphere can shift with the room and the evening: a quieter pint by the fire is a different experience from a busy night in the bar areas. If you have a particular reason for visiting, such as live music or a seat in the historic room, check ahead and allow for a wait at busy times.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is Whites Tavern in Belfast?
It is at 2-4 Winecellar Entry, Belfast, in a narrow lane in the city centre.
How old is Whites Tavern?
The building received Belfast’s first tavern licence in 1630. Whites Tavern is known as the city’s oldest tavern.
What food can you get at Whites Tavern?
The menu includes Irish stew, fish and chips and gnocchi, as well as Irish coffee and chocolate cake.
Does Whites Tavern have live music?
Yes, live music takes place at the pub. Check ahead for details if you are planning your visit around a performance.
