New bar and street food hangout, Haymarket, opens today

Belfast’s newest bar and street food hangout is set to open its doors today (Friday, July 2), creating 50 jobs in the hospitality sector.

Haymarket, located on Gresham Street, will occupy the former Hudson bar following a £250,000 investment to transform the venue and kickstart the rejuvenation of the Smithfield and Union Quarter.

Guests will see a total transformation to the interior of the bar and the arcade, which will combine a chic, relaxed vibe with funky lighting alongside some cheeky local references to add to its atmospheric appeal. A spacious outdoor arcade provides further space for alfresco dining. Exclusive VIP areas are also available for guests to pre-book for celebrations or corporate meet-ups.

Haymarket will serve up an all-day menu of moreish street food, including loaded fries, nachos, pizzas, burgers and vegan dishes. A dedicated gin bar will be positioned on the first floor, complete with up to 40 gins, while an expanded drinks menu will offer classic and bespoke cocktails and champion local liquor, beer, and ale.

While a stripped back entertainment policy will be in place until further Covid-19 restrictions have been eased, the venue intends to showcase the best of local talent and musicians later this summer.

Michael Stewart, Director of Hospitality at Haymarket, said: “We are thrilled to bring a new and exciting offering to Belfast, which reinforces the hospitality sector’s determination and commitment to bounce back from the pandemic. Entering from Royal Avenue we have started the transformation of an iconic building, which was a Haymarket from the end of the 19th Century. We are delighted to be part of Belfast’s regeneration for the next generation, and all of us who aren’t quite old enough to remember the Haymarket but have watched Belfast grow and evolve.”

Haymarket will be open for both walk-ins and some pre-booked reservations.

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