About to Hit the Big 1-8? Here’s Where to Celebrate Your 18th Birthday in Belfast!
So you’re finally legal. Congrats!
You can officially vote, buy a lottery ticket (though we don’t recommend blowing your birthday money on that), and maybe even get a tattoo without needing parental permission.
But let’s be real, the first thing on your mind is probably where to go to properly celebrate this newfound freedom. Fear not, future adult, Belfast is a place that knows how to have a good time.
We’re talking about a city with a history as rich and complex as a perfectly aged whiskey, a nightlife that pulsates with energy, and a surprising number of options for your 18th birthday shenanigans.
Restaurants
Dine at Howard Street Restaurant
– Media credit to: howardstrestaurant
Location: 56 Howard St
Contact: +44 28 9024 8362
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Saturday – 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM
Pricing: £££
Since opening its doors in 2013, Howard Street has become a must-visit for those who crave high-quality dishes made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients.
This is a spot where cosy meets chic: a loft-style, industrial-inspired setting with just the right balance of sophistication and warmth. It’s the kind of place that feels perfect for a special celebration with friends and family.
The menu at Howard Street is a delightful blend of Irish, European, and British cuisines. Everyone can find a favourite here because of the vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available.
Expect an array of thoughtfully prepared dishes, from inventive starters to filling main courses and indulgent desserts. Each is crafted with an eye for detail that shows their passion for culinary excellence.
| Pro Tip: Arriving early? Take advantage of Howard Street’s pre-theatre menu, offered from Tuesday to Saturday between 5 PM and 6 PM. It’s a great way to enjoy a selection of their flavorful dishes at a fixed price. |
Experience fusion cuisine at Yügo
– Media credit to: yugo_belfast
Location: 3 Wellington St
Contact: +44 28 9694 7265
Operating hours:
- Tuesday – 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Wednesday to Saturday – 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Pricing: ££
If you’re after a bold culinary adventure with a unique twist for your birthday, Yügo is the place to be. Known for its contemporary Asian-inspired dishes infused with an unmistakable Irish flair, it’s the kind of spot that turns any meal into a celebration.
The vibe? Modern, lively, and just a bit edgy. It has an industrial-style interior and energetic music that sets the scene for a fun night out.
Yügo’s menu invites you to explore a world of flavours through its selection of small plates, sushi, and bao buns. It’s all about sampling here, so get ready to savour a bit of everything.
Fan favourites include the Iberico pork with black garlic and truffle vinaigrette. Crispy pork dumplings with a spicy kick are also a hit.
Plus, the soft-shell crab bao with kewpie and cucumber is perfectly designed to make an impression.
| Pro Tip: If you’re dining with friends who have dietary preferences, make sure to ask about Yügo’s vegetarian and vegan options. They’ve got plant-based twists that ensure everyone at the table gets to experience their flavorful dishes. |
Savour Italian delights at Coppi
– Media credit to: coppibelfast
Location: Saint Anne’s Square
Contact: +44 28 9031 1959
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 12:00 PM to 9:30 PM
- Sunday – 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Pricing: ££
For a taste of Venice right at home, look no further than Coppi—a local favourite since 2012.
Coppi’s ambience is as inviting as its menu. The open-plan dining room flows seamlessly into a terrace with cosy heaters and a weather-proof awning.
It makes every celebration feel just right, no matter the season.
Inspired by the lively cicchetti bars of Italy, Coppi’s menu is all about sharing—think fresh handmade pasta and Italian-inspired entrées that make you feel like you’re dining in a bustling piazza.
Must-try dishes include the rich, flavourful duck ragu with porcini mushroom ravioli. There’s also the bucatini alla norma that’s perfectly spiced with tomato and eggplant.
| Pro Tip: Don’t miss the salt and chilli squid – Coppi’s signature dish that regulars rave about for its perfect blend of heat and crunch. |
Host a group dinner at Pizza Punks
– Media credit to: pizzapunksofficial
Location: 20-22 Waring St
Contact: +44 28 9031 4110
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Pricing: £
Planning a birthday bash? Pizza Punks is where the party’s at. Famous for their artisan sourdough pizzas, they let you go wild with unlimited toppings – all for free.
Want pineapple, jalapeños, and truffle oil? You got it.
This “build-your-own” style means everyone gets exactly what they crave, making it perfect for a group with diverse tastes.
The vibe at Pizza Punks is electric, with punk rock blasting and edgy décor that gives the place a rebellious charm. Throw in their selection of craft beers and quirky cocktails, and you’ve got a night of pizza-fueled fun.
| Pro Tip: Got a big crew? Pizza Punks can handle it. They’re ready to host groups of up to 25, so gather your friends and let the pizza party begin. |
Nightlife Spots
Party with the gang at Club Lux
Location: 16 Dunbar St
Contact: +44 28 9031 2807
Operating hours:
- Wednesday – 1:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Thursday – 1:00 PM to 2:00 AM
- Friday – 12:00 PM to 2:00 AM
- Saturday – 9:00 PM to 3:00 AM
Turning 18? Well, it’s time to drink that first (and maybe more) glass of alcohol. Club Lux is just the place to kick things off.
Known for its chic design and high-energy vibe, it’s the spot to gather your friends, let loose, and experience a true night out.
One of Club Lux’s best-kept secrets? Their VIP table bookings are totally free, often with complimentary bubbly to add a little extra sparkle to your big night.
It’s the perfect way to get that VIP treatment without breaking the bank.
| Pro Tip: Make sure to check out their lineup of events – Club Lux hosts epic student nights. They feature top DJs, plus VIP packages with free drinks that make the night even sweeter. |
Sip craft cocktails at The Perch Rooftop Bar
– Media credit to: perchbelfast
Location: 42 Franklin St
Contact: +44 28 9024 8000
Operating hours:
- Thursday – 3:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Friday – 3:00 PM to 1:00 AM
- Saturday – 1:00 PM to 1:00 AM
- Sunday – 1:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Perched atop the historic Linen House, The Perch offers a stylish escape with panoramic city views. It’s perfect for celebrating your milestone in style.
This rooftop oasis is known for its talented bartenders and lively yet elegant vibe. These features create just the right ambience for a night to remember.
Looking to kick things up a notch? The Perch’s Bottomless Brunch every Friday to Sunday is the ultimate way to celebrate.
For £35 per person, you and your friends can indulge in endless pizza, cocktails, beer, and prosecco.
As a bonus, there are also live DJs on Fridays and Saturdays. Soulful live singers take centre stage on Sundays.
You can even pair your drinks with their delicious stone-baked pizzas, with vegan options available to keep everyone happy.
| Pro Tip: Got a big group? The Perch can be privately hired. They offer custom packages with everything from bespoke cocktails and pizzas to live entertainment and even cocktail trees. |
Relax with live jazz at Bert’s Jazz Bar
– Media credit to: bertsjazzbar
Location: 16 Skipper St
Contact: +44 28 9026 2713
Who says birthdays should be all about clubbing? Step into Bert’s Jazz Bar, Belfast’s only dedicated jazz venue.
Here, you can experience the refined charm of a 1930s New York jazz club.
With live jazz filling the air seven nights a week, Bert’s offers an unforgettable backdrop for your celebration. They bring in talented musicians from across Northern Ireland and beyond for a truly dynamic vibe.
The French bistro-inspired menu is as classy as the music. It changes with the seasons to keep things fresh and delicious.
You’ll find an array of dishes to satisfy every taste, all perfectly paired with a list of carefully crafted cocktails that complete the experience.
Just a heads-up: on Friday and Saturday nights, there’s a £10 stage charge per person for bookings after 8:30 pm. Trust us – it’s honestly worth every penny for the jazz-infused magic.
| Pro Tip: For parties of six or more, it’s best to call ahead to make sure Bert’s has the space to give you the birthday night you deserve. |
Unique Experiences
Conquer the escape rooms at Timescape
– Media credit to: timescapegames
Location: 3rd Floor, 119 Royal Ave
Contact: +44 28 9099 5275
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Why settle for a typical birthday celebration when you can dive into an adventure? Timescape offers immersive escape room experiences that put your problem-solving skills to the test as you race against the clock.
Perfect for groups of friends looking for a thrilling way to celebrate, Timescape’s rooms each bring a unique storyline and set of challenges to the table.
Just imagine racing to secure the watertight doors on the sinking RMS Titanic in “Titanic: The Final Hour.” Better yet, step back in time to 1888 London in “Jack The Ripper: Murder Mystery” to solve one of history’s most notorious cases.
These rooms demand teamwork, quick thinking, and a bit of bravery. It’s the perfect mix for bonding with friends over shared challenges.
Pricing is also group-friendly, with the cost per person dropping as your group size increases.
A duo would pay £56 (£28 per person). Meanwhile, the rate for a group of seven is just £161 (£23 per person).
| Pro Tip: Timescape frequently runs promotions and discounts on their website and social media channels, so be sure to keep an eye out for deals to make your escape room adventure even more memorable. |
Attend a drag show at Union Street Bar
– Media credit to: unionstreetbarbelfast
Location: 8-14 Union St
Contact: +44 28 9031 6060
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday to Thursday – 5:00 PM to 1:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 12:00 PM to 1:30 AM
- Sunday – 1:00 PM to 1:00 AM
Set in a 19th-century shoe factory, Union Street Bar is a true multi-level experience. It blends historic charm with modern nightlife across three unique floors.
This spot is known for its lively events lineup, ensuring there’s always something happening any night of the week.
One standout? The legendary “CabarGAY” show every Sunday is Belfast’s biggest drag extravaganza.
It features cabaret, live acts, and bingo, all rolled into one unforgettable evening.
And if belting out tunes is more your style, don’t miss “Karaoke with Tina Leggs Tantrum” on Saturdays at 5 pm. Just be sure to book early, as Tina’s fan base fills up spots fast.
| Pro Tip: Catch great value at Union Street Bar by heading to their popular events like “CabarGAY.” With free entry, you can celebrate big without breaking the bank. |