Cornmarket
A bustling Belfast street renowned for its vibrant cafe culture, diverse shops, and top-tier coffee experiences.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the weekend rush
Cornmarket
Best Time
Beat the weekend rush

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A bustling Belfast street renowned for its vibrant cafe culture, diverse shops, and top-tier coffee experiences.
"Loved everything about this place, the staff were super friendly and attentive!"
☕ Coffee Lover's Paradise
Seek out Trait or Canteen for exceptional coffee experiences.
⏰ Beat the Crowds
Visit on weekdays for a more relaxed atmosphere and quicker service.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vibrant Cafe Scene
Throughout Cornmarket
Discover unique cafes with diverse menus and top-tier coffee. A true foodie haven!

Friendly & Attentive Staff
Various Cafes
Experience warm welcomes and efficient service that makes you feel right at home.

Flavorful Brunch Options
Jamaica Blue
Enjoy creative dishes like the Veggie Brunch, packed with delicious tastes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Coffee Connoisseur's Quest
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Belfast city centre coffee
☕ Coffee Lover's Paradise
Seek out Trait or Canteen for exceptional coffee experiences.
⏰ Beat the Crowds
Visit on weekdays for a more relaxed atmosphere and quicker service.
Cafe recommendations in City Centre?
Where can I get a good coffee in Belfast?
💰 Oat Milk Costs Extra
Be aware that alternative milks like oat milk often incur an additional charge.
🍳 Brunch Variety
Explore diverse brunch menus, but check portion sizes against the price.
Best coffee in Belfast city centre?
Tips
from all over the internet
☕ Coffee Lover's Paradise
Seek out Trait or Canteen for exceptional coffee experiences.
⏰ Beat the Crowds
Visit on weekdays for a more relaxed atmosphere and quicker service.
💰 Oat Milk Costs Extra
Be aware that alternative milks like oat milk often incur an additional charge.
🍳 Brunch Variety
Explore diverse brunch menus, but check portion sizes against the price.
🌟 Top-Tier Coffee
Many cafes offer coffee that's far better than big chains.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise Cornmarket's vibrant atmosphere and the high quality of coffee available in its numerous cafes, with staff frequently noted for their friendliness and attentiveness. While the food is generally flavorful, some reviewers find the portion sizes at certain establishments to be a bit small for the price. Service can occasionally be slow during peak times.
"I decided to make my first stop in town to Jamaica Blue after hearing great things about this place. Unfortunately, my expected experience was not entirely what I was expecting.
First of all, I have to give great thanks to the staff who accommodated me from the beginning of my visit. I was given a clear run-through of what I had to do, how to order, and they explained alternative options available for me when ordering my meal. The service time was quick, friendly and left a great impression of me as a first time visitor.
However, when it came to the food, I felt myself wishing for more. I ordered the Veggie Brunch (toasted sourdough with avocado spread and a sun-dried tomato hummus, plum tomatoes, spinach, a plant based sausage, mushrooms & chilli jam) and substituted the mushrooms for an additional sausage. At the price of £12.90, I was expecting there to be more on my plate, perhaps a second slice of toast, or maybe an optional egg for those who'd want one. In summary, while it was delicious and I thought the variety of tastes were fantastic, the pricing means that I am not overall satisfied with it.
The coffee, on the other hand, quenched that caffeinated thirst lingering inside me. The additional charge (which is unfortunately a common thing across nearly all coffee shops) for oat milk felt bitter. The coffee itself did not taste bitter thankfully, and I was very happy by the end of my cup.
Overall, whilst I am disappointed in the pricing, I have had a good experience with this cafe. I would recommend it to others for coffee if they are in the area."
Emily Nolan
"Loved everything about this place, the staff were super friendly and attentive nothing was too much hassle and service was fast! The menu offers something different compared to other cafes in town and really flavoursome, coffee here is also top tier! We just came across the cafe while shopping one Saturday morning and so glad we gave it a try to set us up for the day. There are two levels and seating outdoors. Very clean and the decor is fresh and welcoming. Give it a try !"
Cara
"When this place is busy often the service is a little slow. Quite often we get our coffee then have to wait for our cake.. or vice versa.. good coffee and great place. The young blonde haired girl (sorry don’t have a name) is very good, efficient and extremely polite- hats off to her…"
Paul H
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cornmarket is a central shopping street in Belfast, easily accessible by public transport. Numerous bus routes stop nearby, and it's a short walk from Great Victoria Street and Botanic train stations. If driving, be aware that parking can be limited and expensive in the immediate vicinity. Consider using a park and ride option if available.
Yes, Cornmarket is primarily a pedestrianized area, making it very walkable and pleasant for exploring shops and cafes.
The closest major transport hubs are Great Victoria Street Station and Botanic Station, both offering train and bus services. Many city bus routes also serve the immediate area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Cornmarket is a public street and shopping area, so no tickets are required to enter or walk around. Entry to individual shops and cafes is free.
Most shops in Cornmarket follow standard retail hours, typically opening around 9 or 10 AM and closing between 5:30 PM and 6 PM. Some cafes may stay open later. It's always best to check individual store hours if you have a specific place in mind.
There are no entry fees for cafes in Cornmarket. You only pay for what you order.
While some cafes might accept reservations, especially for larger groups, many operate on a walk-in basis. It's advisable to call ahead if you have a specific cafe in mind and are visiting during peak times.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Cornmarket offers a diverse range of retail options, from high street fashion brands and electronics stores to independent boutiques and gift shops. You'll find something for everyone.
Many of the newer establishments and larger stores in Cornmarket are generally accessible. However, older buildings or smaller independent shops might have limited accessibility. It's recommended to check with individual venues if you have specific accessibility needs.
Public restrooms are not widely advertised in Cornmarket itself. Your best bet is to use the facilities within cafes or larger department stores.
Cornmarket is a bustling and vibrant area, especially during the day and on weekends. It's a popular spot for shopping, meeting friends, and grabbing a coffee.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
For excellent coffee, Reddit users highly recommend Trait and Canteen. Many reviews also praise the coffee at Jamaica Blue, noting it's top-tier and better than big chains.
Jamaica Blue is frequently mentioned for its brunch options, including a popular Veggie Brunch. While delicious, some reviewers note that portion sizes can be a bit small for the price.
Yes, many cafes like Jamaica Blue offer dedicated vegan and vegetarian dishes, such as the vegan brunch. The variety of tastes is often highlighted as a positive.
Prices can vary, but expect to pay around £12-£13 for a substantial brunch dish at places like Jamaica Blue. Coffee prices are comparable to other city cafes, with potential extra charges for alternative milks.
Service speed can vary. While some cafes are praised for being quick and efficient, others can experience slow service, especially when busy, leading to waits for coffee or food.
📸 📸 Photography
Cornmarket offers a lively streetscape with interesting architecture and bustling cafe scenes. Capturing the vibrant atmosphere of shoppers and the unique decor of cafes can make for great photos.
Cafes with fresh, welcoming decor and outdoor seating areas, like Jamaica Blue, can be quite photogenic. The presentation of food and coffee also makes for appealing shots.
Morning light can be lovely for capturing the street before it gets too crowded. Evenings can offer a different ambiance with cafe lights.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
☕ Coffee Aficionados
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Belfast Coffee Scene: Beyond the Chains
When visiting cafes like Jamaica Blue, expect a focus on flavorful coffee, often described as 'top-tier'. However, be mindful that the trend of charging extra for alternative milks, such as oat milk, is prevalent here. While the coffee itself is usually praised for its taste, this additional cost can sometimes be a point of contention for visitors.
Overall, Cornmarket offers a refreshing alternative for those who appreciate a well-crafted cup of coffee, with several establishments dedicated to providing a superior caffeinated experience.
Navigating the Crowds: Tips for a Smoother Visit
When cafes are busy, service speed can sometimes be an issue, with reports of waiting for coffee or food even after being seated. If you're on a tight schedule or prefer a quieter atmosphere, aiming for off-peak times is your best bet. This allows you to enjoy the vibrant energy of Cornmarket without feeling overwhelmed by the crowds, making your visit more enjoyable and efficient.
Brunch Delights and Dining Decisions
However, a recurring theme in reviews is the perception of portion sizes relative to price. Some diners feel that for the cost, the portions could be more generous, or that additional options like a second slice of toast or an egg could enhance the value. While the food is generally well-received for its flavor, this aspect is worth considering when making your dining choices. The cafe also offers vegan options, catering to a wider range of dietary preferences.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit