Cornmarket - Image 1
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Cornmarket

3.7
·334 reviews·, United Kingdom

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Beat the weekend rush

CrowdLow
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Cornmarket - Image 1

Cornmarket

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Beat the weekend rush

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

3.7
(334 reviews)

"Loved everything about this place, the staff were super friendly and attentive!"

Vertical photo
TIP

☕ 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vibrant Cafe Scene

Vibrant Cafe Scene

Throughout Cornmarket

Discover unique cafes with diverse menus and top-tier coffee. A true foodie haven!

Friendly & Attentive Staff

Friendly & Attentive Staff

Various Cafes

Experience warm welcomes and efficient service that makes you feel right at home.

Flavorful Brunch Options

Flavorful Brunch Options

Jamaica Blue

Enjoy creative dishes like the Veggie Brunch, packed with delicious tastes.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Cornmarket can get incredibly busy, especially on weekends. For a more relaxed experience and better seating, aim for weekday mornings or early afternoons. Avoid peak lunch hours if you dislike crowds.

Coffee Connoisseur's Quest

If you're on the hunt for excellent coffee, you're in luck. While many cafes offer decent brews, some stand out. Be prepared for potential extra charges for alternative milks, a common practice here.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Beat the weekend rush
Crowd
Low
When
Early afternoons
Why
Quieter vibe, good for lunch
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Belfast city centre coffee

☕ Coffee Lover's Paradise

Seek out Trait or Canteen for exceptional coffee experiences. Reddit

⏰ Beat the Crowds

Visit on weekdays for a more relaxed atmosphere and quicker service. Reddit

reddit.com

Cafe recommendations in City Centre?

reddit.com

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. Reddit

🍳 Brunch Variety

Explore diverse brunch menus, but check portion sizes against the price. Reddit

reddit.com

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. Reddit

⏰ Beat the Crowds

Visit on weekdays for a more relaxed atmosphere and quicker service. Reddit

💰 Oat Milk Costs Extra

Be aware that alternative milks like oat milk often incur an additional charge. Reddit

🍳 Brunch Variety

Explore diverse brunch menus, but check portion sizes against the price. Reddit

🌟 Top-Tier Coffee

Many cafes offer coffee that's far better than big chains. Reddit

What Travellers Say

3.7
(334 reviews)

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

Excellent coffee quality
Friendly and attentive staff
Unique cafe menus

What People Dislike

Portion size vs. price
Occasional slow service

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. Reddit

Yes, Cornmarket is primarily a pedestrianized area, making it very walkable and pleasant for exploring shops and cafes. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

There are no entry fees for cafes in Cornmarket. You only pay for what you order. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🧭 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Public restrooms are not widely advertised in Cornmarket itself. Your best bet is to use the facilities within cafes or larger department stores. Reddit

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. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Morning light can be lovely for capturing the street before it gets too crowded. Evenings can offer a different ambiance with cafe lights. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Cornmarket can be a fun outing for families, offering a variety of shops to explore. Cafes like Jamaica Blue provide kid-friendly menu options and a welcoming atmosphere. Reddit However, be prepared for potential crowds, especially on weekends, which might make navigating with strollers a bit challenging. Consider visiting during quieter weekday hours for a more relaxed experience. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While Cornmarket offers a range of dining and shopping, it's not exclusively a budget destination. Coffee prices are standard, but be aware of extra charges for alternative milks. Reddit For brunch, while delicious, some find the portion sizes at places like Jamaica Blue to be a bit small for the price. Reddit Look for deals or opt for simpler cafe fare to manage costs. Exploring the shops can be done without spending, making it a good place for window shopping. Reddit

☕ Coffee Aficionados

If coffee is your priority, Cornmarket is a must-visit. Reddit users rave about Trait and Canteen for their exceptional brews. Reddit Even cafes like Jamaica Blue are praised for their 'top-tier' coffee, offering a superior experience compared to larger chains. Reddit While oat milk might cost extra, the quality of the coffee itself is a major draw for many visitors. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Belfast Coffee Scene: Beyond the Chains

Cornmarket is a hub for coffee lovers seeking quality brews that go beyond the usual high-street offerings. Reddit discussions frequently highlight spots like Trait and Canteen as go-to destinations for a truly satisfying coffee experience. Travelers often express disappointment with generic coffee elsewhere, making these independent cafes a welcome discovery. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Navigating the Crowds: Tips for a Smoother Visit

Cornmarket is a popular destination, and as such, it can get quite crowded, particularly on weekends and during peak lunch hours. To avoid the hustle and bustle, planning your visit for weekday mornings or early afternoons is highly recommended. This strategy not only helps you avoid the longest queues but also allows for a more relaxed browsing and dining experience. Reddit

When cafes are busy, service speed can sometimes be an issue, with reports of waiting for coffee or food even after being seated. Reddit 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. Reddit

Brunch Delights and Dining Decisions

For those seeking a satisfying brunch, Cornmarket offers several appealing options. Jamaica Blue is frequently mentioned for its creative menu, including a popular Veggie Brunch. This dish is noted for its delicious variety of tastes, featuring elements like avocado spread, sun-dried tomato hummus, and plant-based sausage. Reddit

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. Reddit 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. Reddit

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