Pop up restaurants have been coming and going with dizzying speed recently but this one is different, having been a favourite in Belfast since 2011.
It did move house once, from its original location in the old Aldens in the City premises, but owner-manager Stevie Haller (former front of house at the Mourne Seafood Bar) seems to have decided that Wellington Place is a good place to call Home.
It's furnished, as was the earlier incarnation in Callendar Street, with ‘previously loved’ furniture, slightly quirky in keeping with the 'pop-up' ethos but very comfortable. There is also an airy outside area beside the street, where a more casual menu is offered, featuring inter alia salads displayed in an open counter.
Then, behind that and divided off is an area with more muted lighting - quite big and with tables set bistro style. Paintings by local artists are on the walls - some of them for sale, along with other items including some of the upcycled furniture
But this is not a place of style over substance - co-founder Andy Rea of Mourne Seafood Bar had a hand in developing the menus and Ben Arnold’s cooking is really brilliant. Polenta fries to die for, great salads, a good smattering of excellent seafood and interesting 'cocktail' desserts typify the food.
The very pleasant servers at this well-managed operation are mostly male, in grey tee shirts, and knowledgeable.
Highly recommended.
