Bert's Bar at The Merchant Hotel Belfast in Belfast

We went to the Merchant Hotel for a pre dinner birthday drink as a treat around 4.30pm our dinner was booked for 5.15pm. Our table had the reminants of the previous party, empty glasses and half eaten nibbles. A waiter came and took our order but didn't bother to clear or clean the table. He then took an order for a couple beside us. The couple beside us were swiftly served a pot of tea with nibbles and glasses of water. At 5.05pm I went to the bar area and advised we haven't received our order and we were ready to leave. The drinks arrived at 5.10pm delivered to the drink stained table which we literally had to drink in one go as we were going to be late for our meal and over £30 worse off! Lots of suited staff walking back and forwards looking important but not really doing very much. Maybe when you see customers looking around for assistance you might want to try and help. Service appalling for a Saturday afternoon, dread to think what the evening service is like! Disappointing start to a birthday celebration.

We visit here every 6 weeks or so and sadly we’ve watched it deteriorate over the past year. The drinks prices are obscene and the service which they help themselves to automatically is 10% on top of the ridiculous prices. I have no objections to tipping and I always do tip everywhere I go when the service is up to scratch. However we had to ask for menus, ask for our order to be taken, request ice for the warm complimentary water. Never were we asked was everything ok. The steak ciabatta thing must have been walked past the actual steak as the portion of meat in it was minuscule. It was bulked out by mushrooms. Ratio probably 10:1. We left behind a few bob short of £100 and felt very unhappy and feeling we had not had an experience to match the prices charged. There are much better places to eat and drink in Belfast and have a similar atmosphere without the exorbitant costs here. Unhappy customers

I would not recommend the Merchant Hotel, my Husband and I went in to have a cocktail, there were free tables so we chose one and just as we sat down in the Banking Hall we were approached by a staff member to inform us that we had to queue for a table, I apologised and asked where do we queue, he pointed quite dismissively and said just over there " I couldn't see any queue, my husband then asked can we just go into the bar he sharply replied nothing free in there either you need to queue for 20 -25 mins I looked in the bar there were a few people sitting at the bar but no queue, so we decided to leave It was quite humiliating when there was no signage to say wait to be seated and there was free seating available. I have contacted the hotel on several occasions as yet no response or acknowledgement. Not the service you expect from a 5 * establishment or any establishment for that

My husband and I were out in Belfast for 'date day' and decided to go to the Merchant for cocktails. We visited Berts Jazz Bar first however no seats so we tried the main bar in the hotel. We walked up the main steps into the foyer. There was no seats available however we spied a sign for the cocktail bar saying 'please wait to be seated', so we waited and continued to wait whilst staff were walking past totally ignoring us. I mentioned to a female worker in suit we were waiting sometime, her attitude wasn't very pleasant and actually quite passive aggressive. A couple came to the other side of the bar and a staff member went to seat them first however released we were waiting some time, nevertheless, there was no available tables and we were advised to wait through the bar in a corridor...at this point we just decided to leave. I understand it was a Saturday afternoon but manners cost nothing hence this review.

I was in the merchant the other day for a couple of drinks and a munch and this handsome fella did sweet all but was good eye candy (like I mean he was a stunner ) and I think he need promotion with immediate effect.I didnt quite catch the young fella babe but service like that doesn’t happen often

We visited the merchant on Friday 1/3 afternoon we were seated in the small room off the bar. The service was dreadful had to ask waitress for nibbles which you normally get waited ages for our drinks a bramble and a latte the cocktail was in a small glass with far to much ice we noticed other tables were been given a welcome drink no boy offered us there’s a service charge on the bill but we got very poor service and felt ignored not the 5 * treatment we usually got when we have visited the merchant

Five of us called in yesterday while on a day out for Christmas. We were planning on having some cocktails. The receptionist directed us to a waiter in the bar. As there were two free tables we expected to be seated but the waiter told us to go to a waiting area beyond the bar. We were left there for around 20 mins! At which point we decided to go. On the way back through the bar we asked a waitress again for a table. She just shrugged her shoulders. The two tables that we noticed on the way in were still free. At that stage we walked out. Terrible service. And you are supposed to be 5*! Will never be back.

The service was terrible. A person came and brought bread sticks and olives but was never seen again. 25 minutes later a waiter came and took the order which came ok. After ordering, it was then another 20 minutes for the drinks to arrive. But after we wanted a second drink no one came. Went up to the bar and was told table service only and I said but no one is serving us. A waiter came and took an order from the table beside us and ignored us. Stopped her when she returned to them a second time as we just wanted to leave at this stage. Brought the bill and asked if we wanted change… well yes the service was horrible! Awful experience, woeful service!

this is a great place... we were here for cocktails on this occasion..... but the margarita i ordered, which came in a tumbler glass, had by far and away the largest ice cube i have ever seen. If filled 90% of the glass. I queried this with the waiter, who went from friendly and attentive, to psuedo legal and defensive... telling me it has x cc's of alcohol, so it was a "legal" cocktail. It may well have been but that doesnt make it appropriate. There is a stage where deception to maximise gross margin should be replaced with delighting a customer who will continue to come back

Sadly this venue has gone down hill- the cocktail menu has been reduced to a tatty cardboard booklet and when we ordered four cocktails we waited 45 minutes before we were scolded by a young barman for stating that the service was poor Most certainly will never return

After a brief wait, we were ushered to our table to be seated. The waitress then arrived and without even a word dumped 2 cocktail menus on the table. There was no greeting or comment. We had attended for food and not cocktails - we requested the menus and despite waiting 15 minutes, the menus still had not arrived. We therefore complained to the restaurant manager about no service and then suddenly the menus arrived. Eventually 45 minutes later after ordering our food, the food arrived which although was well cooked and tasty, portion sizes had much to be desired. We would recommend staying clear of the Cocktail bar at Merchant which is over priced, poor service and portion sizes that will leave you hungry.

Very disappointing visit. Beautiful building but visited with 9 friends for a cocktail. Service was extremely slow had to request twice for someone to take our order after approx 20 minutes. Cocktails were extortionate but we ordered for the experience. However when they finally arrived there was an iceberg of ice in the glass and very little drink! In fact one guest didn’t get her drink and we had to request it again. Approx £16 for a very poor cocktail. When we addressed our concern to the waitress she said that they often get the same complaints. But nothing changes! The wait then for the bill was ridiculous. We could have left if we were not honest!!

A fabulous environment to enjoy a relaxed cocktail and light meal. The staff our very attentive and professional. It’s nice to have a place like this in Belfast with a more reserved clientele

I think this might perhaps be a case of what you order as clearly other reviewers have had a far superior experience than some . We were celebrating a friends birthday . We booked the meal in person and were told if we wanted a cocktail in the bar area to arrive earlier than 8:30 . We duly did so but was informed the bar was full and we’re asked to wait in ‘ a holding area’ merely a small corridor with seats . After 5 minutes we were invited in to part with £40 for 2 of the smallest most uninspiring cocktails I’ve ever had . The El Morocco came in a cheap small glass and a piece of ice that would have sank the titanic ! No thankyou . The meal it self was ok not inspiring or special . The room dramatic but it was almost dark not enough subdued lighting even . Halibut on mash that the chef insisted we’re crushed potatoes . Some tomatoes and small pieces of lobster . £31 . Desert was awful . The picture might help you decide £11.50 . Service charge and tax was added to the bill and not optional . On one positive note the white Portuguese wine was nice . If that wasn’t bad enough we headed to the jazz bar and you guessed it no tables - was asked to sit at the bar . Waited 15 mins to be served . I specifically asked for 1 small Piece of ice . Again another great iceberg was placed in the glass . Gin and tonic £11.50 - it watered down the drink so much we had to have another gin put in it half way down . Needless to say I wasn’t impressed . The manager assured us twice as soon as a table became available he would come and seat us in the lounge . I’m glad he forgot about us and so we left after an hour !

A great place to enjoy a cocktail with beautiful decor and a wonderful ambience. The mixologists and staff were so attentive and informative, we really felt well looked after. So many delicious cocktails to recommend and we will be back.

We were staying at the Merchant hotel ,which is where this is situated, good service, very busy, good cocktails but very expensive.

Beautiful venue for drinks and a light meal. Vey quiet and cosy with the log fire burning. Staff were attentive & there is a vast menu of cocktails to choose from. Lovely as a special treat.

Wonderful visit to the Cocktail bar ; great service and advice from our server Lucy, who was so efficient, professional and courteous. A special day for us as it was our daughter's graduation day. Lucy certainly helped make it memorable.

Stopped in for a Cappucino. The dessert of the day was an elegant square strawberry yogurt creme with a strawberry chocolate ganache. Delicate and delicious to the end. Regret not getting a photo. Elegant decor and ever so proper and polite with the service. You’ll love this piece of yesteryear We’ll be back. :)

Went for cocktails after dinner, wait staff were lovely, great service and friendly. The bar staff were a little inexperienced and didn't know how to serve Hennessy brandy ha ha but we got there in the end. Some training needed and maybe a little more attention paid to cocktails. Will return... thanks

I visited the Merchant Hotel last weekend, I am a regular customer, I found the customer service in the Cocktail bar offhand and not customer friendly. I made a complaint at length and was informed I would be contacted by a manager, nearly a week later I’m still waiting. The Merchant sets the hotel up as being out on its own for customer service, I would probably have better service in my local cafe.

Arrived 1930 for a pre dinner cocktail. Table in another part of the hotel Bert’s Jazz bar booked for 20.30. Left at 20.25 still not been served two cocktails. Staff just said they were very busy and didn’t seem to be bothered. Didn’t offer to bring our drinks to the restaurant, didn’t offer to speak to Bert’s to see if we could move our reservation later. Reported our disappointment to the hotel receptionist he did not seem bothered either. All very disappointing. Luckily Bert’s was amazing and our night was not spoilt by the terrible experience in the hotel cocktail bar

Had a brilliant time at the Merchant. We only came for a drink but were persuaded to stay for an excellent time by Giulia, who mixed our drinks and provided brilliant service. The drinks were a bit on the pricey side, but you are paying for quality and it is delivered. Giulia was excellent and I hope she is appreciated here! Fantastic service and excellent drinks!

Absolutely fantastic service from the Merchant staff especially Paulina and Sophia. Could not have done any more for us! Can highly recommend this hotel for any function as the staff are exceptional !

We had lunch in the bar at The Merchant last week. As fans of The Fall we were keen to visit the hotel. It is beautiful and worth a visit alone. We managed to get a table in the bar with no difficulty - we...

If you can’t afford to stay at The Merchant, make sure you visit the cocktail bar. It’s still pretty pricey but worth a visit. They have a huge selection of drinks and an impressive cocktail list. Everything we had was great. The hotel has amazing...

After having a beautiful meal in Bert’s we came up to the Cocktail bar. The level of service and professionalism from the staff was exceptional. We enjoyed a selection of exquisite cocktails, my favourite being the Bramble. We were attended to by the lovely Lubo,...

We arrived at the cocktail bar and luckily got the last table for two. The building was beautiful,the furnishings were rich and the atmosphere was beautiful and relaxing. Erin served us and she was attentive and a really lovely lady. She told us a couple...

I first have to begin by saying I am not a huge fan of cocktails having had bad experiences in other bars in the past with poor pre made ones or staff that weren't skilled enough. However the cocktail bar in the Merchant were none...

We booked a table for The jazz/cocktail bar inside The Merchant Hotel, 9pm last Friday evening for a cocktail or two. We arrived shortly after 9pm but were greeted by a very rude young blonde Lady who unfortunately made us feel very unwelcome. I understand...

The cocktails here are absolutely divine! I had the paloma and it was the best I've ever had. My husband had the old fashioned and he wouldn't even share a sip if that tells you anything! We also shared the charcuterie board and it was...

We were helpfully directed in here, after trying out luck to get seated in our usual haunt, The Great Room. Wasn’t at all disappointed by the menu; the scallops were perfectly cooked - unusual no matter where you eat - the magnificent burger & perfect...

Beautiful comfortable surroundings and very pleasant staff it is very expensive considering there is a 10% service charge for every time you order a drink ....customers should have the choice of making their own decision!

Our visit was wonderful, from the moment we arrived, everything was extra special. The staff were extremely friendly and nothing was too much trouble, a special mention for Aaron who was a true professional. The best place in Belfast for cocktails.

My husband and I took advantage of the hospitality deal and went to Berts Bar for a three course meal. It was just fantastic. Mussels and Pate for starters, cod for mains followed by Tarte tatin and panna cotta. Absolutely delicious. The customer service was...

Best cocktails by Aaron, who really knew his stuff. Only criticism would be there were complimentary no bar snacks. Ry interesting to hear how they make their own cordials etc.

I was visiting Belfast with work and colleagues wanted to meet in the cocktail bar for drinks - there was a bit of a faff trying to get a table but once we where all seated the drinks where fantastic

Really beautiful bar, nice atmosphere and good service. This is a great place for a special occasion and feels very relaxed. The cocktails are amazing, with quality original flavours and classics.

Visited here on New Years Eve. They had no queuing system at all and as a result we were left standing waiting for a table for over 40mins despite being told we were first in line! When I approached the Duty Manager and cocktail supervisor...

We came to the bar on a busy Saturday night. There were 2 of is and it was hard to find a seat. The staff were incredible. They seated us initially in a small side room but we requested to move to the main room and they were very accommodating. The selection of cocktails were excellent and the food was great..service was quick despite how busy the bar was. Thanks so much for making us feel so welcome, we will definitely be back.

Fui al comerciante ayer por una copa de vino de cumpleaños. Decidimos conseguir algo de comida de bar, junto con un sándwich, agradable pero caro, pedimos una porción de chips navales. Llegaron las papas fritas y el chef se encargó de agregarles sal después de cocinarlas. . . . . . ¡ahora me gusta la sal pero estaban cubiertos de arriba a abajo! ! ! . Le dijimos al camarero que dijo que lo pasaría. Por favor, deje que los clientes salen su propia comida o es una estratagema para alentar a comprar más bebidas? ? ?

Four of us called in late afternoon and had two rounds of lovely cocktails - Espresso Martinis, Bramble and Alcohol-free Mojito. Superb service as you would expect, and great nibbles too!!

A small business group met there for lunch. Excellent ambiance, great friendly service, good selection on menu and great food. 4 different meals and all declared excellent. A really superb experience and not too expensive.

Prepárese para disfrutar de sabores fabulosos pero prepare su billetera. Dicho esto, no va a ir al comerciante para obtener una ganga: esta es una experiencia elegante y verdadera.Siéntese, tómese la media hora para leer el menú de cócteles y ¡disfrute!

Everyone was happy in this gorgeous setting. We had great service, nice bar snacks, and awesome drinks from their extensive cocktail menu. Although they’d make anything you want I’m sure. Very classy place - if ever back in Belfast will go here again for sure!

The Merchant’s cocktail bar is well known to cocktail enthusiasts and for good reason. The classic and original cocktails are beautifully described in their menu and crafted with excellence. The bar staff are welcoming and enthusiastic about their craft, so people without cocktail knowledge would be well-taken care of here. The staff can guide you in choosing the perfect cocktail for you. We sat at the bar to get a better view of the staff as they crafted drinks, so we had extra time to talk with Aaron, who was tending bar when we visited. A true gentlemen! He clearly enjoys meeting guests and serving them. After traveling in the south of Ireland for several days, we were delighted by the cocktail scene in Belfast, which is much more developed than in Dublin or cities down south. If you get tired of Guinness or straight whiskey in Ireland, get to Belfast! And don’t miss the Merchant!

This is a fab bar, great Jazz in the evenings and amazing cocktails! We were there on a sunday evening and there was a lovely atmosphere. The staff were really attentive and I loved the plush interiors. Well worth a visit.

We found the bar to be very comfortable and cozy even though it was busy when we were there. Just incredible service and one of the best Irish Coffees I have ever had.

Having been here once before, we decided to treat ourselves to a couple of drinks in the cocktail bar recently.It is expensive compared to other Belfast bars but the decor and service are so much better than elsewhere. The cocktail menu is long but it didn’t include the two cocktails that we wished to order - a frozen daiquiri and a pornstar martini. This is why I’ve only given it 4 stars.We ordered other cocktails instead. Complimentary nibbles accompanied the drinks, and we were advised when last orders were approaching, which was a nice touch.Our bill was brought at the very end, which was nice, rather than after each order.This bar is well worth a visit - for a special treat!

Lovely place to sit and spend an hour or two. A very large choice of cocktails and lovely nibbles to accompany them. Pricy but worth it.

Service amazing quality of food dismal - Definat.y will not be back - also charged service charge which when challenged was dismissed / really disapointing visit

Upmarket hotel in central location. Perfect for after dinner drinks. Opulent surroundings, excellent service. Prices, as you may expect, on the high side.

Inicialmente intenté conseguir una mesa en el bar de Bert, pero estaba completamente reservado para una función privada. Nos dirigieron al bar de cócteles The Merchant donde se servían las comidas. Nos sentamos rápidamente y nos dieron menús. Agua y algunos bocadillos muy agradables fueron traídos a la mesa. Tuve el bistec ciabatta y el bistec se derretía en la boca aunque un poco en el lado fresco para mí, pero me gusta mi comida muy caliente. Mi marido tenía el pastel de pescado y dijo que estaba delicioso. Acompañados por una buena botella de vino y un servicio impecable y amable de los camareros, disfrutamos mucho de nuestra visita.

Have visited on a few occasions for drinks. Very opulent surroundings with a fire always roaring. Extensive cocktail list which is no more expensive than other nearby venues. Very relaxed atmosphere so definitely not somewhere to go for a party but lovely for a chat & cocktail. Provides nibbles with drinks. Friendly & accommodating staff. Lovely spot for a special occasion.

This place is quite something - the decor of the bar and restaurant area is just spectacular and feels like stepping back into time. I would have never associated this type of place with Belfast or Ireland. It is really beautiful - together with a great atmosphere, cool music and excellent service this is a must see in Belfast.

Yo y mi esposo llamamos al hotel temprano el sábado por la noche. La señora de la recepción fue muy educada y nos dirigió al bar de cócteles para tomar una copa. Estuvimos sentados por un momento, dados los menús y luego ignorados durante los siguientes 10/15 minutos. Un grupo de 6 a 8 personas se sentó en la mesa junto a nosotros y nos dieron menús seguidos de agua y bocadillos de mesa inmediatamente. Los camareros incluso regresaron y ofrecieron consejos sobre el menú para el grupo mientras nosotros todavía estábamos ignorados. Tratamos de llamar la atención de los camareros, pero no sirvió de nada, así que decidimos reducir nuestras pérdidas y nos fuimos.Tal vez una mala experiencia o los camareros se distrajeron con el grupo grande (¿= consejos más grandes?) Pero una experiencia de decepción dada la reputación del hotel.

Llamamos aquí solo por una bebida, después de unos 5 minutos, apareció un camarero para tomar nuestro pedido. Le pedí el menú de vinos y licores, reapareció con él después de otros 5 minutos. Luego tuvimos que esperar unos 10 minutos para que alguien regresara y tomara nuestro pedido.Otros 10 minutos pasaron, todavía no hay bebida. Tuvimos que preguntar a otro camarero antes de que un tercero trajera nuestra orden. Lugar encantador pero mimado por el mal servicio

The decor is gorgeous, drinks were amazing with so many to choose from and staff were very helpful and friendly.

Estábamos tomando cócteles antes de la cena y el espacio estaba lleno. Conseguimos conseguir 2 escaños uniéndonos a otra pareja. Los cócteles eran buenos y ambos disfrutamos nuestras opciones. El agua se sirve poco después de la llegada, seguida de deliciosos bocadillos que se colocan ante usted sin solicitud pero se le advierte que se cobra una tarifa. (¡Son encantadores!) Después de nuestra comida volvimos a tomar otro cóctel para encontrar el bar mucho menos lleno y más cómodo. ¡Hay un fuego abierto encantador en un extremo de la barra! Muy alegre en una noche triste! !

This lounge was very charming and high end! We loved it. Unique and taste cocktail options! I settle for plain old Pink Champagne! YUM! Just be prepared! 4 drinks were over $120!

Recently visited for a quiet drink before dinner with a friend and found our time spent somewhat underwhelming. Upon arriving, we sat at the bar and were given two menus, water and left to it. Dribs and drabs of a handful of guests entered the main bar after us and were greeted by staff who further attended to them. We watched many be offered drinks, discuss dinner etc whilst still nobody had yet spoke to us- surprising as the bar was relatively quiet. We ordered two straights with tonic and when finally requested the bill, I was surprised to find it was roughly £22. I didn’t feel like the service and drinks selection was worth such a hefty price, especially when the surrounding bars could provide a lot more personality and fun for a fraction of the cost.

A stunning building so well worth a look around. Interesting history and lots of interesting nooks and crannies. Have a cocktail - a huge selection, but staff a very knowledgeable. Jamal provided us with great service & made a fuss of our friend who was celebrating her birthday the ideal place for a celebration or special occasion

We ordered 2 x Classic Champagne Cocktails which arrived in hi-ball glasses stuffed with ice cubes, angostura flavoured liquid (not a single bubble) and adorned with multiple lemon rinds, raspberry and blackberry. Not remotely like a Classic Champagne cocktail... a big disappointment on the drinks front but redeemed by lovely setting and excellent company. Bring back a proper cocktail bar.

We just popped in for some tea and cocktails. The service was so attentive, really excellent. The interior of this building is just stunning. Would loved to have returned again if only our visit to Belfast was a little longer! Highly recommended!

Sitting here presently, we had been moved on from the cocktail bar at the main merchant hotel which was entirely fine. Other customers were also redirected to bertz, the staff at bertz were not prepared to accommodate such numbers and it became it obvious very quickly that the staff were less than happy with the situation that had been thrust upon them, as they were dealing with larger numbers. After waiting 20 minutes to request our next order, we made our order, we were then given our order and requested our bill we were then refused our drinks and he would not allow us to purchase our second round, as he said that "we had somewhere else to be". After complaining to pay we were then handed our drinks. We have paid our bill and have went elsewhere due to the poor service and poor attitudes of the staff.

The menu is uninspiring and hasn't changed much, if at all in the last few years. Service is very uncoordinated and slow. Our pre-dinner cocktails arrived just before our starters. The wine we had chosen to go with our starters had be asked for and some at the table has almost finished eating by the time it arrived. The red wine ordered to accompany our main course, we also had to remind them to bring. Seafood was nice and good steaks. They are fond of serving food on little planks of wood, although they kindly served our meals on plates as requested.At over £100 per person, I expect much better service and not to hear the barman joke with his colleagues by guessing what 'walk-ins' are going to order to drink. To me, it sounded slightly arrogant. I luckily was congratulated on my choice of cocktail. Glad he approved. The live music is good but far to loud, struggled to have a conversation throughout the dinner. Also £10 per head was added to our bill for the music plus an automatic 10% service charge. That was £80 in total for service that to be honest wasn't that professional, and live music the rest of the bar enjoy for free. Throughout the meal we were served by 4 waiters, each of them confused and no idea what the other ones were doing. In fairness it is my fault and I should have asked them to remove the service charge, it wasn't worth it. Obviously not for me, and won't rush back.

I went to Berts Jazz Bar for brunch a couple of weeks ago. What a great experience it was! The brunch deal itself is amazing – a meal, a bucks fizz/bloody mary and a tea/coffee all for £15.00. The menu is extensive, with something for everyone including a sweet option of pancakes or more savoury options including minute steak. I opted for Eggs Royale and was not disappointed. The portion was substantial as well with 3 poached eggs. All of my friends enjoyed their meal and all plates were clean at the end. The atmosphere in the restaurant is lovely and a pianist was on while we ate our brunch. The staff are friendly and extremely attentive. After brunch we decided to stay on for a few cocktails. The cocktail menu was impressive with almost too much choice. I opted for a Bramble and French Martini. Both were divine and probably the nicest I have had in Belfast. I have been spreading the word since my visit and cannot wait to go back!

Called here before going to Odyssey for Kevin Bridges tonight. Super food and chef pulled a special favour at my request. Big shout to the "chief Buck cat" Mark. Looked after us like we were going on stage. Couldn't ask for better.

It was my first time in Berts and it certainly won't be my last! The food was fantastic and the service was first class, I would highly recommend Berts.

The food was excellent, the service (especially from the waiter named Adam) was far greater than we had expected, and the atmosphere of this place is the best you will find in Northern Ireland.

We went here with a large group and enjoyed the dinner and jazz singer for the evening.It seemed like the servers struggled a bit with the size of the group. However our servers were definitely knowledgeable and decisive and it made for a very smooth evening.We had a short menu selection, but it was ideal. The mussels came in the cutest little cauldrons and were done excellently. Our mains were decorated nicely and cooked to taste. Baked Alaska for dessert was a must. Overall, recommended.The entertainment was billed as a Jazz club, however it was just a pianist with a singer. The set was nice. Not too loud. The performer was very professional and personable. I wouldn't say that what we experienced was the full deal, but as a dinner accompaniment it was enjoyable.

We looked at some other resturants in the area but were pleased we chose Bert's Bar. The food, service and jazz were top class. We settled for the £60 - 3 course set menu for 2, which included a bottle of wine. Excellent choice and value. We went on a Wednesday evening at 8.45 pm and left at 11.45 pm approx. The jazz was still in full swing! As it was mid week we did not have to reserve a table, however booking would be advisable from Thursday and over the weekend. Looking forward to our return visit when next in Belfast. We can highly recommend this venue.

Omg if you want a headache go here!!!! Lovely food but the band would put you right off. Do they not know your in a resturant. You are eating and want a conversation not at a disco where you do sign language. Will definitely not be back. Such a racket. Did ask the waiters could they get it turned down but to no avail. So defo NOT be back

We just love this place on a Sunday ( haven't been any other time) Probably our favourite for a Sunday brunch or lunch and we return again and again. Brunch is superb with a bloody mary or Buck's Fizz thrown in. The food is of a great standard. The staff, ambience, food and service are excellent. On our most recent visit last Sunday, Adam looked after us and he was extremely pleasant and attentive. On all of our visits we have found the staff to be of a high standard. Already looking forward to going again soon.

Took my mother as a treat, service was fantastic. Menu had plenty of variety and great mid week offers. We had 3 courses & each course was stunning particularly the mussels for starter & salmon for mains. Entertainment started around 9pm was a little too loud but was also great and vocalist was very assertive to customers birthdays etc. Would definitely recommend to anyone and def be back. 5 stars!!!

Popped in for a quick drink and ended up staying all night. The decor and atmosphere is fantastic, lovely cocktails and brilliant service. Couldn't ask for more.

Sumptuous decor, attentive service, first-class cocktails and tasty (and well-priced) food: these alone make for a great night out. What sets Berts apart is the live jazz. The band was sensational (Saturday night - 24th October) and did a fantastic job performing ad-hoc requests. Their rendition of 'Nobody Does it Better' was a show-stopper. Best night out possibly ever!

This is a lovely restaurant the good is excellent and theorbis a lovely vibe to it we went for my mum's 50th birthday dinner :)

Great quality cocktails in a sophisticated atmosphere and a brilliant live jazz band every evening. Staff were knowledgable and friendly and the drinks were made to perfection!

Food was top class, servers were polite and very helpful, surroundings were luxurious and the jazz show was great!! We will definitely be back for 'date-night'!!

Bert's has live Jazz each night and diners get the best seats. I wasn't expecting just as good a meal but the fish special, smoked cod with linguini was absolutely excellent. Great feel of a 30s? cocktail bar and great Jazz and blues guitar from Ronnie Greer. Drinks are a bit pricey but the music is free so no complaints.

The short and sweet version: Go. Right now. Go. Impeccable food, flawless cocktails, tasteful atmospheric decor, attentive, knowledgeable and engaging staff - even the loos are swanky. You need to eat here. Or just drink, they're good at those too.The long of it: I've been to Bert's several times, but not for food until tonight. Typing this up as quick as I can before the food coma gets me - be warned, you WILL do your best to clear every plate and it gets tricky towards the end of that third course.To start, Bert's is decorated beautifully. It's the first thing you notice. The theme (glamorous jazz era!) never veers into the cheap and tacky, and every opulent detail is on key. Live jazz every night, incredible musicians, coupled with low lighting and plush upholstery makes for an intimate, relaxed space. Now that we're comfortable, I have to mention the incredible service: you can't train people to be this charming! Professionals to the highest standard, they are incredibly helpful - which is great for people like me who need half the words on the fancy menu explained, and have no idea what cocktails they like! You might not know either, but the staff here do. Having ordered drinks and starters, I was (pleasantly) surprised by the quick turnaround and the presentation, of both drinks and food. Care and attention to detail in making everything look "just so" had very obviously been applied, without being fussy or making me feel bad for ruining it. Between us, we had the crab salad, soup of the day (vegetable), and my partner and I shared a charcuterie board. Everyone nibbled a bit of everything, and we were all enchanted. Afterwards, the men split a giant chateaubriand, and us girls had a medium ribeye steak and chicken supreme respectively. Again, artfully arranged without being pretentious, and with presentation never overstepping flavour or portion size. Real food, heaps of it, set down pretty. What more could you want? All meats were cooked perfectly to specification, and the various sauces, sides and accompaniments were plentiful and matched well with the beef/chicken. At some point during this 8pm rolled round and the band started - I don't have a musical ear, but these people are clearly good at what they do. The only issue I'd take is with the volume. Sounds great, but I hate raising my voice and having to lean towards people to be heard! On the subject of complaints, and this is really scraping the bottom of the barrel here, the top of the kitchen door had dust on it, and the decor in the bathroom is a bit dark. Mood lighting's great in rooms that aren't shiny black from top to toe, but in the very posh loos it can take a second to see where you're going. Dessert was ordered because we're all gastronomic masochists (there was NO room left but no one cared, the dessert list looked great), and the most delightful, whimsical fondue I have ever seen was carted out, along with a creme brulee, coffee and tea. The tea took a good while to brew to my preferred strength but was great then, coffee smelled fab, creme brulee was apparently great - but the layout of the fondue with the gorgeous little copper pots above tealights really tickled me. Strawberries, profiteroles, banana bread.. at this point, asking me to pick up and dip my own food was borderline cruel but I needed the cardio. It was fun, it was delicious, but if I ate that as often as I'd like to I'd be penniless and fat. That sums up the whole evening, really! Just fabulous, but not something my waist or wallet can afford to do too frequently. Will be back!

We asked the doorman at another bar where we might find some jazz music and were directed here.. What a brilliant recommendation ! This is obviously quite an up-market establishment but we felt completely at ease thanks to the very friendly and welcoming barmen on duty.. Service was absolutely exceptional, we were well looked after by attentive staff who noticed our glasses emptying and offered to bring another drink before we could get up and go to the bar ourselves.. Enjoyed a real treat.. a perfectly poured Brandy Alexander and my companion was delighted with his malt whiskey.. the music was superb, a mixture of jazz classics and interpretations of more modern music.. who'd have thought Gun's and Roses Sweet Child O' Mine could sound so good as a jazz piece ! The best night out of our entire time in Northern Ireland and will definitely be back on our next trip

We went to Bert's with our friends who live here and we were not disappointed! In fact we really liked this place a lot. When you walk in, the dark wood/dark red velvet, dimmed lighting transports you to another time, right out of a 1920's jazz club. The drinks were very good and comparatively priced to what we pay back in the States. The service was very attentive, we didn't have to ask for anything, they treated us royally. The food was very good, we had the charcuterie platter and a couple of other apps to start, all excellent. We mostly had steak and chix for dinner, all very good. The music started & the female singer had the most beautiful voice. The band was very tight and provided excellent counterpoint to her voice. It all flowed very smoothly as it should. They also took requests from the audience which really personalized it. I would highly recommend this place to anyone interested in a classy, romantic night out. Worth the money. I saw some complaints from other reviewers about the 10% service charge, but in America, we tip 20%. So it cost me less than at home. All other prices were comparable to what we pay back home. Go out, have a good time at Bert's, you won't be disappointed!

Die Bar gehört zum Merchant Hotel. Abends kann man auch etwas essen und ab acht oder neun Uhr gibt es Jazz-Konzerte. An der Bar hervorragende Drinks und perfekte Bedienung.

The cocktails are always perfection and the staff extremely professional and accommodating. Its perfect for a romantic evening or a treat with friends... great when the livelier Jazz/ Cuban bands play!

Went here with two colleagues for a business dinner...wow!Starter was a new dish of dressed crab, with beetroot puree, and apple. It was beautiful...light, fresh and really tasty.For main, we all had fish of the day...hake in pesto linguini, with avocado and prawns. The hake was absolutely delicious...I couldn't fault the evening...our waiter was (a tad too) attentive, but very pleasant and took great care of us. And the ambience is great...very relaxing and subdued. Really enjoyed it!

Food service and entertainment excellent during our stay.Would highly recommend and go for later sitting if possible so you can enjoy the music all evening

We were having a lovely time here. The cocktails are beautiful. The decor and music second to none. However, the stuffy attitude of the staff really ruined our experience. Of course there is a certain standard to be regarded, but there was no rapport whatsoever with our waiter. This really affected our visit and would deter is from going here again.

The staff were fantastic and dos everything to help us. The food was soooo good and the atmosphere was amazing.These are the only down sides to berts drinks are so expensive as a half a pint is 2 pounds and a cocktails range froM 8-10 pounds a drink so I guess it's a place to go when special. The food prices in contrast was cheapest and reasonable. We could only get a table after 830 and had to pay 20 pounds just to reserve as the band were playing in someway I felt this was cheeky and in some ways could understand. The band were good but we had to leave early due to an early flight so you do get the table all night. I think I'd rather pay as I go just because we were limited on time but overall a very good experience

This was our first visit here. The food and service was A1. The wine was a bit expensive and could increase your bill a lot.There is a 10% service charge .We just missed the jazz band but were told they play each evening. On weekends there is a £10 surcharge per person after 8:30 pm so add this to your bill.I will return for the evening menu at a later date

Bert's Bar had live jazz music and excellent food and service. The 'special offer' menu of £60 for 3 courses and a bottle of wine was good value with reasonable choices. The waiters were attentive, although a touch too many "that's a very good choice madam and my favourite dish" to make it credible. Having said that the waiters were great and the food was excellent. The eggs and soldiers a highlight plus the baked Alaska.

We found this place by happy chance We were met at the door by a friendly waiter who made us feel welcome and relaxed.The food was delicious .The surroundings were comfortable and spotless.I will be recommending this place to everyone I know when they visit Belfast.We had Beetroot soup with goat's cheese and crab on toast for starter followed by Pork pie and roast hake. Both meals were beautifully cooked and presented.I have to say the staff were wonderful,They were professional and helpful without being pushy, a combination which is a rare delight.We were looked after by a young man called Robert and he is a great advertisement for Belfast hospitality.

Lounge lizard jazz standards with off-key scat vocals and poorly mixed sound. Over-priced and under-staffed.

a great atmosphere, and great staff, we went on a Jazz nite and the music blew me away. although my steak was not great they swiftly and comfortably sorted it out no fuss.

I visited Bert's for the first time with my sister for some afternoon cocktails before our flight home. It was delightful!The surroundings are plush, decadent and relaxing; there are also outside tables for smokers or if the weather's nice! :)We were greeted by staff before we had even stepped through the door, and told we could take a seat and someone would be over to take our order. All the staff we spoke to were extremely well trained and professional, but also very friendly, and very quick to notice if we were in need of more drinks! No need to get up to the bar and order yourself! :)The cocktails we ordered were simply delicious! They are so expertly made, and worth every penny! I had a corpse reviver, extremely boozy but so yummy you'd never know it!We also received free glasses of champagne from an 'admirer' at the bar as we looked like we were having a wonderful time, which is always a bonus!!!The ambience, service and drinks at Bert's are second to none, but I wouldn't expect anything less from The Merchant. They make some of the best cocktails I've ever tasted! I can't wait for my next visit in a few months time.

This place makes me feel as if I've stepped back in time to the 20's. It is cosy, classy and has fantastic live music. Enjoyed an excellent whisky sour and would love to come back for dinner.

The service is exquisite and the drinks perfectly-made. The wee waiters are absolutely gorgeous and could teach most other places a thing or two about how to behave with guests.And a man sent my sis and I a glass of champers each because we looked like we were enjoying it so. Who wouldn't?!

Frequently head to Bert's for special occasions and anniversaries as the cocktails, ambience and service is always great (Adam in particular is an absolute gent). You can't help but feel transported to another era, with the Jazz and soft lighting, it's the perfect romantic spot. The White Lady and Expresso Martinis must be tried!!!

We visit Bert's often- the jazz, cocktails, service & food are fantastic. Always a great atmosphere- definitely one of the best venues in Belfast.