Ginge's Bar & Grill in North Down

What can I say about this place? It’s hard to find a reason to visit the big city of Bangor and in-fact I used to find reasons not to visit but this Bar has changed all that and I now welcome the pilgrimage up to Costa Del Bangor like many Belfast inhabitants enjoyed before me in the heady summer days of the 60’s. Ginge’s is the perfect infusion of Aladdins Cave and Willy Wonkas chocolate factory and will have you going down a rabbit hole Alice herself would have marvelled at. A place where amazement and wonder are around every corner due to the atmosphere casually swinging from one of being on a special ops mission behind enemy lines with a crack team of Bangor veterans trying to compete a poker hand to one of casually chilling in front of an open fire with live music resembling days gone by whilst having craic and prime ministers questions with clientele you simply wouldn’t come across in your normal everyday life. From Olympians, musicians, tech savvy professionals and Dothraki bloodriders, Ginges has it all under one roof. Add to this an owner bringing in guest chefs to cook up bbq fare fitting of its surroundings and you found a niche in the hospitality sector. Ham hocks, lamb legs, sides of beef and multiple corn snacks are laid down in a feast fitting of a banqueting table of the tudors themselves. A unique experience indeed and one not to be passed up

If carlsberg did bars this would be top of the list. This is the best bar in Bangor. The proprietor is an absolute legend…More yarns than a woollen pullover. You must visit this place. Also the bee is the cheapest in Bangor.

Ginge’s is the cosmopolitan heart of Bangor City, always abuzz with lively philosophical debates, insightful political discussions and the occasional ribald joke. The location is ideal and it has the sort of atmosphere one associates mainly with the traditional Irish pubs of the Arran Islands and the traditional sheds of North Down. It’s cozy and welcoming while also being exclusive and hard to reach. The landlord will happily serve you up whatever happens to be on the grill; chicken, burgers, sausages, it’s the luck of the draw! And you can take a seat to enjoy your dinner in the luxurious beer garden, replete with trampoline for the kids. Note: Beware the dog.

Friendly service and a lively atmosphere. I love little hole-in-wall pubs. It reminded me of a tucked-away speakeasy I adore in Köln, but with an Irish style. So cozy! Plus it’s dog-friendly!

Incredible BBQ on offer. Very reasonably priced. The opening hours are perfect, closes at midnight on the dot. The grounds are immaculately kept. The regulars are a mixed bunch of different personality disorders which means you’re guaranteed an original experience every time you visit.

A palace of wonder and harmony, a place to feast on a wide variety of the finest international cuisine, cooked by a host and chef renowned for his attention to detail and customer satisfaction. Also an opportunity to learn from the company who exhibit a wealth of intellectual and stimulating conversation. As a new addition the host has also expanded the outdoor seating area to include new plants and greenery and a paved seating area decorated with antiques ranging from classic bar paraphernalia to archeological train finds from the old Mourne Railway line.” Bloody magnificent spot.

This ‘speak-easy’ is hands down the best place I’ve ever gone to. Would recommend it to anyone that is lucky enough to get an invite. The host (“Ginge”) is humble and generous in equal measure… making sure everyone has a night to remember. The food is epic. Whilst predominantly prepared and cooked by Ginge himself (a bit of a wizard on the Green Egg), he sometimes gets some esteemed guest chefs involved too. Decor is like going back in time. Pubs like they should be, intimate, friendly and all about the chat. By far, the best place in Bangor.

This little bar is tucked away off the main road, and truly is one of bangors best kept secrets. I would have given it 5 stars if not for the Publican. He can be very hit and miss in this establishment. Sometimes he’s very pleasant and a great host, and at other times he can be very rude and abrupt. Strange looking fella also. He definitely needs to keep this establishment open for a bit longer as you are kicked out at 23:59 on the dot every time. I think an extra hour would make the customers and regulars really enjoy this amazing place a bit more. The music can also be very samey. Lots of teen pop and extremely depressing ballads can sometimes dampen the night. A little mixed playlist from the regulars would go down a treat. Can’t wait to be back here again soon though!

Great spot for great craic with good company, good food and good times. Music is minimal techno, hip hop, blues rock and pop. No gleaken!

I had the best craic at Ginge's bar! The atmosphere is absolutely enchanting – the setup of lights, cozy seating, and lush greenery create a perfect ambience. The attention to detail in the bar's countertop is impressive, making it feel like a hidden gem. What truly stole the show for me was the cards night they hosted. It's hands down the best night out there! The combination of friendly competition, laughter, and the lovely outdoor setting made it an unforgettable experience. The bar's selection of drinks is top-notch too, catering to all tastes. I can't recommend this place enough. It's an oasis of relaxation and fun, and their cards night is the cherry on top. Don't miss out on a chance to unwind and enjoy this hidden paradise.

Sometimes you wanna go where everyone knows your name and the people are glad you came…… This absolutely sums up this wee cracker of a bar. A hidden gem nestled away in this beautiful city. The owner/landlord is an absolute gent who strives for perfection and to entertain his guests. He’s a culinary genius with some exciting masterpieces that frequent the specials board, usually smoked on a Big Green Egg. As for the atmosphere it’s always buzzing with an eclectic vibe that reminds me of a traditional quaint Irish boozer that comes alive when the tunes get in full flow. As has been stated the poker evenings are what sets this off in a league of its own. Always a joyful occasion with laughter and almighty craic long into the evening. Bangors very own powerhouse and strong man Glenn Ross used to frequent this fine establishment but he must be back in training as he’s been a notable absentee for sone time now. Lastly please be careful as recently this area has been an accident hotspot so please take care when ensuring and leaving The fabulous Ginges Bar and Grill