The Lonely Poet in Castlereagh

The food was poor and the choice of mains was limited, with only one vegetarian option being the mandatory vegetarian’s nemesis ‘Risotto’ not so much a cliche, more of a lazy joke. I was charged £5.00 for a CAN of Guinness 00 ! There are pubs in the area serving Guinness 00 on draft for £5.00 so the Poet is simply overcharging in my opinion and the opinion of EVERYONE I’ve spoken to since. For my main I had their scampi, which was OK, but ‘Chunky Chips’ should not be served in those little miniature deep fat fryer baskets. Everyone on our table laughed at this, especially when I counted out the Six chips I received. My wife had the chicken pieces, which claims to be served with salad but I could have scooped more salad from a salad bowl using a safety pin whilst blindfolded. It was simply beyond a joke. So overpriced alcohol free CANS of Guinness and poor food. Surroundings…. The Poet inside is still quite attractive. It was quite well designed as The Lonely Poet back in the day and the design has stood the test of time. So I will say that inside, it is still an attractive bar and it’s way better than it looks from outside, as it’s stuck on the edge of King’s Square beside a disused Bank and a Co-op. We all know that you judge a bar by the cleanliness of its toilets and I can say that the toilets in the Poet are amongst the filthiest, most disgusting toilets I’ve ever had the misfortune to visit. The gents had one broken urinal, two broken hand dryers and floors which didn’t look like they’d been mopped for a week. The stupid plastic (assuming white) pull bar on the inside of the cubicle had black grime caked along its entire length…the lighting was so bad I almost touched it, but luckily I noticed the filth before doing so. My wife and family members said the Ladies toilets were of a similar shocking state. We are not hygiene freaks, I expect a pub’s toilets to be a bit rough and I almost expect one of the dryers to be broken, after all, that’s why Levi’s are so absorbent, but this was months of accumulated grime. The staff seemed friendly enough and I know they must struggle to stay motivated in a bar which apart from our party, was virtually empty by 9.30 on a Saturday Night! We got the feeling the place was being allowed to slowly die. Neither the menu nor the standard of the food is going to attract customers to return and word is spreading, so new repeat customers are an unlikely prospect. I wouldn’t recommend The Poet to anyone. We will not return and I would rather drive a bit further to a decent bar rather than waste money on an establishment stuck in the past and living on the reputation of the Lonely Poet.

The carvery Sunday roast was really good. Great value for money and nice venue. Only disappointing thing about this venue was the lady sitting vaping while people were eating and what made it even more disappointing was she had the poets uniform on.

rang 12 times to book for lunch, 8 of us in total. good spot. however, despite ringing at various days and times. no one answers. therefore havent been.

I was here recently with family for an early evening dinner. The food was decent and reasonably priced. I had the burger and chips which was pretty tasty. Not the biggest I’ve ever had but still good enough value for money. The daube of beef and the fish and chips looked to be the best options. The only thing that irritated me seemed to be that music was playing from two different areas at once and competing with each other which was a bit distracting at times.

Big 40th I had in the poet ,the absolute king of cherryvalley We had a area reserved of for us for around 30 people and plenty of space for us also being able to get down early to get set up etc. The poet is a great spot to begin with, easy to get parked ,staff where very attentive and it was very easy to get a drink with a wide selection of scoops,a real good buzz about the night with fellow poeters that were not part of the party ,with the Dj playing some marvelous bangers to work alongside his great sense of humour On a personal note nights like these are important they bring ,friends that have not been together for a while ,family getting a chance to let the hair down once in a while and more importantly everyone making memories in a smashing environment that was made possible by the poet Overall, it was an absolutely wonderful evening, and lots of new poet fans made along the way .Thank you.

The chefs are truly amazing in the Poet and the bar staff are brilliant and great craic. You will travel far to get a place like this where the food is awesome and staff very attentive and friendly. Well done guys keep up the good work 😃

We had my sons 21st birthday party here. The staff couldn't do enough for him to make it special. Food was fab. Staff were amazing . Definitely would recommend the poet. We'll certainly be back .

Went for dinner for a family get together. From we arrived and until we left, staff were fantastic and extremely welcoming and attentive. Food was excellent and presented to a very high standard. Amazing chefs and staff are really good fun. Brilliant night and I would definitely recommend to anyone to visit The Poet. Thank you to the chefs and the staff for a great night.

Inhospitable. Make barricades to send you out and clean up instead of serving and wanting you stay and spend money.

Well what can I say totally outstanding from I walked through the doors made very welcome from the staff ordered the chicken strips tender and succulent and a light batter totally outstanding food and will definitely recommend and be back again

decided to take my wife and mother in law for lunch service was good and friendly.my wife had scampie for her main she declared it the best she had ever had i did not fare so well with my steak.orderd blue but was cooked medium and was a bit on the tough side. we loved the atmosphere and friendly staff. mother cant wait to go back. not the cheapest lunch,but that was due to the lage glasses of wine we ordered we will be back

My Husband and I had a meal yesterday evening in The Poet Bar and Grill and we came by taxi. My Husband is waiting for Hip Replacement Surgery ad has to use a walking stick to get around as he is in severe pain. After I paid for the meal I tried to phone for a taxi but unfortunately my mobile wasn't working properly so I asked the Receptionist if she could phone for a taxi for us, she stated that it was not company policy to phone for a taxi and that was the end of the conversation. The Manager came over to find out what was happening and he also was totally disinterested even though he had seen my Husband struggling when he came in to the restaurant. It was most stressful as we had no way to get home and the attitude of the Manager and Receptionist showed no consideration for our situation whatsoever. Surely under the circumstances it would have taken only a few moments to lift the phone and try and be helpful and considerate. We obviously will not be back to The Poet Bar and Grill and will make it very clear to our friends of the staff's attitude.

About 12 of us were here Saturday night. The food itself was OK, but the waiter got the order wrong, hence 2 of our party had to wait an additional 10 minutes for their steaks, whilst everyone else had been served.Tge waitress with the long dark hair was pretty sullen throughout, could be heard audibly berating the young boy who screwed up the order, then came out with barely an apology.And of course, given the waiting incompetence and sullen demeanor, I would at least have expected a profuse apology or for something to be knocked off the bill. Not a chance.Over £ 300 we spent collectively there. Enjoy it cos won't be eating here again.This used to be a nice dining experience but it's not good now, other places are much better.To top it all, a dj then came on blaring down a mic around 9pm, making any conversation difficult.And for what! As there were about 6 people down the other end of the bar. Poet, get your act together.

Went to Poet for few drinks with friend now that restrictions lifted in NI. Arrived at 8.30 pm as pub advertised that it was open until 11 pm. At 9.45 pm staff were asking that we place our last orders as they had decided to shut at 10 as there were only 8 customers in the bar. How can our pubs/restaurants expect to get business back to normal if they effectively decide what time to close on a night by night basis? Maybe the head of Hospitality Ulster should look a little closer as to why the pubs in NI are going out of business - cant blame Covid now. I for one will never be back there and I will be advising family and friends to do likewise.

Visited The Poet for lunch with friends. Food was fine but the front of house waitress is atrocious! When we came through the door her first words were 'How many are yous?' Second were 'Yous can sit over there' said with a sullen face! What's wrong Poet? Such a nice pub and restaurant! Not the first time we've had this experience with this particular waitress. We asked for a wine list and the response was 'We don't have one' . No explanation or apology.

The first time since lock-down that my friends and I got to meet up we went for dinner at The Poet. We had to pre-book, particularly as it was during the governments Eat out to Help out scheme. Our table was well distanced from the others. The laminated menu had a reduced range of food. The waiting staff weren't wearing face coverings but the place was clean and many of the other tables had also been reserved. The food was well received - fish and chips, chicken, steak. The sticky toffee pudding was enormous! We were able to have a lazy dinner and catch up. The bill was a while coming.

Had delicious family meal tonight. Fish chunky chips ,glazed Goujons skinny fries and sticky toffee pudding. Highly recommend. Staff so friendly ,great service and will be back

We came back here for my father’s birthday. The food was just as great as ever and the staff friendly and helpful.

I was here recently for lunch. It was fairly quiet which was nice and we took a seat in the corner. The staff were very friendly and attentive and the seating was comfortable. Menu choice was good and reasonably priced. I had scampi and chips which was nicely done.

Went on here for spot of lunch before hosp appointment. I had steak sandwich (med) and hubby had the poet burger with fries.. Both plates of food were delicious. The steak was just right and the fbatteted onion rings were lovely and crispy. The staff were very friendly and polite. The place itself was nice and the toilets were spotless. Would recommend and would def eat here again if in the area.

Won’t be back would give a zero if I could just down to kitchen staff professionalism alone.. called in for a quick bite to eat with a small menu and the very few typical vegetarian options you find everywhere. Food was very bland not just mine but two other people dinning,the pasta sauce was like Grey water only one person complained because we felt bad... the girl server with the dark hair was lovely and we didn’t want to cause a fuss for them anyway they replaced with chips(I was no in a rush for time) but after having a young boy come out stand behind the bar to watch me eat every chip followed by a girl kitchen staff I decided not to eat anymore it had completely put me off along with my mum and niece with their meals. Asked for the bill and when leaving the entire kitchen staff began to stare at us leaving out the window, an ok meal that I could deal with but a very uncomfortable environment for a restaurant. would definitely not recommended.

Hadn't even heard of The Poet until yesterday and was very pleasantly surprised - lovely surroundings, sport on the TVs but not loud, excellent fish chowder, superb service by delightfully polite and pleasant staff. Would definitely recommend.

Had an excellent two course meal this evening with old friend. Two-course meal, Grilled whole place new potatoes and vegetables, followed by strawberry cheesecake, soft drinks, bill about £35. Excellently cooked and served. Good value for money. Highly recommended.

Visited this restaurant for a date night. Ordered the steak and the honey chilli goujons.. very very tasty! Really good quality of food and customer service! Very nice atmosphere with a live singer :)

We were working in the area and stopped in for Dinner (2 adults). Staff were friendly and polite and the food was really good and well priced. There is a good selection of drinks (though a good pint of Thatcher's Cider would have been nice :-) )We finished Dinner and stayed for a drink or two whilst watching the live music. A great little Gem of a Pub / Restaurant.....

Called in for a lunch with hubby and 2 boys on a weekday. The place was busy but there was lots of seats available. Staff were very attentive and quick to take our food and drink order. I ordered the small risotto with a portion of onion rings, hubby ordered the wings n ribs and a Panini, boys had cheese burger and chicken strip meals. We didn't have to wait long for our food which was amazing, everyone loved what they had ordered. My sons selected ice cream and I chose the aero cheesecake for dessert. You cant go wrong with ice cream but the cheesecake was plain cheesecake with some aero sprinkled over it. I have to say I was very disappointed especially after such a great dinner. Will definitely be returning.

Would have called in fairly regularly in the past but became fed up with the limited beer choice mainly bland lagers and Guinness.Pleasantly surprised on recent visit to find Smithwicks and Hophouse 13 available but you had to look for them as the taps were unlit.Better promotion might help to shift a few more pints !

Decidimos que definitivamente no estábamos cocinando hoy, así que nos dirigimos al poeta ya que hemos comido aquí antes.

I must compliment the management and staff of the newly furnished bar. The staff attitude is now first class. Everything is the up and up may it continue

Came here as a couple for lunch, midweek, so fairly quiet. Seated quickly by friendly staff.

We visited as a couple and enjoyed our evening. The staff are very friendly and attentive, especially Carla. The menu was good and the fish pie very tasty and a good portion. Would not hesitate to recommend the poet for a good meal experience.

We had no table booked and it was so nice to walk into seeing someone smile and gave us a choice of table.

My partner and I had the pleasure of eating at this bar restaurant from the moment we arrived the staff where friendly and accommodating, we ordered our food of chilli chicken and chips which I can say was cooked extremely well not dry but juicy with a kick of chilli it was the perfect bar lunch and most certainly will be returning so to any one out there give it a try as the atmosphere was relaxing and the decor was inspired

Been there a few times, the restaurant has been recently decorated and looks nice.

This was our first visit to our new local and we were so impressed! We visited on a Saturday for a drink and the place was busy but not crowded. We were served quickly and found a spot to sit. The live music was also great! Top marks!

Had a lovely lunch with a friend. Service was great and the food was good. Great improvement since new management has taken over. Haven’t visited for a while but will be returning soon.

We ordered the honey chilli chicken goujons with sweet potato fries and onion rings and the scampi and chips. Really flavoursome food although could of done with a bigger portion. The restaurant was lovely and clean and the staff were friendly and helpful. Ordered a cosmopolitan cocktail but it was very bland and lacked oomph. The peach schnapps and cranberry was nearly the same price which is a bit steep. Would definitely visit again though!

5 de nosotros comimos allí anoche, cada uno de ellos ordenando una opción diferente. El ambiente era muy agradable, cálido, acogedor. La camarera Carla estuvo más que dispuesta a ayudarnos con nuestra decisión sobre qué plato elegir e incluso habló con el chef sobre nuestra preocupación por la alergia a los frutos secos para uno de nuestro grupo. El chef hizo un poco de Panacotta en el lugar para asegurarse de que el postre estuviera totalmente libre de nueces, para el deleite de nuestra fiesta. El cerdo Belly with Champ era para morirse, se cocinaba a la perfección y se servía muy caliente, al igual que el resto de los platos, el recuerdo, Scampi, Pollo a la pimienta, Merluza y el suculento bistec. ¡Buena calidad gastronómica a un precio de gama media!

Como cliente habitual del almuerzo, observé cómo la transformación de un Pub Restaurant de estilo antiguo con poca inversión se trasladaba a un destino más optimista con el antiguo servicio clave retenido y los complicados menús y cócteles anteriores, mientras que los estándares de servicio se mantenían y la comida, bebida y entretenimiento mejorado Mi esposa, mi nieta de quince años y yo tuvimos una excelente comida en un ambiente agradable.

I was there a fun Sunday's ago and I said how the service was so bad people waiting for a hour for meals and people leaving but I was there just last week and I must say things have changed for the better. Plenty of staff no waiting to order. Managing Staff has accepted my criticism and took all on board to make terrific changes. Sorry I can't be there for their party from 14th to 17th I will be in Spain.

Sólo me gustaría decir que la comida y el ambiente fue increíble tonite? Reservamos para cenar y no nos decepcionó. Los 3 de nosotros tuvimos entrantes que eran risotto de pollo para mí, rollitos asiáticos de primavera para mi esposa y calamares salados para nuestra hija, ¿todos para morirse? los platos principales consistían en un solomillo perfecto para Jr, un pato hermoso para mi mejor mitad y pasta de mariscos para mí. Me gustaría agradecer a Leigh especialmente por ser tan divertida y tan atenta con todo y tan atenta a nuestras necesidades y a la mejor camarera que hemos tenido. Gracias, Leigh, ¿y no puedo esperar a volver para más de tu craic? Perdón, quiero mencionar el resto del personal que fue increíble también.

Fish is cooked in delicate creamy sauce and topped with fresh mashed potatoes, all cooked to perfection and served in an individual baking dish. The staff are friendly and very attentive. The atmosphere is relaxed and you can have a conversation without having to shout.

Tuvimos el domingo almuerzo allí, la comida en el menú era buena y los precios son razonables, fue el servicio que lo estropeó para mí.

Llamé esta tarde con un amigo después de un pesado día de compras de Navidad, y ambos tenían un risotto de remolacha con cebollas caramelizadas y nueces, que estaba delicioso. Nada fue demasiado para el personal, preguntamos si podíamos tener un risotto con crema y otro sin y la respuesta fue "No hay problema en absoluto"

We popped in for a quick bite to eat before the cinema & were offered the early bird menu (2 courses £14).

Haven't been here from my brother was head chef.

Nice Atmosphere friendly staff, plenty of choice on the menu. Two courses for £14 before 6 pm v-good. Will be back again.

Has to be my favourite eaterie in East Belfast if not whole of Belfast.

Un restaurante agradable, recomendado por un amigo. Llamé y una mesa reservada, a su llegada, el personal no podía encontrar nuestra reserva, y luego tuvimos que esperar 30 minutos por una mesa.

There were 12 of us had dinner here last night and we were all really impressed with the food! Great atmosphere with a live band on too!

Recently I invited some folks to join my wife and me for Sunday lunch and we went to The Poet. We have been here many, many times and always enjoyed Sunday lunch. This time was no exception!

Reservamos una cena para dos en la víspera de Navidad con la otra mitad. La comida era estupenda y el ambiente excelente (como cabe esperar en Nochebuena) nos dimos el capricho de cócteles menú Cóctel de celebración, cada uno de los cuales era tan agradable como la última. El servicio a la mesa también era muy bueno. No tomar el nombre de la camarera que nos cuidaron, pero ella era de primera clase, de principio a fin. Ejecución de nuestra comida, para asegurarse la comida estaba bien, para asegurarnos que nuestros vasos nunca estaban vacíos. Todo el tiempo siendo muy cálido y agradable. Que yo sepa no sería si tuviera que trabajar en Nochebuena. Nos alojamos en luego de la comida para un par de copas y el bar era como cabe esperar en una noche como la víspera de Navidad. Todavía llenos, pero el servicio era rápido. He ido al poeta en varias ocasiones y siempre lo recomiendo a mis amigos y familia pero estaba particularmente impresionado ayer. Gran noche. Altamente recomendado.

I was pleased to get a table here at lunchtime without booking for an impromptu Christmas outing for family.

Our nearest restaurant where we enjoyed a dinner meal. One starter of seafood chowder, delicious, and mains of chicken and mushroom linguini and a chicken dish. I’m a big seafood chowder fan and this was up there with the best I’ve tasted. Being a bit pernickety .. some of the small potatoes could have been swopped for a few bits of extra fish, but .. the sauce was creamy and tasty.

Un lugar fabuloso para visitar y disfrutar de una noche relajante. Gran comida de calidad a excelentes precios, junto con el magnífico personal (muy amable montón). También, mientras cena, excelente melodías jugar en el fondo. Ambiente fantástica, y una buena selección de cervezas, vinos, whiskys y cócteles. Vale la pena una visita informal.

Los cócteles, posiblemente debido a que el camarero no estaba allí, así que la camarera tenía que cubrir, pero aparte de eso, la comida era excepcionalmente. Tanto mi compañero y yo tuvimos la langosta en queso y fue divino. Llegó con brócoli y patatas fritas, aunque no importa más de salsa en la langosta para mi chips no obstante sin duda volveré.

Visité el poeta el viernes 28 de julio para una comida familiar, la comida, el servicio fue excelente en nuestra mesa estaba reservado para 4 personas pero más miembros de la familia se unieron a nosotros el personal era muy servicial nos trasladaron a una...

Paramos aquí para la cena del domingo y tenía una fabulosa cena (carne asada con todos los adornos y la carne se evapora), con un fantástico servicio, con comida de alta calidad a precios excelentes en relación calidad-precio. Sin duda lo recomiendo y cristiana y...

Vine aquí con mis hijos, disfrutamos de cada minuto. El servicio era estupendo, muy buen menú. La comida era excelente pronto 👌

La comida es fabulosa aquí; he estado varias veces y seguro que volveré. La comida es absolutamente perfecto cada vez y el personal siempre estupenda: profesional y amable. Sus cócteles son acertadas y hacen un buen vino blanco o dos :) Pero sinceramente la comida es fabulosa y creo que verás a lo que me refiero si no has estado y vaya de visita

Not only was the food fabulous at this restaurant, the presentation was delightful and the service excellent. We all agreed that it was a long time since we had tasted dishes in which every item was superbly cooked and visually appealing. In fact we had intended just to have two courses - there's a great two course deal- but we were so impressed that everyone had to try a dessert. They did not disappoint - brilliant. Compliments to the chef and all the extremely pleasant staff. We will return - often.

We had dinner in the Poet with six friends all in their 50s and 60s. It has a really nice atmosphere with a wide mix of ages both eating and at the bar. The background music was a little loud but then we are getting on a bit. In general the food was very good. Squid as a starter was a large serving. Soup was good although one of our group thought the seafood chowder was a bit thick. Main courses were excellent as were the sweets. Prices are ok. Later in the evening there was live music. All round a good night out.

Great evening out, a super menu with food of a really high standard. Chef to be commended as food was in a different league to the average meal last night at a local - definitely be back

Had seen this restaurant when going to friends house so today we decided to go here.Staff were very friendly. I had the scampi in batter, a crispy light batter and it was lovely. My two friends had a steak sandwich and a burger both came out, lovely presentation and were yummy. For dessert I had the sticky toffee pudding and vanilla ice-cream. Not too many people in, but was nice atmosphere. If you smoke there is a nice little room were you can go, it has a partial roof but was lovely and sunny.All in all a lovely meal and we will be back.

We called into The Poet tonight on spec. We were greeted at the door as we came in by a lovely girl. We were given a choice of seat. Our server was so nice, polite & welcoming. The service was excellent. Our meal was absolutely fantastic. Cooked to perfection & set the tastebuds tingling.Thank you to the staff for a lovely evening. We will most definitely be back. Sooner rather than later.

I was introduced to The Poet (formerly known as The Lonely Poet) by colleagues and I have been frequenting it ever since! Whether for a lunchtime getaway for a wee bit of solace, or treating a colleague to lunch, or especially for a Sunday lunch, I have found The Poet hard to beat, never mind comparing! Most recently, I have been enjoying the Sunday roast menu and it doesn't matter whether it is the chicken (a great plate full) or the beef (massive Yorkshires!), you will not be disappointed. Also, if you can get a plateful of their smoked haddock risotto ... you will enjoy it immensely!

I would highly recommend The Poet. We had three courses and each dish was very good, I lived the duck main. The chocolate torte and banana ice cream was also amazing. Service was of a very high standard and overall it was a very enjoyable experience, we will definitely be returning.

Met here for a quick family catch up and ended up staying all afternoon. Food was ok. Portions small. The waiters were very obliging sorted me out not too hot wings - one of my favourites. Recommended a great gin cocktail as well. only down side was one of the waitresses very obviously having a bad day !!!

Had early dinner last Friday. The seafood chowder was absolutely fantastic. I would highly recommend it.

My son had told us he had eaten at this Bar n Restaurant and raved about it! So my husband n i decided to give it a try. It is set off the main road, and you would probably miss it if you hadnt directions. The bar was busy with the rugby being shown, but we were seated by a window. The service was excellent and we could see into the open kitchen as the food was being made.. Food came prompt and was excellent, nice n hot and the waitress was attentive throughout. We seen from the notice board they had live music at weekends, and opened for Sunday lunch. This was our first visit but wont be our last.

Friends recommended this lovely little spot so off we went today to pay a visit. What an excellent spot! Quirky decor with magazine stuck to the ceilings, typewriters at reception. We were greeted and served by two very cheerful and helpful waitresses. We dine off the Sunday Lunch at a very resonance one course £12, two courses £16 or three courses £20. Three of us had the carrot and bacon soup which was delicious. I had the Roast Beef with Yorkshire Pudding and vegetable and it was excellent. We didn't try desserts this time but we will on our next visit. Very clean, neat, tidy with happy helpful staff. Well Done!

This is a great pub to visit. Food and drink are excellent with a lot of local beers on offer. Maggie's Leap is just out of this world! The pub is not hard to find. If you take a number 19 bus it will leave you right at the door on the King's Road.I brought my partner to this pub just to let him experience Northern Ireland at its best and I could not get him out of the place!!

First time vist and definitely came away impressed. Excellent Steak! Menu is very well priced and the staff were very friendly.

What can I say this place is great!my fiancé took me here for our 1st year anniversary and ever since I can't stop thinking about the fish,the fish was beautiful and the steak was great too! Bar and smoking area..it has close shops so handy after a bit to eat it is also right beside a coop!

Called in for a bite to eat meatballs for me and chicken for the boss Louise lol great service great food and readonable cost will return

Called in for a quick lunch and were not disappointed, great food limited menu for vegetarian s. Super beetroot risotto and a brunch. (See photo)Friendly service very polite staff don't know why we have never been before, but we will call back soon.

Super wee pub to relax in or watch the sport. Great outdoor seating area, and wide selection of well priced drinks. Well worth visiting

Went to the Poet on Friday night and got their Steak offer. Steak was goregous and the breads to start were lovely too. Staff very friendly.

First time trying out The Poet and it was brilliant. My gf and I shared the duck spring rolls which tasted and looked perfect. I had the pork schnitzel as a main, she had the veg risotto. The pork schnitzel was a big portion - lucky I was hungry. And finally, we greedily ordered dessert. The sticky toffee pudding and strawberry cheesecake. We left feeling full and satisfied. Would highly recommend this restaurant. Good area for parking outside. The atmosphere inside is great. My only criticism is I feel the seats were too low for the tables. But that really is it.

Food good but not a great choice on menu....ideal for a few drinks local entertainment can be a hit or miss

Lunch with our daughter who has learning difficulties. When I asked her opinion about The Poet, she first said "The people are very friendly" . This was my first impression also - we were greeted by Leigh as if we had just made her day by coming in! Her hint on going for the Lite Bite if we didn't want too much was helpful. So too were the finger bowl of warm water and plentiful supply paper napkins to clean up after chicken wings.At dessert time, we were brought extra plates and spoons, in case the one who hadn't ordered anything had a change of mind.Altogether a very pleasant experience, all who served us were special. Oh - and the food was good too, and reasonably priced.As for the quirky decor - I don't recall being anywhere else where there were children's comics and books stuck to the ceiling, or the dessert menu came clipped to classic children's books!

Popped on last Sunday for some lunch and was really happy with the whole experience. A very friendly waitress took our drinks order and was able to talk through the varied menu with confidence. I had the meatballs and my friend had the squid and we were both impressed at the quality and taste of both dishes. The portions were just right and great value for money. I would highly recommend the poet for lunch and a good catch up.

We walked from the nearby cinema to The Poet to pick up a taxi home. Because it was 9pm we just had starters, Summer Risotto and Duck Rolls. Both dishes were nearly main course servings and excellent. Pleasant ambience and good service. As we left the place had livened up when the four piece group started. Will return for a second time to try the full experience and something from the extensive Cocktail list perhaps the Zombie Classic " four rums, lime and lemon juice, orgeat, pineapple and grapefruit with an overproof rum flame" ! Needed to look up orgeat. Will need a taxi after that.

Wrote a glowing review late last year on our meal here and at last we returned! Decided to have what we did the last time as it was so delicious...sadly they had stopped doing the small portion of fish and chips and mushy peas but knew the husband could probably help out ...but...Very disappointing, fish was pretty tasteless and, in their infinite wisdom it was placed ON the mushy peas, result soggy batter....my chips were pale and uninteresting, possibly needing a few more minutes of cooking, although my husband's were much better. .... left half my meal....husband starving so he ate all his but turned down my 'leavings'.So a 'could do better' on this meal, the place was bustling and music pretty good, service polite and efficient enough although no one ever came and enquired about our thoughts on the meal but not sure that I will return, meal was expensive for what is basically a bar meal of fish and chips - although don't mind paying it when the meal is good, but this was disappointing especially when I know they can do better, my rating would have been even lower if my other half hadn't eaten all his!!

Went for dinner on Saturday evening, didn't think the menu was great. Decided on a seafood starter and fish & chips, food was very good. Nice surroundings and the live music was very enjoyable. Will return again soon.

Really enjoyed a friendly afternoon in this restaurant. The lunchtime menu has lots of choices and our waitress, Hilary was a great help. Will call again

I recommend up grade to gold with out doubt. The staff and chief here are outstanding the food was amazing well presented hot served professionally. Plenty of room comfortable entertainment. Those who smoke has a built-in smoking dome. Waiting staff very professional well mannered. Camerian the duty supervisor had every thing in hand. Food drinks priced fairly and not over the Top. General area and toilets spotless. I would have not problems of returning and bringing Guests to. Well done guy's

Lovely food and staff. Great atmosphere. Rec for all ages. Easy parking . best breakfast in area.Music on certain nights.

wanted a nice meal with my husband and my son......didnt book but it was steak night.....turns out to be great value ..2 x 10oz sirloins with onion rings chunky chips and pepper sauce plus a starter of assorted breads(warm) with tapinade and oils and also a bottle of red or white wine for £45.we also ordered the crab starter and the pork and apple fritters ...both were delicious..... The steaks were well cooked and tender...all served quite quickly and the whole experience was very pleasant, I will definately be back as this was great value!

Way home called in to the Poet. For a bite.Eaten many time and returned because you get good wholesome food.On arrival obviously it was still busy from the afternoons euros football. We was still warmly welcomed. And quickly seated.We had been passed the menus but had seen a card advertising steak Night deal.Starter of large platter of mixed breads, with tapenade, rich balsamics and pesto. The main was a choice of Either sirloin or rib eye steaks with chips and onion rings and peppered sauce.Along with a choice of bottle of wine. All for £45 for two.The steaks were perfectly cooked.and service was brillant. Both of us were stuffed with the size of dishes. And sadly unable to partake in a sweet or coffee. Maybe next time.The bar is suitable for disable customers and ample free parking close to the front door.Meal was certainly to a high standard value for money and great service. Thanks team Poet .See you soon .

My partners family and I visited here for a birthday on Wednesday 5th May . Surroundings were lovely staff and service spot on . The only negative we had was portion size. My partner and I had surf and turf there were 5 tiny tiny pieces of scampi and a little silver bucket of fries . MY partners father and sister both got pork belly which didn't come with a side but if we had of been advised to order extra sides we would have and the other two people got the burger which was defiantly the best value for money.

Visited today, work close by but this is my first visit to the Poet in a while. I wasn't disappointed. Had the daily special - seared salmon with potato gnocchi, artichokes, fresh Spring greens (beautiful asparagus, peas and broad beans) and hollandaise sauce which I asked for on the side. Didn't even need the sauce, the fish and veg were so fresh and tasty, beautifully presented and very much enjoyed. Staff lovely also, friendly and informative. Enjoyed a coffee and mint afterwards (always welcome when you don't want a full dessert). Definitely will be back soon!!

Pleasant suburban pub atmosphere with good parking right outside. Very pleasant staff, chatty but not intrusive. Very good chowder with a couple of average pieces of wheaten bread. Might well try again soon for a full meal.

Delicious cod saltimbocca with gnocchi this evening. No idea if that is how you spell it but I would eat it again and again. I could have been in any of Belfast's top restaurants, it was that delicious. Would have posted a photo but there was none left to photograph!Recommend coming here. It's a new chef and he's cooking lovely stuff.

Haven't been in awhile and I miss it, here's hoping it won't be to long till we are all back again.Enjoy your meal anyone who goes.....

Went here for dinner with my family. Delicious food, well presented & excellent service. Good selection of food on the main menu - the dessert menu could have been a bit better, especially for those who need gluten free, but all in all highly recommended.

Food excellent. Good choice of cocktails. Relaxed atmosphere and very enjoyable night. Definitely be back again for more food, cocktails and music

Thanks to the staff for looking after us so brilliantly. The food was terrific, we enjoyed visiting here we had a great time. Special notes are they know how to do a blue steak and it is very good value for money. Highly recommended for pub food, it's very good indeed.

Didn't have anything to eat but the food looked lovely so we will be back soon for dinner. Band (2 men with acoustic guitars) were really good, playing a great mix of songs, but not so loud that you couldn't hear the conversation round the table. Cocktails were fantastic, served by enthusiastic staff...Christmas themed cocktails were a great addition. Even when we ordered 'off menu' the staff were more than happy to accommodate us, with delicious results

The poet is a real gem in east Belfast and carried a good range of drinks and an imaginative decor. The place is chilled out and the menu is quality! Worth the detour in east Belfast.