Cuff’s Bar and Grill at the Crumlin Road Goal

Updated On: March 29, 2024 by   Ciaran Connolly

What could be better than a delicious meal after a fantastic and exciting historical tour of the Crumlin Road Gaol? Cuff’s Bar and Grill is situated on the Crumlin Road Gaol Site and offers lunch and dinner most days from noon. If you only fancy a coffee or a drink, it is also perfect – providing everything from cappuccinos to cocktails.

You can also visit this restaurant even if you haven’t been part of a tour, and they often offer themed nights with a show and dinner included in the price.

Cuff’s cosy décor and low lighting create the perfect atmosphere, as well as an extensive bar area and plenty of well-spaced tables. There is plenty of space for couples, families or larger groups. The service is excellent, and the staff is friendly and welcoming from the moment you enter. We were immediately seated and brought chilled water to the table straight away.

The menu offers a good range of choices (including some prison-themed delights with an Irish twist) with daily specials – they also have a great children’s menu. Ingredients are locally sourced, and the staff accommodates all tastes – from meat lovers to vegans. The prices are surprisingly reasonable, and there are various delicious side dishes.

Historical Backdrop of Cuff’s Bar and Grill

Before delving into the gastronomic delights of Cuff’s, it’s essential to appreciate the significance of its location. Crumlin Road Gaol, once a formidable Victorian-era prison, has transformed remarkably from a place of confinement to a cultural landmark. Constructed in the mid-19th century, the gaol witnessed over 150 years of tumultuous history, incarcerating prisoners ranging from petty thieves to political dissidents.

Today, the gaol serves as a museum and event space, offering visitors a glimpse into Northern Ireland’s past. Cuff’s Bar and Grill, situated within this historic edifice, seamlessly blends contemporary dining with a nod to its storied past, creating an atmosphere unlike any other.

Transformation into Cuff’s Bar and Grill

In 2012, following extensive renovations, Crumlin Road Gaol reopened its doors to the public as a heritage and tourist attraction. Among the notable additions was Cuff’s Bar and Grill, a restaurant that pays homage to the gaol’s legacy while offering a contemporary dining experience. Named after Samuel William Cuff, a former prison governor, the establishment blends elements of tradition and modernity, creating a space where patrons can dine amidst echoes of the past.

Ambience and Atmosphere

Stepping into Cuff’s is akin to embarking on a journey through time. The restaurant’s interior design pays homage to the gaol’s Victorian architecture, with exposed brick walls, wrought iron fixtures, and dimly lit corridors evoking a sense of nostalgia. The sight of refurbished prison cells greets patrons, now repurposed as intimate dining nooks, each exuding its unique charm.

The ambience is further enriched by subtle touches such as vintage photographs adorning the walls, depicting scenes from the gaol’s heyday. The faint footsteps echo reverberate through the corridors, a poignant reminder of the countless individuals who once walked these hallowed halls.

Despite its historical backdrop, Cuff’s exudes warmth and hospitality. The attentive staff, clad in period attire, welcome guests with genuine smiles and a wealth of knowledge about the gaol’s history. Whether it’s a romantic dinner for two or a gathering of friends, the restaurant’s ambience sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience.

Here are some of the tempting choices on offer

Starters

Bread Board – Freshly baked bread served with oils, butter and olives. This breadboard was beautifully presented – almost a shame to eat it! A great selection of breads accompanied by delicious oils – plenty for two to share.

Cornish Cheese Tart – Baked Cornish yarg tart, heirloom tomatoes, black grape chutney and baby salad. Moreover, the description is tempting and sumptuous – and the flavours were exactly as described – the perfect combination.

It is also great to see that the staff are very aware of allergies and food intolerances and happy to ensure that all needs are met.

Main Course

Cod with hand-cut chips – Crispy, light batter with lovely, fresh, flaky cod inside, a tangy caper dressing, and chunky chips with the skin still on – cooked to perfection.

Long Stretch Burger – This is not to be missed if you like burgers. It’s one of the best burger combinations I have tasted! 8oz Ulster steak burger, cheese, back bacon, crispy onion ring, chicken strip and peppered sauce. The burger was cooked perfectly and served beautifully. I love the name, and the flavours are great.

Crispy Chicken Strips – homemade sweet chilli sauce and triple-cooked chips – Chicken was succulent and lightly floured, yummy triple-cooked chips – crunchy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside.

Dessert

As usual, one of my favourite courses is the selection of desserts, which is refreshingly different from the typical choices – so good to see!

Guinness and Pecan Caramel Tart served with Irish Whiskey Chaser Ice Cream – I have never had a dessert like this. Subtle flavours and the ice cream just WOW!

Fresh Coconut and Raspberry Sponge Cake – Traditional but excellent to see on a menu. It is a lovely, moist sponge covered in jam and coconut dressed in double cream and fresh raspberries. A great dessert!

A delicious meal from an extensive menu will be returned to try other tempting items. Maybe salt-aged steak, Irish grass-fed lamb or open lasagne of salmon – decisions – that’s the hard part!

Immersive Dining Experience

What truly sets Cuff’s apart is its commitment to providing an immersive dining experience that extends beyond the plate. The restaurant offers guided tours of the gaol, allowing guests to explore its labyrinthine corridors and learn about its storied past before or after their meal.

For those seeking a truly unforgettable experience, Cuff’s also offers private dining options within the gaol’s original governor’s quarters, where guests can dine in opulent surroundings steeped in history. Whether it’s an intimate dinner party or a corporate event, the restaurant’s dedicated events team works tirelessly to ensure that every detail is perfectly tailored.

Imbibing Behind Bars

No visit to Cuff’s Bar and Grill would be complete without sampling its extensive selection of beverages, which includes an array of craft beers, fine wines, and expertly crafted cocktails. Whether you’re in the mood for a refreshing pint of locally brewed ale or a sophisticated gin and tonic, the bar offers something to suit every taste.

For those seeking a truly immersive experience, Cuff’s Bar and Grill also hosts whiskey tastings, allowing guests to sample some of Ireland’s finest spirits under the guidance of knowledgeable staff. From smooth single malts to complex blends, these tastings provide a fascinating glimpse into the world of Irish whiskey.

Events and Entertainment

In addition to its exceptional dining offerings, Cuff’s Bar and Grill hosts various events and entertainment throughout the year, from live music performances to themed dinner nights. Whether celebrating a special occasion with friends or simply looking to unwind after a day of exploring the gaol, there’s always something happening at Cuff’s.

One of the highlights of the restaurant’s calendar is its annual Halloween extravaganza, during which the gaol is transformed into a haunted maze with spooky decorations and costumed actors. Guests can enjoy a special themed menu and participate in ghost tours of the prison, making for an unforgettable evening of thrills and chills.

Community Engagement and Sustainability

Beyond its culinary offerings, Cuff’s fosters community engagement and promotes sustainability. The restaurant sources ingredients locally wherever possible, supporting small-scale producers and reducing its carbon footprint. In addition, Cuff’s actively participates in initiatives to reduce food waste, implementing creative solutions to repurpose surplus ingredients and minimize environmental impact.

Furthermore, the restaurant collaborates with local schools and community groups to provide educational tours and workshops, inspiring the next generation to appreciate Northern Ireland‘s cultural heritage. Through these efforts, Cuff’s strives to be not only a culinary destination but also a responsible member of the community.

Preserving the Past, Embracing the Future

As much as Cuff’s Bar and Grill pays homage to the rich history of Crumlin Road Gaol, it also looks towards the future, embracing innovation and sustainability in its culinary practices. The restaurant is committed to sourcing ingredients from local producers and suppliers, supporting the community and reducing its environmental footprint.

Through initiatives such as waste reduction and energy efficiency, Cuff’s Bar and Grill seeks to operate in an environmentally responsible and socially conscious manner. By preserving the past while embracing the future, the restaurant ensures that its legacy endures for future generations.

Conclusion

In a city steeped in history, Cuff’s Bar and Grill stands out as a beacon of culinary excellence, offering patrons a unique dining experience that seamlessly blends past and present. From its evocative ambience to its tantalizing menu, every aspect of the restaurant pays homage to the rich heritage of Crumlin Road Gaol while delighting the senses.

Whether it’s a romantic evening for two or a gathering of friends, Cuff’s invites diners to embark on a journey through time, where every meal celebrates Northern Ireland’s culinary heritage. With its commitment to community engagement and sustainability, Cuff’s satisfies the palate and nourishes the soul, leaving a lasting impression on all who enjoy dining within its historic confines.

Have you ever visited Cuff’s Bar and Grill in Belfast at the Crumlin Road Gaol for a lovely meal? Let us know in the comments.

Some other blog posts that may interest you are French Village, Best Restaurants in Belfast.