Belfast isn’t just about striking street murals or lively pubs — it’s also a city where food plays a major role in shaping its character. Its mix of historic pubs, local ingredients, and passionate chefs makes Belfast a fantastic place to explore through a guided food tour. Whether it’s tasting Irish stew, sampling local cheeses, or enjoying a pint of craft beer, you’ll find plenty of flavors to satisfy your curiosity. We especially like the Belfast Walking Food Tour with Secret Food Tours, which combines a walk through historic neighborhoods with delicious bites, all served in charming local spots. This tour offers not only tastings but also a chance to learn about Belfast’s history and street art — a true taste of the city’s soul.
If you’re after a more lively, pub-centered experience, the Belfast: Guided Food Walking Tour with Street Art and Pubs is a great pick. For beer lovers, the Belfast: Guided Craft Beer and Street Food Tour focuses on Belfast’s burgeoning craft beer scene paired with street eats. And if you want a comprehensive, sit-down experience, the Belfast: The Original Belfast Food Tour™ with Drinks offers a more extended tasting of Irish favorites. Below, we take a closer look at each of these options to help you decide which suits your appetite and travel style best.
1. Belfast Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
At number 1, this tour combines a walking exploration of Belfast with tastings of classic Irish fare. Over just 2 to 3 hours, you’ll visit historic pubs, local shops, and hidden spots, all with a small-group limit of 12 for an intimate experience. The guide will not only introduce you to favorite local bites like soda bread, Irish cheeses, smoked salmon, and hearty Irish stew, but also share stories of Belfast’s past, its street art, and its vibrant street life. All food and drink are included, so this is a worry-free way to sample Belfast’s culinary staples without digging into your wallet.
What makes this tour stand out is the blend of history, culture, and gastronomy. Your stops include Belfast City Hall and Queen’s Arcade, giving you a taste of both modern Belfast and its 19th-century charm. The reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, especially Trevor, who combines humor with keen insights. One reviewer mentioned, “The food was great, and Trevor’s storytelling made it unforgettable.” The tour’s value lies in its inclusiveness and its chance to discover local gems you might otherwise miss. It’s perfect for first-time visitors eager to combine sightseeing and tasting in one go.
Bottom line: If you want a compact, friendly tour with a mix of history and local flavor, this is hard to beat.
2. Belfast: Guided Food Walking Tour with Street Art and Pubs
This tour takes a slightly longer, more relaxed approach, lasting about 3 hours. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy exploring street art, historic pubs, and local cuisine all in one go. The guide will lead you through Belfast’s colorful streets, where you’ll sample hot chocolate, a cannolo, and a shot of chocolate liqueur to start warm. One of the highlights is enjoying a freshly caught oyster, opened right in front of you — a memorable experience for seafood lovers. You’ll also get to taste Northern Irish whiskeys, paired perfectly with the atmosphere of traditional pubs.
This walk is not suitable for minors, but it’s ideal for adults wanting an immersive taste of Belfast’s food and drink culture. Visitors rave about Trevor and Ciara’s friendly, knowledgeable approach, making each stop both informative and fun. Many mention that each venue offers a distinct experience, making it a well-rounded culinary adventure.
The tour’s unique features include sampling local cheeses, charcuterie, and artisan drinks while soaking in Belfast’s street art scene. It’s a great choice if you enjoy combining visual art, local beverages, and authentic flavors all in one outing.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a lively mix of street culture, food, and drink — especially if you’re keen on whiskey and seafood.
3. Belfast: Guided Craft Beer and Street Food Tour
For beer enthusiasts, this 3.5-hour tour stands out. It’s focused on Belfast’s thriving craft beer scene, visiting top local breweries and beer bars. Led by a resident beer geek, you’ll sample some of the best beers Belfast’s small breweries produce, paired with street food vendors offering tasty bites. This tour is all about craftsmanship, local ingredients, and a relaxed vibe, making it ideal for those who appreciate a well-crafted pint and flavorful snacks.
What makes this tour distinctive is its emphasis on Belfast’s growing craft beer culture. The guide’s expertise adds depth, with explanations of brewing techniques and local beer styles. Since the tour is relatively short, it suits those who want a focused sample of Belfast’s beer scene without spending the entire evening in pubs. It’s best for travelers who want a casual, fun, and educational experience centered around local brews.
One thing to note is that this tour might be less suitable for anyone not fond of beer, but it’s a perfect pick for those who want to explore Belfast’s new wave of breweries and street food.
Bottom line: If you love craft beer and street eats, this tour offers a lively, flavorful way to spend an afternoon.
4. Belfast: The Original Belfast Food Tour™ with Drinks
Rounding out the list, this 4-hour tour is the most comprehensive, designed for those who want an in-depth taste of Belfast’s food and drink scene. It includes smoked salmon, Irish cheeses, traditional Irish champ served with local cider, and artisan sausage rolls. You’ll also sample locally brewed beers and indulge in award-winning hot chocolate, topped off with a sweet treat.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on classic Irish foods and local drinks, making it ideal for visitors interested in hearty, well-prepared food paired with drinks. The guide’s coverage of top food spots around Belfast City Centre makes it a thorough culinary introduction. Reviewers praise the variety and quality, noting that the tour offers great value for its length and scope.
This tour is suited for travelers who want a more leisurely, sit-down experience with multiple tastings. A possible downside is the longer duration, which might be less appealing for those with limited time or energy.
Bottom line: Best for food lovers eager to experience Irish cuisine in a relaxed, comprehensive setting.
How to Choose the Right Food Tour in Belfast
When selecting a food tour, think about your interests, dietary preferences, and time constraints. For a quick but rich introduction to Belfast’s food scene, the Belfast Walking Food Tour with Secret Food Tours offers a balanced mix of history and bites. If you’re excited about local drinks and street art, the Belfast: Guided Food Walking Tour with Street Art and Pubs is a perfect pick. For craft beer fans, the Belfast: Guided Craft Beer and Street Food Tour provides a flavorful, beer-focused experience. And if you want a longer, more detailed tasting, the Belfast: The Original Belfast Food Tour™ with Drinks is hard to beat.
Consider your fitness level and whether you prefer a shorter walk or a longer sit-down tour. Booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons. Early reservations ensure you secure spots on these popular experiences.
In summary, Belfast offers a diverse range of guided food experiences that showcase its culinary and cultural richness. Whether you prefer a quick bite-and-walk, a pub crawl with street art, a craft beer adventure, or a more extensive tasting tour, there’s something to suit every appetite. For those planning a trip, booking early guarantees a spot in these tasty adventures — so pick your favorite and get ready to enjoy Belfast’s flavors firsthand.