The National Grande Cafe is set in the historic surrounding of one of Belfast’s oldest buildings, the former National Bank Building on High Street. Inside lies an intentionally unfinished industrial modern interior of exposed bricks, steel girders and concrete floors.  The girders are now painted in the unmistakable yellow of Samson and Goliath and sit alongside artwork by local artist Gavin Millar.

It is home to one of the largest dedicated beer gardens in Belfast and the first in the heart of the Cathedral Quarter, which comes complete with its very own apple tree, direct from the Magners orchard in Clonmel. This outside space brings a new dimension to al fresco socialising in the city.

From morning until early evening, customers can relax in the airy contemporary space, enjoying the breakfast, lunch and evening menus. There are old favourites for breakfast like the full National or eggs Benedict and newbies like brioche French toast with jam and mascarpone or baked egg with avocado, sunblush tomato and feta on toasted sourdough.  Lunch options incorporate café style food and hot specials which run into the evening. The Sunday brunch menu has given a boost to the local culinary scene, with a varied menu which has gained a faithful following since opening.

Drinks wise, the cocktail list is small but clever and sits well alongside a wide range of gin, whiskey, rum and tequila. There is also a number of locally brewed craft beers.