The Crown Saloon in Belfast

The Crown Liquor Saloon is a well-known Victorian pub in Belfast. Patrick Flanagan had it refurbished in 1885 by using Italian workmen who had come to Belfast to work on the churches. Because of the high quality of workmanship, it was known for being one of the finest gin palaces of the time. The legend is that the man who refurbished the saloon allowed his wife to handle the interior, hence the beautiful windows, the fine wood work, and the mosaic floors. The only thing he required was that the crown be present in the building. In many of the staind glass windows, an English crown is present; but a mosaic crown is also on the entrance floor, ostensibly so that patrons will step on it when they enter. She obviously was not a fan of the monarchy.

Also notable are the still-working gas lamps, and the private snugs, which are private booths, complete with doors, antique bells for alerting staff, and original wood panels.

We found the food to be very good, and the privacy of the snug made for a very fun meal.