Morning Star, Belfast

If this is an historic tavern as it claims, then they've hidden any evidence of it very well. High stools and tables on one side of the bar and a dining area up a couple of steps at the other side. It's a self service job at lunchtimes, which means massive plateloads of food being taken away to the tables by the greedy types. It looks like excellent value for money although I can't comment on the quality as we didn't eat. Standard array of Irish kegs served by the liveried, efficient bar staff. Beware of the short measures though. We called in twice and I had to ask for my Guinness to be topped up both times as it was almost a couple of inches from the brim. It's not one of my favourite Belfast pubs I'm afraid, but others could well find it very good.

Tucked away down Pottingers Entry which, unlike some other Belfast alleyways, is signposted and easily spotted from the High St. I found it attractive but fairly unremarkable for an “historic” pub, perhaps I had just seen too many. There is a dedicated area for food which looks popular. The staff seem to have mastered the art of perpetual motion, it made me tired just watching them.