Cafes

Al’s cafe - Belfast BT13 1FP

4.6 21 reviews 09:00 AM - 02:45 PM 171 Shankill Rd, Belfast BT13 1FP, United Kingdom

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Al’s cafe is a neighborhood eatery located on Shankill Road in Belfast. It offers a menu rooted in classic Northern Irish and British café fare, featuring iconic dishes such as the Ulster Fry and steak ciabatta with sirloin and peppercorn sauce. The cafe also serves specialty coffees like Americano and breakfast items including French toast topped with bacon and maple syrup. The atmosphere is cozy and intimate, with a small seating area that fosters a welcoming and informal dining experience. Al’s cafe maintains a focus on straightforward, well-prepared comfort food that reflects local culinary traditions. The establishment accommodates a variety of dietary needs by providing gluten-free options and a diverse selection of soups, sandwiches, wraps, and other light meals. As a local fixture, it blends a sense of community with practical service, making it a distinctive stop for both residents and visitors who seek an authentic taste of Belfast’s café culture.

Photos

Amenities & More

Service options

No-contact delivery
Delivery
Takeout
Dine-in

Highlights

Great coffee
Great dessert

Popular for

Breakfast
Lunch
Solo dining

Dining options

Breakfast
Brunch
Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Dessert
Seating

Atmosphere

Casual

Note: Amenity details are aggregated from verified visits, the venue's website and Google. They may change without notice. We recommend confirming key details (pet policy, accessibility, reservations) directly with Al’s cafe - Belfast BT13 1FP before visiting.

Reviews for Al’s cafe - Belfast BT13 1FP

4.6

21 reviews

100%

Review highlights

Based on 21 reviews

Al’s Cafe in Belfast’s Shankill Road is frequently praised for its authentic local atmosphere and quality offerings, making it a favored spot for both residents and visitors seeking a genuine Belfast experience. Patrons commonly highlight the standout breakfast options, particularly the Ulster Fry and creative dishes like bacon on French toast. The coffee receives consistent compliments, though pricing can be viewed as slightly premium. Service is noted for being friendly and attentive, with thoughtful touches such as accommodating children and providing gluten-free options. Despite its small size, which can occasionally lead to seating challenges, Al’s Cafe maintains a welcoming and informal environment. Additionally, the cafe’s capability to cater for special events with varied and carefully presented menus further reflects its commitment to customer satisfaction. Overall, Al’s Cafe is recognized for combining hearty, well-prepared food with personable service in a cozy setting.

John Smith

Sep 25, 2025

I've said about als cafe on my Google but today was something special as you can see on before and after pic . I do really recommend this place for locals and tourist alike . So to the tourist feeling like something try here come off the beaten track off what the tourist board says this is real belfast the shankill rd al cafe defo my favourite place by far followed by cuffs in second place . This food experience has made my Saturday the biggest food critic is my son if he ssy a place is good and nice food he hasn't been wrong yet . I'm lost for words due to this food . Forget your Michelin stars . On second thoughts to the Michelin guide come to this place rate the food and put the real belfast on theap i nstead off the city centre I still maintain this is the best place to eat out off inbelfast by far even the outside catering I get to taste as bar man . Its defo worth the money don't fall into traps by the local tourist industry experience belfast at it realist

Chris Kearney

Sep 24, 2025

Got 2 Big Al Fry's £ 7 each not bad and 2 coffees came to £22 so 2 coffees £8 fry was lovely thou.

Robert Williamson

Aug 23, 2025

Just had this bad boy ... First time being in here... Outstanding, (there was pepper sauce too ...very good service and the child wasn't allowed to leave without Lollies lol ... Great work guys

Andy

Aug 23, 2025

It's quite small so sometimes it is difficult to get seated. Really good coffee and a fantastic Ulster Fry. On a previous visit I had bacon on French toast with maple syrup which was equally impressive.

Lorraine Ross

Jul 30, 2025

This cafe catered for my father's funeral and everything was first class. They provided lots of variety from soup,curry,sandwiches,wraps, chicken skewers, etc etc. They also provided a gluten free option boxed separately. Highly recommended.

Crusaders Knights

Jul 28, 2025

Absolutely brilliant. Yummy sandwiches. Best cocktail sausages ever. Fast and reliable. Thank you.