An East Belfast pub has been named Northern Ireland Pub and Bar of the Year.
Hearth, situated on the Upper Newtownards Road, was awarded the title at the grand final of the National Pub and Bar Awards 2023 in London on Wednesday night, June 28.
Six NI venues were previously named the best in their county and battled for the regional title.
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Posting on Facebook after the win, Hearth said: "HEARTH picked up the Pub of the Year award for Northern Ireland in London at the prestigious National Pub & Bar awards.
"The award recognises the dedication of the team lead by Aaron Wright as well as owners Sarah & Phil Patterson’s commitment to both developing and supporting their entire team.
"The pub was commended for its pivotal role as a social hub in Ballyhackamore, providing regular entertainment for locals including quizzes, live music and championing health awareness as well as raising funds for good causes. Judges also commended the pub for its warm hospitable welcome.
"This great news for Sarah and Phil comes as they re-opened their business in October after suffering many setbacks including two fires at the venue in 2021 and 2022.
"HEARTH will see further expansion and investment this year when the upstairs function room and private whiskey bar opens for members of their successful society. The function room will be free to use for all.
“'The feeling of coming back home to a place with heart.'”
Manager Aaron said: “We are equally humbled and delighted, our customers make us who we are. A very proud moment for East Belfast."
The county winners previously announced were:
- Tyrone - Bogans
- Down - The Maghera Inn
- Fermanagh - The Taphouse
- Armagh - The Hole in the Wall
- Derry - Peadar O'Donnell's
- Antrim - Hearth
They were among 94 pubs and bars across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland which scooped up the prestigious County Winner titles announced in April.
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