Waterman Restaurant

You're walking up Hill Street towards the Cathedral Quarter and Waterman announces itself with proper intent—big windows, knowing staff, the kind of place that's clearly thought about every detail. The kitchen takes European small plates and mains seriously without getting precious about it, and the drinks programme is genuinely excellent if you're after something beyond a standard G&T. It's got that Belfast thing where you feel like locals actually want to be here, not somewhere designed for tourists to Instagram. The room's got enough energy without being hectic, and you can actually have a conversation.