King and Queen’s visit showcases excellence in hospitality
Photo credit: Press Eye
Belfast’s hospitality sector took centre stage as King Charles and Queen Camilla made their first stop in Northern Ireland at the Half Bap area of the Cathedral Quarter.
Among those in attendance was Michael Stewart, Belfast City Centre’s Night Czar and a longtime advocate for the city’s nightlife economy. Reflecting on the visit, Stewart described it as a rare moment of recognition for an industry that often operates “in the dark” when it comes to government support.
“Too often, government departments are in the dark when they talk about what happens after dark,” Stewart says. “Hospitality, nightlife, and tourism are massive economic drivers, but they rarely get the attention or investment they deserve. Events like this shine a light on just how vital our industry is—not just for visitors, but for the people of Belfast who live and work here every day.”
As part of their visit, the King and Queen were given a private tour of a new portrait exhibition at the Sea Holly Gallery, commissioned by publicans Willie and Joanne Jack. The exhibition features local workers, from bartenders, musicians, chefs, and everyday tradespeople who have played a key role in shaping the character of the area.
For Stewart, being featured in the exhibition and meeting the King and Queen beside his own portrait was a surreal experience.
“Someone even asked if my portrait was AI-generated it was that accurate!” he laughs. “It was a strange feeling, standing next to a painted version of yourself while chatting with the King and Queen, but it was a real privilege.”
Looking down from the gallery balcony, Stewart and others watched as the royal couple engaged with the crowds below, soaking in the energy of the Cathedral Quarter.
“They were genuinely interested in the people here,” Stewart notes. “You could see it wasn’t just a routine engagement for them. They took their time, asked questions, and really seemed to enjoy the atmosphere.”
Hospitality’s role in Belfast’s cultural and economic landscape
Stewart sees the royal visit as an important moment of validation for the hospitality industry, which has long been a driving force in Belfast’s recovery and growth. He credits much of the area’s transformation to visionary figures like Willie Jack, who have invested in the area’s cultural development.
“Hospitality is about more than just serving pints. It’s about culture, music, atmosphere, and the people who bring a city to life,” Stewart says. “Belfast’s nightlife has come a long way, and it’s been built on the hard work of countless individuals, many of whom were honoured in this exhibition.”
But despite the success stories, Stewart warns that the industry remains fragile, facing rising costs, staffing shortages, and a lack of government support.
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