Nods for three NI bars in Observer’s Food Monthly Awards

The Guardian’s Observer Food Monthly Awards have recognised three pubs in Northern Ireland as among the ‘Best Places to Drink in the UK’.

With a cocktail bar in Dorest taking top spot, the Dundrum Inn, Sunflower and The American Bar were ranked as runners-up

Of the The Dundrum Inn, the paper said: “This pub has two mottos for its approach – ‘great drinks, great people’ and ‘cold beer, warm welcome’ – making it as popular with tourists visiting the Mourne Mountains, as locals looking for a casual pint.”

Of Pedro Donald’s quirky Sunflower Bar on Belfast’s Union Street, it said: “Even on a winter’s day, you’ll find punters in the popular beer garden at Sunflower, perhaps enjoying a woodfired pizza with their pint, or browsing at the monthly flea market. Inside, there’s live music every night, from jazz to folk and open mic.”

And of popular docks venue The American, it said: “The pub dates back to 1860, but now instead of dockers you’re more likely to find people listening to the varied programme of live music, seeing a theatre show, or enjoying a locally made brew.”