The Foundry bar and hotel creates 40 jobs in city

Belfast’s vibrant Cathedral Quarter has welcomed it latest hospitality business.

The Foundry, at 10-16 Hill Street, on the site of the original Harp Bar, takes its named from Foundry Street – the former name of the location – and hopes to usher in a new era of hospitality.

It features a 350-capacity bar and restaurant, and 20 boutique hotel rooms spread across two floors and the opening, which creates 40 jobs, follows a significant investment by the Ducales Group.

The venue boasts uniquely designed rooms, a refined bar with hand-crafted cocktails, and a gourmet restaurant featuring a tantalising array of local and international dishes.

The Ducales Group enlisted Gordon Devenney, principal of O’Donnell O’Neill Design’s Belfast studios, to craft the building’s interiors, and they also collaborated with renowned commercial street artist Visual Waste.

Gordon Devenney said: “We aimed to create something truly unique for the Cathedral Quarter, blending its rich history with a modern yet timeless design.

“Seeing this vision materialise has been incredibly rewarding. We believe The Foundry can stand out as a distinctive venue in Belfast, unlike any other.”

Jim Crawford-Smyth, general manager of The Foundry, added: “After months of meticulous planning, we are thrilled to finally open our doors, and we can’t wait to change the game in the Cathedral Quarter’s hospitality scene.

“The Foundry is not just about reinventing this historic site; it’s about challenging traditional boutique hotel concepts and capturing the vibrant social energy of Belfast’s city centre. We aim to offer a sophisticated yet relaxed hangout space with exceptional food and drinks, setting a new standard for hospitality in the area.”

The Foundry will be managed by renowned third-party operator RBH Hospitality Management.

Its chief executive David Hart said: “This unique hotel represents an exciting addition to our portfolio and we are eager to embrace the opportunities this distinctive boutique property offers and look forward to making it a vibrant part of the city’s hospitality scene.

“Our continued collaboration with Ducales Capital is key to our success, and we are excited to work together once again to maximise the hotel’s potential.”