Why Halt Café Is Our Weekly Ritual

A weekly coffee meeting with the person you love is extremely reassuring, it provides a focused time each week to share stories, contemplate, and simply be present with one another. Last weekend, we went to Halt Café on Beersbridge Road in East Belfast for our regular catch-up, and it did not disappoint.

Halt's warm and inviting atmosphere set the tone for our time together from the moment we walked in. This charming café has quickly become a local favourite, recognised for its dedication to great coffee, delicious brunch items, and laid-back atmosphere, the type of place that seems like an enjoyable break in an otherwise stressful week.

I couldn't wait to try one of their speciality drinks, this time an iced honeycomb latte. It was as rich and creamy as I had hoped, with the slight sweetness of honeycomb well balanced by the smooth espresso. The glass was beautifully presented and immediately elevated my mood, making it the ideal companion as we settled in and began to discuss the highlights (and lowlights) of our weeks. My partner chose a classic flat white, which he described as strong and well-balanced, ideal for a peaceful chat.

We hadn't planned on having a full breakfast, our original objective was just coffee, but the food selection was too tempting to pass up. Halt's reputation for inventive variations on traditional brunch items makes it difficult to leave without indulging, and we were both intrigued by the possibilities available.

I ended up going with the pancakes with maple syrup, ice cream, and sesame seeds, which were a touch indulgent, enjoyable, and incredibly amazing. The pancakes were light and fluffy, with just the right sweetness from the maple syrup, and the ice cream melted slowly into each layer, giving that dreamy brunch experience you always crave. The sesame seeds offered an unexpected, wonderful texture to each bite, making it even more pleasant.

Meanwhile, my partner chose the breakfast fry, a hefty plate with all the basic features done with care and a modern twist. Every component was perfectly cooked, beautifully presented, and full of flavour just the kind of plate you want on a leisurely weekend morning that extends into early afternoon conversation.

What makes our monthly visits to Halt genuinely exceptional, however, is not simply the quality of the food and coffee, but also the environment and the way it fosters connection. The décor is warm, the service is calm, and the staff is kind, making you want to linger over your final sip. It's the type of environment where time feels softer and slower, allowing you to be fully present with the person you're with.

By the time we left, full of food and grounded in discussion, the rest of the world seemed a bit quieter, and our week a little clearer. If you're in East Belfast and searching for a café that serves wonderful coffee, thoughtful brunch dishes, and has a warm atmosphere.

 Halt is definitely worth a visit.