The Cavern: A New Private Dining Experience in Belfast


The high-end dining scene is enriched by a new, exclusive experience with the opening of The Cavern, the Grand Central Hotel Belfast’s private dining space.

This project represents a significant investment by Hastings Hotels and is set to redefine the art of intimate, luxury hospitality in Northern Ireland. Under the direction of renowned Executive Head Chef Damian Tumilty, The Cavern promises an unprecedented gastronomic offering in an intimate and sophisticated setting designed to accommodate small groups of up to 12 guests.

Located on the first floor of the Grand Central Hotel, The Cavern is hidden behind a grand sliding panel adorned with artwork, contributing to a sense of mystery and privacy. The space has been meticulously designed using luxurious materials, layered textures, and a lighting scheme crafted to create a warm, enveloping, and slightly moody atmosphere—ideal for intimate dinners and special moments. The result is an elegant environment suited for all kinds of occasions, from private celebrations to business meetings and exclusive dinners. The goal is to provide a setting where food and conversation take center stage, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and traditional dining rooms.

At the helm of The Cavern’s kitchen is Damian Tumilty, Executive Head Chef of the Grand Central Hotel, who boasts extensive experience and a well-established reputation in the Irish culinary scene. According to Tumilty, food plays a fundamental role in travelers’ destination choices, and The Cavern aims to elevate private dining in Belfast to unprecedented levels of excellence.

The gastronomic offering is based on bespoke seven-course tasting menus, created in collaboration with guests to meet their specific needs and preferences. The chef exclusively selects the highest quality local products, featuring prized ingredients such as Kingsbury Wagyu beef, Carlingford oysters, turbot caviar, and Ballycastle lobsters. This approach highlights the local territory and offers authentic, refined flavors capable of delighting even the most discerning palates. Moreover, The Cavern provides a unique opportunity for the hotel’s pastry team to showcase innovative and sophisticated creations rarely seen in the Irish culinary context, further enriching the overall experience.

The opening of The Cavern reflects an investment that emphasizes high-end experiences and personalized service. This project perfectly aligns with Hastings Hotels’ strategy to strengthen its position in the luxury hospitality sector by offering innovative, tailor-made proposals for an increasingly demanding clientele.

Jake McHugh, General Manager of the Grand Central Hotel, highlighted how The Cavern represents a new frontier in hospitality in Northern Ireland, offering an exclusive environment and 5-star service for small groups. This venue is set to become a sought-after destination not only for those wishing to celebrate special events but also for those seeking an elegant and private setting for business dinners or exclusive private gatherings.

One of The Cavern’s distinctive features is its ability to combine a secluded environment with luxurious design and a top-tier gastronomic offering. The venue is designed to provide an engaging and complete experience where every detail helps create a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere. The carefully crafted lighting and premium materials used in the furnishings contribute to an intimate environment that encourages conversation and conviviality, ideal for small groups wanting to enjoy an exclusive, personalized experience. The goal is to transform every dinner into a special occasion, where the pleasure of the table merges with the magic of a uniquely curated environment.

With the opening of The Cavern, the Grand Central Hotel marks an important step forward in the luxury dining landscape in Northern Ireland. Thanks to significant investment, outstanding design, and a refined culinary offering led by Executive Head Chef Damian Tumilty, The Cavern positions itself as a must-visit destination for those seeking an exclusive, bespoke private dining experience.

Whether it’s a private celebration, a business dinner, or an intimate gathering among friends or colleagues, The Cavern offers a unique setting where privacy, elegance, and culinary excellence combine to create unforgettable moments. This new space perfectly reflects Hastings Hotels’ vision of focusing on innovation and personalization, confirming the Grand Central Hotel as one of the most prestigious and innovative venues for high-end dining in Belfast.

Don’t miss news, updates, and reviews on the world of cruising on Cruising Journal, with photos, videos, and offers.

Giorgia Lombardo

Comments