We always try to book one of the snugs for our visits; snug number six remains our preference. Once you shut the door and press the wall-mounted bell for another round, the city's clamor recedes. We often note that Belfast pours a slightly creamier pint than Dublin, which for us, makes all the difference.
Afterward, cross the road to The Merchant Hotel for a coffee in the Great Room, beneath its grand dome. These two establishments, separated by a mere half-mile, showcase the city's architectural confidence.