The Bullitt is the hotel that changed what people expected from Belfast accommodation. The design is deliberate and consistent, not trying to mimic anywhere else, but working with a specific aesthetic idea and following it through. The bar is well-stocked and popular with non-guests, and the rooftop terrace pulls a crowd on warm evenings.
What makes the Bullitt worth knowing about beyond accommodation is that it's actually part of the city's social fabric. The bar operates as a standalone destination and the rooftop is one of the better places to spend a summer evening in the centre. The food offering is solid without being the reason to come.
If you're in Belfast and want a drink somewhere that looks good and has a decent atmosphere without the pretension of the Merchant, this is where you go. It earns its place on the city's nightlife circuit.