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The Grand Central Hotel has defended the price of pints at its new 23rd floor Observatory bar.

There was speculation in June that the cost of a lager at the new establishment could reach the dizzying price of £9.

Now the sky-high bar has finally opened its doors at the Bedford Street hotel, weekend news reports revealed that a pint will set you back £8, making it the most expensive on the island of Ireland.

General manager Stephen Meldrum has outlined a number of reasons for the cost of a libation at Belfast's newest bar.

He said the unique saloon offers "breathtaking views" of Belfast and that both £8 beers are "exclusive" to them.

"The Observatory only opened last week and we've had fantastic feedback from guests who have said they enjoyed a truly memorable experience," he explained.

"We believe the Grand Central Hotel has something for all budgets including the stunning Seahorse Bar and Lounge and Grand Cafe, both of which have lower price-points than the Observatory, and serve a superb array of drinks in stunning settings.

(Image: Justin Kernoghan)

"We are inviting people to pay a visit and see Belfast as they've never seen it before whilst enjoying our range of fine wines, exquisite cocktails and premium spirits and beers."

The cheapest bottle of vino available at the exclusive liquor lounge will set you back £45, with prices going right up to £245. Its pretty cocktails start at £14, while a Jaw Box gin will cost you £9, before you even pick your tonic.

The drinks might be expensive, but the Observatory provides a view of Belfast like no other.

Meldrum added: "The Observatory is located on the hotel's 23 floor and offers guests a unique experience with breathtaking views over Belfast and the surrounding countryside.

"There are cocktails lovingly designed and presented representing historic landmarks seen from the windows of the Observatory and we serve two beers on draft, both of which are exclusive to the Observatory, a first for the Island of Ireland, Estrella Damm Inedit, crafted by Ferran Adria – the world's most award-winning chef and the Damm Brewmasters and the second beer comes from Whitewater Brewery in Co Down where Bernard and his team have produced us an Observatory Pale Ale."

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