Dublin, the capital of Ireland, is renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. Beyond its famous landmarks and lush green landscapes, Dublin boasts a dynamic culinary scene that caters to food enthusiasts from all walks of life.
From traditional Irish fare to innovative contemporary cuisine, Dublin offers a delightful array of gastronomic experiences. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the top food spots in Dublin, each with its own unique charm and flavor.
1. The Woollen Mills: A Taste of Dublin’s Heritage
Location and How to Get There
The Woollen Mills is conveniently located on Ormond Quay, just a short walk from the iconic Ha’penny Bridge. This central location makes it easily accessible by foot from most parts of the city center.
- By Bus: Numerous buses stop at Ormond Quay, including routes 46A, 123, and 145.
- By Luas: The closest Luas stop is Jervis, a 5-minute walk away.
Ticket Prices and Discounts
- Average Meal Price: Main courses range from €12 to €25.
- Discounts: Keep an eye out for lunchtime specials and early bird menus.
Personal Experience and Recommendations
The Woollen Mills is not just a restaurant but a piece of Dublin’s history. The building, once a working textile factory, has been beautifully restored to create a welcoming dining space with stunning views over the River Liffey. The menu here is a celebration of Irish produce, with dishes like the beef and Guinness stew and the fish pie showcasing local flavors.
Recommendation: Try the Irish smoked salmon with potato cakes and poached eggs for a perfect brunch experience. The outdoor terrace is ideal for a sunny day.
Booking and Information: Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend brunch.
2. Chapter One: Michelin-Star Excellence
Location and How to Get There
Chapter One is located at 18-19 Parnell Square North, in the basement of the Dublin Writers Museum. It’s a short walk from the city center and easily reachable by public transport.
- By Bus: Many buses, including routes 7, 11, and 16, stop near Parnell Square.
- By Luas: The closest Luas stop is Abbey Street, about a 10-minute walk away.
Ticket Prices and Discounts
- Average Meal Price: Tasting menus start at €90 per person.
- Discounts: Chapter One occasionally offers special menus for events and holidays.
Personal Experience and Recommendations
Dining at Chapter One is an experience of refined elegance. With a Michelin star to its name, the restaurant offers a sophisticated menu that combines traditional Irish ingredients with contemporary techniques. The ambiance is both intimate and luxurious, perfect for a special occasion.
Recommendation: Opt for the tasting menu to experience the full range of culinary artistry. Each course is thoughtfully paired with wines that enhance the flavors of the dishes.
Booking and Information: Due to its popularity, advance reservations are essential.
3. The Temple Bar Food Market: A Vibrant Culinary Hub
Location and How to Get There
The Temple Bar Food Market is situated in Meeting House Square, in the heart of the bustling Temple Bar district. This area is a major tourist hub and easily accessible by all means of transport.
- By Bus: Buses 16, 49, and 68 stop nearby.
- By Luas: The closest Luas stop is Jervis, about a 7-minute walk away.
Ticket Prices and Discounts
- Entry Fee: Free entry to the market.
- Food Prices: Individual stall prices vary; expect to spend around €5-€15 per dish.
Personal Experience and Recommendations
The Temple Bar Food Market is a lively and colorful marketplace that operates every Saturday. It’s a haven for food lovers, offering everything from artisan cheeses and freshly baked breads to exotic street food. The market’s vibrant atmosphere and the wide variety of high-quality produce make it a must-visit.
Recommendation: Don’t miss the oyster stall, where you can enjoy freshly shucked oysters with a splash of lemon or a dash of hot sauce. Pair it with a glass of bubbly for the ultimate treat.
Booking and Information: No booking is necessary.
4. Fish Shack Café: Fresh Seafood in a Casual Setting
Location and How to Get There
Fish Shack Café has several locations in Dublin, with the most popular one located at 5 Queen Street, near Smithfield Square. It’s easily accessible from the city center.
- By Bus: Buses 37, 39, and 70 stop at Smithfield.
- By Luas: The closest Luas stop is Smithfield, just a 2-minute walk away.
Ticket Prices and Discounts
- Average Meal Price: Main courses range from €10 to €20.
- Discounts: Check their website for occasional promotions and loyalty discounts.
Personal Experience and Recommendations
Fish Shack Café offers a relaxed and unpretentious dining experience with some of the freshest seafood in Dublin. The menu features a range of dishes, from classic fish and chips to seafood chowder and calamari. The casual atmosphere and friendly service make it a great spot for a laid-back meal.
Recommendation: The fish tacos are a standout, bursting with flavor and perfectly cooked. Pair them with a local craft beer for a satisfying meal.
Booking and Information: Reservations are not typically required.
5. The Fumbally: A Hub for Creative Cuisine
Location and How to Get There
The Fumbally is located at Fumbally Lane, Dublin 8, near the historic St. Patrick’s Cathedral. It’s a bit off the beaten path but well worth the visit.
- By Bus: Buses 9, 16, and 49 stop nearby.
- By Luas: The closest Luas stop is St. Stephen’s Green, about a 15-minute walk away.
Ticket Prices and Discounts
- Average Meal Price: Main courses range from €8 to €15.
- Discounts: Look out for daily specials and seasonal menus.
Personal Experience and Recommendations
The Fumbally is a beloved Dublin café known for its creative and wholesome dishes. The café has a laid-back, community-focused vibe, with a menu that emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The open kitchen and communal tables create a welcoming atmosphere.
Recommendation: The Fumbally Eggs are a must-try, featuring eggs cooked in butter with garlic, greens, and avocado on sourdough toast. Pair it with one of their freshly pressed juices.
Booking and Information: No reservations needed.
6. 3fe Coffee: For the Perfect Brew
Location and How to Get There
3fe Coffee is located at 32 Grand Canal Street Lower, Dublin 2. This coffee haven is easily accessible from the city center.
- By Bus: Buses 1, 47, and 56A stop nearby.
- By DART: The closest DART station is Grand Canal Dock, about a 5-minute walk away.
Ticket Prices and Discounts
- Average Coffee Price: €3 to €5.
- Discounts: Loyalty cards are available for regular customers.
Personal Experience and Recommendations
3fe Coffee is a haven for coffee enthusiasts. Known for their precision and passion for coffee, 3fe offers a range of expertly brewed beverages in a modern and welcoming setting. The baristas are highly knowledgeable and happy to recommend a brew based on your preferences.
Recommendation: Try the flat white, perfectly balanced and creamy. Pair it with one of their delicious pastries for a complete experience.
Booking and Information: No reservations needed.
7. Brother Hubbard: Middle Eastern Flavors with a Twist
Location and How to Get There
Brother Hubbard has two locations: North at 153 Capel Street and South at 46 Harrington Street. Both are accessible from the city center.
- By Bus: Numerous buses serve both locations, including routes 9, 16, and 140.
- By Luas: The closest Luas stop to the north location is Jervis, while Harcourt is nearest to the south location.
Ticket Prices and Discounts
- Average Meal Price: Main courses range from €10 to €18.
- Discounts: Early bird menus and lunchtime specials are available.
Personal Experience and Recommendations
Brother Hubbard offers a refreshing take on Middle Eastern cuisine with a menu full of vibrant, flavorful dishes. The décor is cozy and modern, with a welcoming atmosphere that invites you to relax and enjoy.
Recommendation: The Turkish eggs menemen is a standout dish, bursting with flavor and perfectly spiced. Pair it with their house-made lemonade for a refreshing meal.
Booking and Information: Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.
8. FX Buckley: The Ultimate Steakhouse Experience
Location and How to Get There
FX Buckley has several locations in Dublin, with the most famous one at 2 Crow Street, Temple Bar. Its central location makes it easily accessible.
- By Bus: Numerous buses stop in Temple Bar, including routes 16, 27, and 49.
- By Luas: The closest Luas stop is Jervis, about a 7-minute walk away.
Ticket Prices and Discounts
- Average Meal Price: Main courses range from €20 to €40.
- Discounts: Set menus and early bird specials are available.
Personal Experience and Recommendations
FX Buckley is synonymous with high-quality steaks in Dublin. The restaurant’s reputation for serving the finest cuts of Irish beef, cooked to perfection, makes it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The ambiance is classic steakhouse, with a touch of old-world charm.
Recommendation: The ribeye steak, cooked medium-rare, is a carnivore’s dream. Pair it with a glass of robust red wine from their extensive list.
Booking and Information: Reservations are highly recommended.
9. The Greenhouse: A Culinary Masterpiece
Location and How to Get There
The Greenhouse is located at 21 Dawson Street, Dublin 2, near St. Stephen’s Green. It’s easily accessible from the city center.
- By Bus: Numerous buses stop on Dawson Street, including routes 11, 39A, and 46A.
- By Luas: The closest Luas stop is St. Stephen’s Green, a 3-minute walk away.
Ticket Prices and Discounts
- Average Meal Price: Tasting menus start at €95 per person.
- Discounts: Occasionally, special event menus offer a different pricing structure.
Personal Experience and Recommendations
The Greenhouse is a Michelin-starred restaurant that delivers an exceptional dining experience. Chef Mickael Viljanen’s innovative approach to Irish ingredients results in beautifully crafted dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. The intimate setting and impeccable service enhance the overall experience.
Recommendation: The tasting menu is a journey through the chef’s culinary vision. Each course is a masterpiece, perfectly paired with wines that complement the flavors.
Booking and Information: Advance reservations are essential.
10. The Old Spot: Gastro Pub at Its Best
Location and How to Get There
The Old Spot is located at 14 Bath Avenue, Dublin 4, near the Aviva Stadium. It’s easily accessible by public transport.
- By Bus: Buses 1 and 47 stop nearby.
- By DART: The closest DART station is Lansdowne Road, about a 5-minute walk away.
Ticket Prices and Discounts
- Average Meal Price: Main courses range from €15 to €25.
- Discounts: Early bird menus and daily specials are available.
Personal Experience and Recommendations
The Old Spot is a charming gastro pub that offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere along with a menu of hearty, delicious dishes. The pub’s emphasis on high-quality ingredients and traditional Irish cooking with a modern twist makes it a standout.
Recommendation: The lamb shank is tender and flavorful, served with creamy mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables. Pair it with a pint of locally brewed Guinness for the perfect meal.
Booking and Information: Reservations are recommended, especially on match days.
11. The Winding Stair: A Literary and Culinary Gem
Location and How to Get There
The Winding Stair is located at 40 Lower Ormond Quay, Dublin 1, near the Ha’penny Bridge. Its central location makes it easily accessible.
- By Bus: Numerous buses stop on the nearby quays, including routes 145, 46A, and 123.
- By Luas: The closest Luas stop is Jervis, about a 5-minute walk away.
Ticket Prices and Discounts
- Average Meal Price: Main courses range from €18 to €30.
- Discounts: Early bird menus and pre-theatre specials are available.
Personal Experience and Recommendations
The Winding Stair combines a love of literature and food in a delightful riverside setting. Named after the famous W.B. Yeats poem, the restaurant is housed above a bookstore, offering stunning views of the River Liffey. The menu focuses on Irish cuisine, with a commitment to using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients.
Recommendation: The Irish beef and Guinness pie is a hearty, flavorful dish that encapsulates the essence of traditional Irish cooking. Pair it with a glass of red wine for a perfect dining experience.
Booking and Information: Reservations are recommended, particularly for dinner.
12. Fade Street Social: A Hub of Culinary Creativity
Location and How to Get There
Fade Street Social is located at 4-6 Fade Street, Dublin 2, in the heart of the city’s creative quarter. It’s easily accessible from all parts of the city center.
- By Bus: Numerous buses stop nearby, including routes 16, 140, and 123.
- By Luas: The closest Luas stop is St. Stephen’s Green, about a 7-minute walk away.
Ticket Prices and Discounts
- Average Meal Price: Main courses range from €18 to €30.
- Discounts: Early bird menus and group dining packages are available.
Personal Experience and Recommendations
Fade Street Social, created by renowned chef Dylan McGrath, offers a variety of dining experiences under one roof. From the lively tapas bar to the more formal restaurant and rooftop garden, there’s something to suit every taste. The focus is on high-quality ingredients, creative dishes, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Recommendation: The tapas bar is perfect for sharing small plates with friends. The truffle fries and pork belly are standout dishes that shouldn’t be missed.
Booking and Information: Reservations are recommended, especially for large groups.