Dublin is famed for its Irish pubs and lively watering holes, but there are loads of great dining spots to pick from too. Tick off these top eateries and their signature dishes, and you’ll get a great introduction to the city’s food scene.
Here are the top cafes, restaurants and diners to eat at in Dublin…
A GASTRONOMIC ADVENTURE
Where: Dax
This Dublin restaurant is frequently touted as one of Ireland’s best. It can be found tucked away in the Georgian Quarter and offers a combination of Southern French and Irish fare. Pick the seven-course surprise tasting menu and you’ll get a mix of the restaurant’s best meat and fish dishes, like Roasted Moulard Duck and Smalls Bank Monkfish, plus two desserts to try. Dax source their wine from independent wine specialists, so you’ll get only the best vintage red and whites to accompany your meal.
A SUCCULENT STEAK
Where: Shanahan's on the Green
Popular with both locals and tourists, this eatery combines a gorgeous setting with sumptuous meals. You’ll find it located in a 250-year-old Georgian building filled with rare antiques and classic furnishing. Even though the setting is formal, the welcoming atmosphere is the opposite – you’re encouraged to feel at home. On the menu, there are hearty meat and seafood dishes, with the Irish Angus Steak as the star of the show. Shanahan’s meat specialist promises that every single steak served is the best. And, you can carry on your evening in the downstairs ‘Oval Office’ bar which features historical documents and mementos from America’s presidents of Irish heritage.
Red Route, Stop: St. Stephen's Green
shanahans.ie
AN IRISH COFFEE
Where: Bewleys Oriental Café
Bewley’s Oriental Café on Grafton Street is one of Dublin’s best tea and coffee houses. The opulent, old-school building features high ceilings, stunning Harry Clarke stained glass windows and grand chandeliers. Their signature drink is the famous Irish coffee which combines their specially-brewed filter blend coffee, cream, brown sugar and Jameson whisky. You can also take your pick from an impressive selection of coffees, teas and cocktails on the menu. Pair your drink with the café’s popular Mary Cake which is a rich chocolate mousse and flourless sponge with a fruity apricot centre.
View this post on Instagram
Red Route, Stop: College Green
bewleys.com/ie/grafton-street-cafe
A PROPER IRISH BREAKFAST
Where: O’Neills Pub and Kitchen
Dublin pubs aren’t just for Guinness guzzling, they’re great places to try some traditional Irish fare. O’Neills Pub and Kitchen, just opposite Temple Bar, is a great spot for a pint and a wholesome meal. In fact, Lonely Planet rated this place as one of the best for getting ‘real Irish food in Dublin’. All the meat, fish and vegetables are sourced from the finest Irish food producers. And on the menu, you’ll find classics like slow-roasted Irish turkey, Wicklow lamb and Guinness stew. This is also a great place to get a full Irish breakfast to start off the day – it includes an award-winning black and white pudding, maple-smoked Irish bacon and a Dublin potato cake.
Blue Route, Stop: College Green
oneillspubdublin.com
A SCOTCH EGG
Where: L. Mulligan Grocer
Scotch eggs aren’t your usual run of the mill signature dish, but L. Mulligan Grocer have become well-known for theirs. Tourists and locals regularly flock here to taste the famous starter made of pork and egg wrapped in breadcrumbs and served with a Dijon mayo dip. There’s even a non-meat version for veggies wanting to have a slice of the action. After enjoying your delicious starter, take your pick from the other top dishes at this establishment which include slow-roasted brisket, nut roast, and Dunboyne lamb braise.
Red Route, Stop: Smithfield Square
lmulligangrocer1.weebly.com
Ready to dine your way around Dublin? Head to these top Dublin restaurants and cafés and you’ll enjoy real Irish cuisine, traditional cakes, and fine dining delicacies. Start planning your foodie holiday to Ireland today.
