@WhereinDublinIf you’re planning a trip to Dublin or just curious about where to get the best food in Ireland’s capital, you’re in for a real treat. Dublin isn’t just about pubs and pints (though, yes, you’ll find plenty of that too). This city is a lively mix of flavors, from cozy cafes and hearty Irish comfort food to creative fine dining and trendy street eats.
From my own personal experience, Dublin’s food scene feels like a big warm hug with a dash of surprise, no matter where you go, there’s always something that makes you smile or raise an eyebrow in the best way. Let’s jump into the best places to eat in Dublin, from traditional Irish plates to international bites that show how diverse this city has become.
For The Classic Irish Experience
1. The Woollen Mills
Right beside the Ha’penny Bridge, The Woollen Mills is a Dublin staple. It’s known for hearty Irish dishes served with a modern twist. You can dig into slow-cooked lamb, creamy seafood chowder, or a full Irish breakfast that’ll set you up for the day.
The charm of this spot is its mix of old Dublin character and stylish vibes. You’ll see locals having long brunches, tourists snapping photos, and everyone leaving satisfied.
2. Gallagher’s Boxty House
Located in Temple Bar, Gallagher’s Boxty House celebrates the humble Irish potato in all its glory. Their boxty pancakes (a mix between a potato pancake and crepe) come stuffed with fillings like beef, chicken, or salmon.
It’s homely, affordable, and gives you a real taste of Irish tradition, with service that feels genuinely friendly.
3. The Church Café, Late Bar & Restaurant
Yes, you’re actually eating inside a converted 18th-century church. The Church is a must-visit not just for its atmosphere, but also for the food. You’ll find everything from Irish stew to seafood linguine, plus a great cocktail menu.
It’s a fantastic spot to mix sightseeing and dining, you get history, architecture, and great grub all at once.
Hidden Gems Loved by Locals
4. Brother Hubbard
If brunch is your thing, this one’s a gem. Brother Hubbard focuses on Middle Eastern-inspired dishes with fresh Irish ingredients. Expect dishes like spiced lamb flatbreads, avocado toast with harissa, and fluffy pancakes.
The coffee is top-notch too, locals swear by it.
5. Bunsen
Sometimes, all you want is a burger done right. Bunsen doesn’t mess around. There’s no fancy toppings or endless options, just perfectly cooked patties, fresh buns, and killer fries.
They’ve nailed the formula so well that you’ll probably crave another before you even finish your first one.
6. 777
Craving Mexican? Head to 777, tucked away on South Great George’s Street. It’s got that lively, neon-lit vibe and serves some of the best tacos and tequila in the city.
Their “Taco Tuesdays” are a big deal, €3 tacos all night long.
Where Food Meets Finesse
7. Chapter One
Chapter One is fine dining done with grace. It’s an award-winning Michelin-star restaurant that focuses on seasonal Irish produce. The experience is refined but not stuffy, think slow-cooked venison, inventive tasting menus, and beautiful plating.
If you want to celebrate something special, this is the place.
8. Patrick Guilbaud
Ireland’s only two-Michelin-star restaurant, Patrick Guilbaud is the epitome of elegance. It’s located right beside the Merrion Hotel and serves French-influenced cuisine that feels like art.
This isn’t a casual meal — it’s an experience. If you’re a foodie, you’ll appreciate every bite.
Dublin’s Best Cafes
9. Beanhive Coffee
Right near St. Stephen’s Green, Beanhive is a cozy spot known for creative latte art and strong coffee. They even draw designs on your foam — from shamrocks to funny faces.
Their breakfast sandwiches and homemade pastries are simple but always hit the spot.
10. Two Pups Coffee
This laid-back café on Francis Street serves up serious coffee and hearty breakfasts. Their avocado toast is legendary, and they’ve got vegan and vegetarian options that don’t feel like afterthoughts.
It’s also a great place to chill, read, or people-watch.
11. Meet Me in the Morning
This small café focuses on simple, honest food. The menu changes often but always highlights local ingredients. Expect things like poached eggs with beetroot relish or warm banana bread with butter.
It’s one of those places that instantly makes you feel at home.
Pubs with Seriously Good Food
12. The Brazen Head
Claimed to be Ireland’s oldest pub, The Brazen Head dates back to 1198. It’s full of history, but what keeps people coming back is the atmosphere and the food.
Think beef and Guinness stew, fish and chips, and traditional Irish music playing in the background. It’s touristy, sure, but still worth every bite.
13. O’Donoghue’s Bar
This spot is a favorite for live Irish music, but their food deserves attention too. The menu has classic bar bites like soup, toasties, and pies — simple, satisfying, and always fresh.
Grab a pint of Guinness and settle in; you’ll probably stay longer than planned.
14. The Porterhouse Temple Bar
Famous for brewing its own beer, The Porterhouse also serves some of the best pub grub in Dublin. Their steak sandwiches and beer-battered fish are crowd-pleasers, and their craft beer selection is unmatched.
It’s a lively, easy-going spot perfect for a casual night out.
Global Flavors in the City
15. Hang Dai Chinese
This is not your average Chinese restaurant. Hang Dai mixes bold Chinese dishes with a funky, music-bar vibe. Their roast duck is famous, and the place comes alive at night with great tunes and cocktails.
It’s ideal if you want dinner to feel more like a party.
16. Kinara Kitchen
For a hit of Pakistani and North Indian flavors, Kinara Kitchen is top-tier. The food is aromatic, rich, and perfectly spiced. Their lamb karahi and garlic naan are must-tries.
Plus, the staff always make you feel welcome — that’s part of why it’s so popular.
17. Umi Falafel
If you’re vegetarian or vegan, Umi Falafel is a gem. Their falafel wraps are crunchy, flavorful, and filling. Pair it with their lentil soup or hummus plate for a full, healthy meal.
Quick, affordable, and consistently good — what’s not to love?
Seafood Lovers’ Paradise
18. Klaw
Dublin is a coastal city, so fresh seafood is everywhere. Klaw is a small seafood shack that serves oysters, lobster rolls, crab claws, and fish tacos.
It feels casual but the flavors are seriously high-quality — think buttery, garlicky goodness in every bite.
19. Matt The Thresher
If you prefer something more refined, Matt The Thresher offers fresh Irish seafood in a bright, stylish setting. Their mussels, scallops, and fish pie are excellent, and their wine list complements every dish beautifully.
You can tell the seafood is fresh — it tastes like the ocean, in the best way.
For the Sweet Tooth
20. Murphy’s Ice Cream
Forget the typical vanilla or chocolate — Murphy’s serves wild flavors like Dingle Sea Salt, Irish Brown Bread, and Caramelized Brown Sugar. Everything is handmade with Irish dairy.
A scoop or two here is basically a Dublin tradition at this point.
21. Queen of Tarts
This little café-bakery serves the kind of desserts that make you pause mid-bite. Their scones, cheesecakes, and chocolate fudge cake are legendary.
It’s a cozy stop for tea and something sweet after exploring the city.
22. The Rolling Donut
For something fun and sugary, grab a donut from The Rolling Donut. They’ve got everything from simple glazed to stuffed Nutella or salted caramel donuts.
Perfect for a quick treat on the go.
Budget-Friendly Eats
23. Tolteca
If you’re on a budget but don’t want to compromise on taste, Tolteca has burritos, bowls, and tacos that are fresh, flavorful, and filling. Think of it as Dublin’s answer to Chipotle, but better.
It’s fast, cheap, and delicious.
24. The Eatery
This hidden lunch spot serves hearty Irish meals at affordable prices. Their daily specials — usually stews, soups, and sandwiches — are comforting and generous.
Locals love it for the friendly service and big portions.
25. BóBós Burgers
Another great burger joint, BóBós is known for creative toppings and juicy patties. You can get anything from a classic cheeseburger to one loaded with bacon, onion rings, and blue cheese.
It’s casual, quick, and consistently tasty.
Night Bites and Late Dining
26. Zaytoon
After a night out, nothing hits like Zaytoon’s kebabs. Open late, this Persian-style eatery serves grilled meats, fresh bread, and garlic sauce that’s downright addictive.
Locals swear it’s the best post-pub food in the city.
27. Leo Burdock’s
You can’t talk about Dublin food without mentioning Leo Burdock’s — the city’s most famous fish and chips shop. Crispy batter, flaky fish, and thick-cut chips make it the perfect comfort food.
It’s been around since 1913, and once you try it, you’ll see why.
Final Thoughts
Dublin’s food scene is warm, vibrant, and full of surprises. Whether you’re craving traditional Irish comfort food or something international, the city never disappoints. There’s heart in every meal here — and that’s what makes dining in Dublin so memorable.
Based on my overall experience, Dublin’s charm lies not just in what you eat but where and how you eat it — the cozy pubs, friendly banter, and the feeling that every table has a story.
So next time you’re in Dublin, skip the chain restaurants and explore. Try the local spots, chat with the staff, and taste your way through the city — one bite at a time.
