Ireland’s capital is more than its pubs and pints, though a walk down any street in Dublin might suggest otherwise. The real flavors of Dublin come alive in local kitchens, street stalls and neighborhood favorites pushing the city’s food scene forward. Michelin-starred restaurants, spice bag takeaways, boxty houses and rooftop bars show how the city’s food scene grows with every plate served. I ate my way across Dublin, and I’ve got the best recommendations for any food lover!
Dublin’s food story lives in its cafés and neighborhood kitchens, where chefs turn local favorites into something unforgettable. During our visit, Matthew, my daughter and I followed the locals to these lively spots and found some of our favorite meals. Each one shows why Dublin keeps growing as one of Europe’s most exciting places to eat.
Breakfast and brunch spots that locals love
Dublin mornings call for more than just coffee. These spots serve hearty meals and fresh flavors that keep locals coming back.
Beanhive Coffee on Dawson Street
Start your food tour with Beanhive Coffee on Dawson Street. This local café serves full Irish breakfasts and colorful lattes that stand out. Its location near St. Stephen’s Green makes it easy to find and popular with locals and visitors alike.
Brother Hubbard on Capel Street
Brother Hubbard on Capel Street draws crowds with bold flavors and fresh ideas. This popular brunch spot mixes Middle Eastern spices with classic Irish plates. Its cozy atmosphere and hearty weekend brunch specials make it a favorite stop.
Temple Bar Food Market
Temple Bar Food Market turns a regular Saturday into a flavorful experience. Local bakers, farmers and cheesemakers fill the stalls with fresh goods every week. Shoppers can explore from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and taste Dublin’s local food scene.
Pubs pouring history and hearty plates
Order more than a pint when stepping inside these historic pubs. Each one serves rich history, local character and hearty plates that turn every visit into a true Dublin experience.
The Brazen Head on Bridge Street
Step into Dublin’s past at The Brazen Head on Bridge Street. This historic pub claims to be Ireland’s oldest, serving locals and visitors since 1198. Its Irish stew and soda bread remain favorites after centuries of tradition.
The Hairy Lemon on Stephen Street Lower
The Hairy Lemon on Stephen Street Lower brings lively energy to the city’s pub scene. Its menu features fish and chips alongside hearty shepherd’s pie. Fans of the film “The Commitments” will spot familiar scenes filmed inside this local favorite. Yes, it’s a tourist hotspot, but it’s also a terrific spot for an authentic Dublin pub experience.
The Long Hall on South Great George’s Street
The Long Hall on South Great George’s Street offers another true Dublin pub experience. Its rich Victorian interiors create a timeless setting. Many stop here for a properly poured Guinness and a chance to soak in the city’s history.
Dublin’s spice bag and coddle staples
Big flavors and bigger stories come together in these local favorites. From crispy spice bags to hearty coddle, these dishes highlight what keeps Dublin’s casual food scene alive.
Spice Bag at Xi’an Street Food, South Anne Street & North Earl Street
Locals line up for the spice bag at Xi’an Street Food on South Anne Street and North Earl Street. This spot piles crispy chicken and seasoned fries into a single order packed with flavor. Add curry sauce on the side for extra heat.
Pro tip: Don’t expect to get a table. Instead, order by Deliveroo or get your meal to go. It’s a busy place!
Spice Bag at The Hungry Mexican, Aston Quay
Late-night cravings lead many to The Hungry Mexican on Aston Quay. Its spice bag, loaded with crispy chicken and fries, delivers bold flavor in every bite. Locals love grabbing it after a night out in the city.
Dublin Coddle at Gallagher’s Boxty House, Temple Bar
Warm up with a bowl of Dublin coddle at Gallagher’s Boxty House in Temple Bar. This traditional stew combines sausage and potatoes in a rich broth. Served in a cozy, tourist-friendly space, it’s a comforting way to experience local flavors.
Leo Burdock’s Fish and Chips, Christchurch
Leo Burdock’s near Christchurch has served fish and chips in Dublin since 1913. Known as the city’s oldest chipper, it draws both locals and celebrities. The shop’s simple menu keeps people lining up for fresh, golden fried favorites.
Memorable spots for a Sunday supper
Slow down and make Sunday night count with a proper sit-down meal. Dublin’s restaurants deliver memorable plates that make it easy to turn any quiet night into a celebration of food and flavor.
Chapter One on Parnell Square
Chapter One on Parnell Square takes fine dining to another level. This Michelin-starred restaurant crafts seasonal tasting menus that highlight modern Irish-French cuisine, offering guests a refined experience rooted in Dublin’s evolving food culture.
Featherblade on Dawson Street
Featherblade on Dawson Street keeps things simple with steak and craft beers. Its short menu focuses on quality over quantity, served in a laid-back space. This popular spot proves that great flavor doesn’t have to come with a high price tag.
The Bank on College Green
Step into history at The Bank on College Green, a grand former bank turned restaurant and bar. Guests dine under high ceilings while enjoying classic Irish dishes and fresh seafood. The menu also features a long list of drinks, making it an ideal spot for relaxing or celebrating in one of Dublin’s most beautiful spaces. The portions here are enormous, so go hungry!
Modern flavors with a Dublin twist
Fresh ideas meet local pride in these creative kitchens. These modern restaurants bring bold flavors to the table, showing how Dublin blends new trends with the familiar tastes that locals love.
The Marker Hotel rooftop bar in the Docklands
Head to the rooftop at The Marker Hotel in the Docklands for one of the city’s best views. This modern spot serves light bites and cocktails in a sleek space perfect for soaking up Dublin’s skyline.
Pickle Restaurant on Camden Street
Pickle Restaurant on Camden Street brings bold North Indian dishes to the heart of Dublin. Known for authentic spice levels and rich flavors, this lively spot keeps locals coming back for plates that bring heat, character and local energy.
Bastible on Leonard’s Corner
Bastible on Leonard’s Corner brings seasonal Irish ingredients to life with modern techniques. This Michelin-starred restaurant keeps the focus on fresh flavors. The casual space lets seasonal Irish dishes take the spotlight, keeping the experience simple and enjoyable.
Quick local tips for food lovers
Dublin’s busiest restaurants book up fast, especially on weekends. Booking early helps avoid long waits and guarantees a table when the city fills up.
Temple Bar stays loud with food stalls and nightlife that pull in crowds every night. Tipping isn’t required, but locals often leave 10% for good service.
The city runs on foot and public transport, making it easy to move between food stops. Most pubs and restaurants open by midmorning and serve until midnight or later, keeping the food scene active all day.
Wrapping up your Dublin food tour
Every corner of the city blends tradition with something new, from pubs with centuries of history to rooftop bars shaking up the scene. Classic flavors meet fresh ideas in kitchens big and small, giving visitors more than one reason to look closer. Keep this guide ready to explore the spots shaping the city’s food scene today.