Best 15 Restaurants to Dine in Dublin

Whether you’d like to try elevated gastropubs, Instagram-worthy cafes, or Michelin-starred restaurants, Dublin has plentiful offerings for discerning foodies visiting the Emerald Isle. Below are the top 15 restaurants in Dublin right now:

Best for Small Bites: Fade Street Social Gastro Bar

Dylan McGrath hosts Ireland’s MasterChef, making him the country’s most popular celebrity chef. In 2013, he opened Fade Street Social, serving Irish-style tapas and main courses in a sleek and modern lounge. The ambience is simultaneously upbeat and calm, perfect for celebrations.

With a focus on fresh Irish ingredients and a dedication to local produce, this gastropub is certainly the best place to indulge in small bites with big flavors. Try the melt-in-the-mouth Irish steak or scallops served in the shell, and finish the night with an upscale twist on the classic banoffi pie.

Best for Gourmet Dining: Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud

Receiving both local and international praise, Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud is recognized as the epicenter of fine dining in Ireland. It is the only restaurant in Ireland with two Michelin stars, providing an “impeccable dining experience.” Start with King scallops or blue lobster ravioli.

Best for Old School Charm: Fire Restaurant

Established in the historical Mansion House, FIRE Restaurant offers modern dining steeped in history. The dishes cleverly combine local ingredients with international flair. Signature offerings include Moroccan spiced lamb skewers and sesame crumbed monkfish scampi.

Best for Vegetarian: Vegenity

Vegenity is an innovative creation by Chef Mark Senn, designed to elevate the vegetarian experience in Dublin. Offering flavorful dishes like bibimbap with pickled broccoli and braised black beans, the casual eatery is perfect for brunch and dinner from Thursday to Sunday.

Best for Breakfast: Póg

Póg specializes in low-calorie options that are indulgent yet healthy. Enjoy vegan waffles, poached eggs with polenta, or their well-made sugar-free pancakes to kickstart your day. Pair your meal with freshly squeezed juice or a delightful raspberry Bellini.

Best for Families: The Woollen Mills

Overlooking the Ha’Penny Bridge, The Woollen Mills serves a diverse menu including a seven-course seafood option, making it a great spot for families. With ample seating and a kid-friendly atmosphere, it ensures a pleasant dining experience for all ages.

Best for Irish Angus Steaks: Shanahan’s

Nestled in a historic building, Shanahan’s On the Green offers authentic Irish Angus steaks paired with an elegant dining atmosphere. Feast on expertly prepared sides like creamed spinach and signature onion rings alongside your steak.

Best for Sushi: Taste at Rustic

From the celebrated chef Dylan McGrath comes Taste at Rustic, highlighted by its exceptional sushi and complete Japanese menu. Don’t miss the local seafood Nigiri, which is prepared fresh to order.

Best for a Date Night: The Green Hen

With a cozy atmosphere, The Green Hen is ideal for romantic dinners. Featuring vintage French cinema décor, it boasts a menu filled with delectable options like goat cheese salad and mouthwatering duck breast.

Best for Seafood: Matt the Thresher

For an authentic seafood experience, visit Matt the Thresher, known for its excellent variety of fish and shellfish. The modern eatery allows you to indulge in oysters, crab, and a catch of the day prepared simply yet expertly.

Best for Artistic Fine Dining: Chapter One

Perfect for small groups, Chapter One offers a pre-theatre menu featuring high-end dining. With standout dishes like duck with blood orange and the famous Irish coffee, this venue is a must-visit for culinary aficionados.

Best for Irish Stew: Hatch & Sons Irish Kitchen

At Hatch & Sons, you can savor authentic Irish beverages and dishes made with the freshest ingredients. Enjoy traditional Irish beef stew or a ham and cheese sandwich made with locally sourced ingredients.

Best for Pizza: Da Mimmo

This family-run restaurant has quickly become a staple in Dublin since its inception in 2010. Da Mimmo focuses on fresh ingredients and authentic Italian fare, offering delicious wood-fired pizzas that visitors rave about.

Best Crowd Pleaser: Fallon & Byrne

Part market and part restaurant, Fallon & Byrne features a delightful mix of dining experiences right in the heart of Dublin. Choose from a gourmet meal, casual bites, or shop for unique food items, making it entertaining for all types of visitors.

Best for French-inspired Fusion: Pichet

Headed by chef Stephen Gibson, Pichet offers a unique dining experience focused on French cuisine with a local twist. The menu features seasonal ingredients to create dishes that celebrate Irish culture in a chic atmosphere.