While Ireland might not traditionally be the first country that comes to mind when planning a gourmet getaway, Dublin’s culinary scene is a vibrant tapestry of traditional Irish flavors, contemporary trends, and international delights. From cozy pubs serving hearty classics to trendy eateries pushing the boundaries of modern cuisine, the city offers a surprisingly diverse and incredibly satisfying array of food experiences. Contrary to common misconceptions, we ate exceptionally well in Dublin, discovering a wealth of delicious options that catered to every palate and preference.
Dublin’s Culinary Landscape: More Than Just Pub Fare
Dublin is brimming with culinary treasures waiting to be discovered. The city offers a delightful blend of authentic Irish dishes, innovative new restaurants, and comforting farm-fresh meals. You’ll find everything from British-style Indian curries and classic pub staples to an abundance of traditional chip shops and trendy fusion establishments. The food scene here is dynamic and exciting, continually evolving while proudly preserving its heritage. Our journey through Dublin’s eateries proved that this capital city truly offers something for everyone, whether you’re seeking a quick bite or a memorable dining experience.
Navigating Dublin’s Food Scene with a Young Family
Our stay in the famously lively Temple Bar area presented a unique challenge for fully experiencing Dublin’s sophisticated dining options. Traveling with very young children (ages 6 and 4) meant that the area’s typically boisterous and highly spirited atmosphere, while appealing to many tourists, was a bit overwhelming for family outings. Temple Bar is renowned for its vibrant nightlife and energetic crowds, which can be fantastic for adult travelers, but less so when accompanied by intensely exhausted little ones after a day of city exploration. Consequently, a significant portion of our meals in Dublin consisted of convenient takeout and fast-casual options.
For those visiting Dublin without children, or with older kids who can better navigate bustling environments, you’ll have greater freedom to explore the city’s exquisite farm-to-table restaurants and renowned pubs that offer both delicious food and a lively atmosphere. During a future visit, I envision booking a spacious apartment closer to the serene St. Stephen’s Green, away from the late-night revelers and within easy reach of unique, trendy eateries. Having a dedicated babysitter would also unlock opportunities to fully immerse ourselves in Dublin’s evening culinary scene. Despite these travel constraints, we were still incredibly fortunate to enjoy some truly amazing and delicious food in Dublin, often savored in the comfort of our rented apartment.
For comprehensive travel tips, explore our guide on What to Do In Dublin here!
Unforgettable Dining Experiences: Our Dublin Food Highlights
37 Dawson Street: A Chic Brunch and Seafood Sensation
Our visit to 37 Dawson Street was a delightful surprise, offering a blend of chic decor and truly exceptional food. This trendy spot delivered an experience that was both fun and refreshingly unique, steering clear of typical tourist traps. My choice, the King Prawn and Black Mussel Linguine, was nothing short of divine – perfectly fresh, with a zesty tang and a hint of spice that awakened the palate. The rest of the family indulged in their brunch menu. My husband, Luke, thoroughly enjoyed his hearty breakfast platter, while the kids were absolutely thrilled with their American Hotcakes, making it a meal that pleased everyone.
Beyond the fantastic food, the ambiance at 37 Dawson Street was a highlight. The decor was playfully quirky without being over-the-top, creating a vibrant yet comfortable setting. The plush couch seating was particularly inviting, offering a much-needed respite before we ventured out for an afternoon stroll in the sunny St. Stephen’s Green. If you’re searching for an eatery in Dublin that combines style, flavor, and a lively atmosphere without feeling overly commercialized, 37 Dawson Street is an absolute must-visit. We left wishing we could return for more, a true testament to its memorable charm and culinary excellence.
The King Prawn and Black Mussel Linguine at @37dawsonstreet was divine- incredibly fresh, tangy, a touch spicy. The rest of the family hit up the brunch menu for their meals: Luke loved his Breakfast platter, and the kids flipped for their American Hotcakes! The decor was really fun without being tacky, and the couch seating was just what we needed before heading out for some afternoon sun in St Stephens Green! If you’re in Dublin and looking for something fun and quirky, but less cheesy touristy, definitely head to 37 Dawson!!! I wish we could head back for more…. ? #sweetcs #Ireland #lovedublin #dublin #eats #food #foodie #foodgram #foodblogger #instagood #foodporn #seafood #travel #travelblogger #traveleats #wanderlust #explore #wander #discover @tourismireland @visitdublin #yum #getinmybelly
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When tea comes with a disco ball unicorn…. Loved 37 Dawson Street, one of the best meals I’ve had in Ireland! #sweetcs #trip #travel #tourism #instagood #vacation #dublin #ireland #travelblog #travelblogger #wanderlust #lovedublin #discoverireland #pretty #discoball #unicorn
A photo posted by Courtney | Food & Travel ? (@sweetcsdesigns) on
Aungier Danger Doughnuts: A Sweet Adventure (and a Minor Misadventure!)
While doughnuts might not be the first delicacy that springs to mind when contemplating Dublin’s food scene, Aungier Danger on the trendy Aungier Street is poised to change that perception entirely. This vibrant street is a culinary destination in its own right, and Aungier Danger stands out with its incredibly unique and imaginative doughnut creations. They were also famous for their legendary “Danger Cone” – a doughnut soft-serve hybrid – which, to my great disappointment, was unavailable during my visit. Despite this minor setback, the doughnuts themselves promised an unparalleled experience.
Funny enough, I should’ve taken note of the art in @aungierdanger – right after purchasing one of each doughnut they had on display (which I was delivering to my kids and husband, happily playing in St. Stephens Green) I tripped on a wobbly bit of road, flew through the air (possibly in the middle of someone’s wedding photos) and fell flat on my wrist, knee, and the box of goodies I was carrying. Luckily a few could be saved and I’m back at our apartment nursing my scrapes and very bruised ego with some of the BEST doughnuts I’ve ever had in my life. Not too sweet, tons of rich yeasty flavor, really creative toppings and fillings make Aungier Danger a huge MUST EAT for me in Dublin! (Just mind the road, people. It’ll get ya.) #sweetcs #travel #travelblogger #food #foodie #foodblogger #doughnuts #wanderlust #explore #tourism #lovedublin #dublin #discoverdublin #foodgram #aungierdanger #yum #instayun #foodgasm #? #fatgirlproblems
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Of all the places we planned to visit in Dublin, Aungier Danger was the one I anticipated most eagerly. I’d heard considerable buzz about this quirky doughnut shop on Aungier Street, an area I vowed to explore more thoroughly on a subsequent visit. With my children happily occupied at the playground in St. Stephen’s Green, I seized the opportunity to make a quick trip to Aungier Danger, planning to return with a surprise feast of doughnuts for us to enjoy amidst the park’s stately surroundings.
I left the shop with a generous box of assorted doughnuts, happily strolling back towards the park, completely oblivious to the impending “tragedy.” As fate would have it, I tripped on an uneven patch of road, soaring through the air – quite possibly in the middle of someone’s wedding photoshoot (no exaggeration, I’m certain they’re still amused by the sight of an American and her airborne doughnuts in their portrait proofs). I crashed down onto the asphalt, landing squarely on my wrist, knee, and, most regrettably, on top of the entire box of doughnuts intended for the kids. A kind photographer from the wedding party and the groom himself rushed to my aid, helping me gather my belongings scattered from my purse.
I won’t lie; I’m known for breaking phones, but surprisingly, my iPhone (which flew the furthest) was the least of my concerns. My immediate focus was entirely on these precious doughnuts. Miraculously, the phone remained unscathed! Despite the dramatic tumble, it didn’t significantly diminish our doughnut feast. After a lovely taxi driver whisked us back to our apartment and I cleaned up, we still enjoyed a surprisingly delicious selection of surviving doughnuts.
Next time I find myself in Dublin, my first destination will be Aungier Danger. I’ll be sure to wear my sturdiest shoes and order as many doughnuts as I can safely carry! These treats are truly extraordinary – not overly sweet, boasting a rich, yeasty flavor, and featuring incredibly creative toppings and fillings. They are an absolute must-try for any sweet tooth visiting Dublin.
Must try: Banoffee, Crime Scene, Double O, Jam, Dublin Death Trap.
Queen of Tarts: Dublin’s Sweet Sanctuary
While our apartment in Temple Bar didn’t quite win us over, its central location proved incredibly advantageous, especially concerning access to a plethora of delicious food spots! One morning, as we strolled towards Trinity College, we happened upon Queen of Tarts. Its charming exterior immediately caught our eye, and we vowed to return later – a decision I’m immensely grateful for. This delightful establishment is not just packed to the rafters with adorable tea memorabilia and cozy decor; it also crafts some of the most beautiful and delectable sweets and treats imaginable. I indulged in a classic Victoria Sponge, a perennial favorite of my husband’s, while my kids happily selected some colorful macarons. My cousin and I rounded out our selections with an assortment of pastries.
My dad, ever thoughtful, also picked up some macarons for my mom, which were beautifully packaged in an adorable blue box tied with red twine – a truly lovely little tea treat. I would joyfully accept any gift from Queen of Tarts; my only regret is not purchasing one of their charming mugs to take home as a souvenir. Everything about Queen of Tarts, from its welcoming ambiance to its exquisite baked goods, completely captivated me.
I’ll take one of everything, please! Treaties and tea at Queen of Tarts, Temple Bar. @queenoftartsdub #sweetcs #travel #trip #food #foodie #foodgram #foodgasm #travelblog #travelblogger #instagood #tea #dessert #bakery #dublin #ireland #visitireland #visitdublin #templebar @tourismireland @visitdublin #tipsgroup #pretty #feedfeed #forkyeah #foodandwine #foodwinewomen
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Must order: Victoria sponge, cookies, macarons, pear and chocolate torte, tea, espresso drinks, pie… essentially anything on display is bound to be delightful.
The Bakery, Temple Bar: A Hidden Gem for Morning Treats
Nestled at 8 Essex St W in the heart of Dublin’s Temple Bar, The Bakery is an unassuming spot that’s incredibly easy to miss if you’re not looking carefully. Blink, and you might walk right past this local favorite. However, doing so would be a significant oversight, especially for those seeking a quick, delicious, and authentic start to their day. This bakery boasts an ever-rotating selection of delectable treats, catering to both savory and sweet cravings. On any given morning, you might find enticing turkey and cheese stuffed croissants or rolls, savory meat pies, and a variety of doughnuts, alongside classic cookies, cakes, and bagels.
Beyond the baked goods, The Bakery also serves excellent espresso drinks, making it the perfect spot for a morning coffee run. Although I didn’t capture any photos during our early morning ventures here, its exceptional quality and the sheer deliciousness of its offerings make it a mandatory stop. It’s particularly ideal after a long night out in Temple Bar, offering comforting and satisfying sustenance. Just a crucial note for visitors: they operate on a strictly cash-only basis, so be sure to have some euros on hand.
Take note – they are strictly cash-only. Must order: meat pastries, cheese and ham croissant, muffins, bagels, doughnuts.
Leo Burdocks: The Quintessential Dublin Chippy Experience
No trip to Dublin is complete without a visit to a chippy, and Leo Burdocks holds a special place in the city’s culinary history as its oldest and most famous fish and chip shop. Chippies, or take-out fish and chip joints, are synonymous with Irish cuisine, and Leo Burdocks truly exemplifies why this tradition endures. Their enduring popularity is evident from the moment you taste their food: incredibly fresh fish encased in a perfect, crispy batter, accompanied by generously portioned, perfectly cooked chips. It’s a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Irish comfort food in Dublin.
Driven by curiosity, my cousin, husband, and I decided to venture beyond the classic fish and chips and also sampled their fried sausages and fried hamburgers. The fried sausage was an unexpected highlight – a perfectly spiced sausage enveloped in a light, flaky crust. It was the kind of satisfying, hearty snack that would expertly soak up the residual effects of even the booziest nights spent navigating Dublin’s cobblestone streets. It truly hit the spot.
The fried hamburger, however, presented a more complex culinary puzzle. I found myself torn between applauding this greasy monstrosity for its sheer audacity and shuddering at its unusual texture. It tasted somewhat like cheap dumpling meat encased in fish batter – a flavor profile I suspect one might need a few more pints of Guinness to fully appreciate and enjoy. Nonetheless, the overall experience at Leo Burdocks is quintessential Dublin, a true taste of local tradition.
Must order: Lemon sole, haddock, crispy bits (the delicious scraps of batter).
Siri Indian Restaurant (Takeout): A Flavorful Respite
Our very first night in Dublin was a blur of exhaustion. We had driven all the way from Cork, with stops at historic Cashel and Kildare, and all we craved was delicious food, quickly. Despite our absolute starvation, we were hesitant to risk disrupting our kids’ unusually good behavior at a restaurant, knowing they were completely spent. By pure chance, we decided on takeout from Siri, an Indian restaurant conveniently located just up the street from our apartment.
My husband quickly picked up our order, returning to our rented apartment with the aromatic dishes and some cider from the nearby Spar. The meal was an immediate, spectacular hit. Siri consistently serves beautifully prepared Indian food with generous portions and an abundance of rich, authentic flavors. Even as takeout, the presentation was still marvelous, and the dishes maintained their vibrant appeal. If our itinerary had allowed for another day in Dublin, we would undoubtedly have returned to Siri for at least one more meal, testament to its outstanding quality and our pure enjoyment.
Must order: garlic naan, chicken jalfrezi, lamb tikka.
Wagamama (Takeout): Comforting Japanese Fare for Weary Travelers
My initial encounter with Wagamama was in Brisbane, Australia, and since then, this fast-casual British-based Japanese spot has consistently proven itself to be a reliable, quick, and inexpensive crowd-pleaser. It might not boast the most exclusive or unique dining experience, but it was absolutely perfect after a very long day of walking Dublin’s picturesque yet unforgiving cobblestone streets. Adding to the necessity, I was recovering from my doughnut-related fall, dealing with a massively swollen and painful knee, which meant walking anywhere was a distinct challenge.
We were in urgent need of speedy delivery, and Dublin’s Deliveroo bike messenger service proved to be an absolute lifesaver. Wagamama’s delicious and affordable menu made it an ideal choice when we needed satisfying, wholesome food fast, without resorting to greasy takeout. As someone who suffers from Rheumatoid Arthritis, a significant fall like mine presents a difficult recovery, and I was genuinely upset at the thought of missing out on more uniquely Dublin restaurants. However, our Wagamama takeout was a delightful surprise – delicious, beautifully presented, and incredibly well-plated, especially considering it arrived via bike messenger in plastic tubs!
The Beef Donburi was particularly vibrant and flavorful. I loved how the crisp cabbage and fresh lettuce added bright, inviting colors and textures to the dish, making each bite a delightful experience.
The Pork Ramen was absolutely divine, featuring a beautifully salty broth complemented by an explosion of bright, fresh vegetable flavors. It was exactly the comforting meal we needed.
The Firecracker Prawn dish was not only visually gorgeous but absolutely bursting with flavor. I often find myself complaining that dishes aren’t spicy enough, but this one truly delivered on the heat, without being so overwhelmingly hot that my husband couldn’t enjoy it too!
I might have tried to surreptitiously sneak more than my fair share of the greens; I honestly could have devoured an entire giant tub of them. They were incredibly delicious!
The duck gyoza proved to be a resounding hit with everyone at the table, a perfectly crisp and savory treat that satisfied all appetites.
The Temple Bar Pub: Iconic Experience, Surprisingly Good Food
The Temple Bar area, in its entirety, is a boisterous, theatrical affair, teeming with sights and sounds at all hours of the day and night. While parts of Temple Bar can be overtly touristy, and The Temple Bar pub itself is undeniably geared towards Guinness-loving international visitors, particularly Americans, that doesn’t detract from its quality. In fact, it proved to be a surprisingly excellent dining destination for us.
The pub offered excellent sandwiches and perfectly crisp chips, alongside a superb pint of Guinness. What truly made this a standout, however, was their “fry up” – a traditional Irish breakfast that my husband still raves about to this day. The staff at The Temple Bar didn’t bat an eye when we arrived with our very young children. Although they didn’t have a specific kids’ menu, there were plenty of appealing options on the main menu that even our picky eaters were enthusiastic about. We found the atmosphere welcoming and accommodating, even for a family.
Adding to the vibrant experience, there was live music playing even in the early morning, setting a cheerful tone for the day. Despite dedicated smoking areas, they were equipped with very ample fans, ensuring that we, seated nearby, experienced zero issues with smoke. The pub’s interior is also filled with charming, kitschy memorabilia, adding to its unique character and providing plenty of visual interest.
The moment you say, “screw it, I’m a tourist and I’m embracing 10:30am Guinness for breakfast.” #sweetcs #food #foodie #Dublin #Ireland #templebar #discoverireland #pretty #wander #wanderlust #eire #tourism #tourist #trip #instayum @tourismireland @visitdublin #visitdublin
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Teeling Distillery Cafe: Unexpected Culinary Delights
My husband and I share a fondness for distillery tours; our honeymoon across Scotland involved a delightful journey from one whisky distillery to another. So, it felt a little unusual to visit an Irish distillery without indulging in a whiskey tasting. We chose to pick up some bottles at Teeling – it was a particularly warm morning, and frankly, we just weren’t in the mood for whiskey, a rare occurrence for us. However, we were absolutely ravenous.
To our pleasant surprise, Teeling boasts a super-cute cafe on-site, offering a selection of delicious, pre-made meals that genuinely taste homemade. These proved perfect for a quick bite during our tea break. Unfortunately, as was the case in several places serving traditional Irish and British fare, my options were significantly limited due to a mustard allergy. Most of Teeling’s meals are prepared in the morning for quick service throughout the day, which meant pre-made items often contained mustard.
Thankfully, they had a meat pie that was blissfully mustard-free – and incredibly delicious. It was, quite honestly, one of the tastiest steak and Guinness pies I had throughout my entire trip to Ireland. Who would have thought such a culinary gem would be found at a whiskey distillery? My family, without my dietary restrictions, thoroughly enjoyed their sandwiches, all generously slathered in mustard. This cafe was a perfect, quick stop along our self-styled tour route, providing us with ample energy to continue our exploration, including a visit to the iconic Guinness Storehouse!
The Old Storehouse: Authentic Pub Grub and Live Music
Temple Bar is indeed teeming with lively pubs, many of which serve traditional Irish fare from morning till night. However, one particular recommendation stood out from a local we spoke with: The Old Storehouse. He lauded it as his top pick for an exceptional beef and Guinness stew – a dish, looking back, we seemed to enjoy almost daily! Since my parents were kindly watching our kids at their hotel in Dublin’s financial district that evening, my cousin, my husband, and I seized the opportunity to stroll around Temple Bar. We were eager to soak in the lively atmosphere and enjoy some great pub food in a setting that was a bit louder and more boisterous than what we typically sought when our young children were in tow.
While pubs in Temple Bar generally accommodate children without issue, the sheer volume of energetic tourists, often looking to socialize and get quite boisterous, creates an environment that felt a little excessive for my six and four-year-olds. It’s a fantastic adult playground, but perhaps not the ideal setting for a quiet family dinner. At The Old Storehouse, despite the bar being quite packed, we were fortunate to get a table immediately near the band. Their lively performance was incredibly entertaining and quickly put us in the perfect mood for a night out in Temple Bar.
For our meal, all three of us unanimously ordered the Guinness and Beef Stew – what can I say, we’re absolute suckers for a good beef and stout stew! We also shared some incredibly fresh crab claws. The food arrived quickly and was absolutely delicious, embodying the rich, comforting flavors of authentic Irish pub cuisine. The people-watching was fantastic, providing endless entertainment as we listened to the super fun band. The Old Storehouse offers a truly authentic and enjoyable pub experience; I could easily spend hours here, simply drinking and catching up with friends.
Darkey Kelley’s: Gin & Tonics and Courtyard Charm
While we didn’t dine at Darkey Kelley’s, I can most certainly, and enthusiastically, vouch for their gin and tonics. To be more precise, I can wholeheartedly recommend their Gunpowder Gin and Tonic, crafted, naturally, with the exquisite Gunpowder Gin. Just to be absolutely sure of my fondness for them, I undertook some thorough “research” and tasted a few – strictly for scientific purposes, of course!
My cousin and I each enjoyed a few of these delightful concoctions, relaxing in Darkey Kelley’s fabulous outdoor courtyard. The atmosphere was remarkably relaxed and distinctly non-touristy, a refreshing change from the bustling Temple Bar area, despite being conveniently located right across from Christchurch Cathedral. They seriously served one of the best Gin and Tonics I have ever had. I highly recommend stopping in for one (or perhaps three!) to experience this hidden gem for yourself.
Planning Your Dublin Food Journey
Dublin’s culinary scene is rich and varied, promising an exciting adventure for any food enthusiast. Whether you’re seeking traditional Irish comfort food, innovative modern dishes, or international flavors, the city truly delivers. When planning your trip, consider your travel companions and their preferences. Areas like Temple Bar offer unparalleled vibrancy, perfect for adult groups, but other neighborhoods closer to St. Stephen’s Green might provide a calmer, equally delicious experience for families.
Don’t be afraid to venture beyond the obvious. Some of the most memorable meals come from unexpected places, whether it’s a bustling local chippy, a trendy doughnut shop, or even a distillery cafe. Embracing takeout can also be a fantastic way to enjoy Dublin’s diverse flavors, especially after a long day of sightseeing. Dublin invites you to explore, taste, and discover its incredible array of food – a journey that is sure to leave a lasting impression and perhaps, like us, a desire to return for more.