Here are my top places to eat and drink in Dublin. But first! Let’s explore how to get around the city..
Getting Into Town from the Airport
Getting around Dublin is super easy and doesn’t require spending loads of money. It’s a small city that has loads of travel options, plus walking around is so much fun! If you’re staying in Dublin city centre, there are a few ways to get into town:
Taxi: As you leave departures, you’ll find plenty of taxis waiting in a queue, ready to take you into the city. The average cost is about €30-40, and the journey takes approximately 30 minutes—provided you don’t hit rush hour!
Private Car or Chauffeur: This can be pre-arranged online, and your driver will usually park and collect you at arrivals. You could continue your Dublin experience with the same driver—making things easy! Try my trusted friend Rob McAuley of Ace Chauffer Drive for an unforgettable luxury-driven experience.
Renting a Car: You can book online in advance and pick up your car at the airport, or wait until you venture outside Dublin to explore Ireland. There are many car hire companies to choose from. My personal favourite is Europcar—slightly more expensive but worth every penny! They have a super easy pickup point in Spencer Dock.
Bus: By far the cheapest option, but also slightly less convenient! Follow the signs to the bus centre when you leave departures—it’s very close. Routes 782 and 784 operate between the city centre and Dublin Airport. Route 782 includes stops between George’s Quay and Custom House Quay via Heuston Station. Honestly, if I were you, I’d choose a taxi or a driver, especially if you’re jet-lagged and unfamiliar with the city. But if you’re up for an adventure—go for it!
Once I’m in the City, How Do I Get Around?
Walking:
If your hotel is based in the city centre, you can easily walk to most tourist destinations—provided it’s not raining! But even if it does, just dress for the weather and bring a brolly (that’s an umbrella!).
Bicycles:
A fun and fast way to get around the city! Dublin has plenty of bike rental spots where you can pick up and drop off city bikes. I’m a bit scared of cycling in town, but if you’re confident cycling in a big city, you’ll enjoy it! At your own risk, though!
Bus, Luas, and Dart:
If you need a break from walking, buses and the Luas (tram) will get you everywhere you need to go. Ask your hotel reception for advice on the best routes. I recommend purchasing a Leap Card (€5) from a local shop—you can top it up as you go and use it on buses, the Luas, and the Dart (train).
If you want to venture outside the city centre to places such as Howth, Killiney, Dalkey, Bray, Greystones, or Wicklow, the Dart train is the way to go. You can use your Leap Card on the Dart, too! Stations in the city centre include Connolly, Tara, Pearse, and Grand Canal Dock.
Driving Your Rental:
Totally doable, but remember—parking can be a pain, and traffic in town is crazy! I’d recommend parking your rental until you venture out of the city for a scenic hike in Glendalough—or maybe even a photoshoot!
Top Places to Eat and Drink in Dublin City Centre
If you’re like me and you love food and wine, you’ve chosen not just the right city for a foodie holiday but the right country! Dublin has an incredible amount of fabulous eateries, bars, and pubs (yes, there’s a difference!).
I’ve complied a comprehensive list of my top places to eat and drink in Dublin. These include my best bars in Dublin City Centre and cool restaurants in Dublin.
I’m not going to tell you about the usual touristy spots—your tour guide and hotel can do that for you. Instead, here are the cool restaurants in Dublin that locals are loving right now. Some I’ve had the pleasure of frequenting, and others are still on my wish list. Either way, they’re hot right now!
Best Bars in Dublin City Centre (North of the Liffey)
Oh my, my, my! This has to be a no 1 in my best bars in Dublin City centre! If you love cocktails, you’re in for a treat! This is the perfect pre-dinner drink spot (they serve tasty nibbles too) or an after-dinner delight. Remember to book—it’s a cozy place, and seats are in high demand!
Do try their speciality Poitín (Irish homemade liquor) cocktails!
Only a stone’s throw from Bar 1661, this iconic and secretive pub is invitation-only! You have to be “accepted” by the owner, who only lets a select few inside. It’s nothing fancy, but the stars seem to love it, and the atmosphere is always great.
These two bars are just off Capel Street, which is now pedestrianized and packed with funky bars and restaurants—mainly Asian and very LGBTQ+ friendly. The famous Pantibar is here if you fancy a bop at the end of the night to Kylie or Madonna!
Take the Luas north to Smithfield, and you’ll find even more cool spots within walking distance.
Fidelity has beer and wine on tap, a funky DJ, and a cool vibe. Bonobo has a lovely outdoor garden and fantastic cocktails. They also serve pizza if you’re hungry!
Best Restaurants in Dublin City Centre (North of the Liffey)
Brother Hubbard – Best Breakfast & Brunch
A must-visit for breakfast lovers! They also do amazing lunches and sweet treats, and the coffee is unreal. Their Capel Street location is the largest—booking is advised!
Krewe – New Orleans-Inspired Dining
Located just off Bar 1661, Krewe offers Southern American/New Orleans-inspired dishes with delicious cocktails and great music. A casual, fun spot after a long day of sightseeing.
The Fish Shop – Seafood Lovers’ Paradise
A tiny gem near Fidelity Bar, this place serves fresh-off-the-boat seafood, with menus changing daily based on what’s available. The wine selection is unreal. Booking is a must! It’s one of mine and John’s cool restaurants in Dublin!
Grano – Authentic Italian Cuisine
Located in Stoneybatter, Grano serves homemade pasta in a cozy, candle-lit setting. It converted me into an Italian food lover! Book at least two months in advance!
Mr Fox – A Gourmet Experience
Just a short walk from Stoneybatter, Mr Fox offers an exceptional tasting menu that changes based on seasonal ingredients. A must-try for foodies!
Chapter One – Dublin’s Fine Dining Institution
For a truly special experience, book a table at Chapter One. It’s worth the price tag! Dress up and make a night of it.
Top Places to Eat in Dublin City Centre (South of the Liffey)
One of Dublin’s oldest and most beloved pubs! Amazing Guinness and a cozy interior. Grab a seat outside for people-watching!
A beautiful breakfast spot with an all-day menu. It’s part of the famous Westbury Hotel—perfect if you’re shopping on Grafton Street.
If you’re taking a break from tours at want to filling brunch, head over to Café en Seine. A delicious menu to suits all tastes and super cool Parisian dining garden.
Nestled in Spencer Dock, Alta is the new hip spot in town. Locally sourced, char-grilled tasting menus of fish, meat, and veg to die for! Funky cocktails, a romantic vibe—dress up and enjoy!
Just across from Dawson Street lies a tiny little gem hidden right next to a parking lot entrance. (you might miss it if I don’t tell you this!)
The idea is fine dining tastes made to share and enjoy in a funky urban setting with fabulous wine. Highly recommended by me and all my foodie friends.
Meander in down through Grafter Street to the lovely little closed street of Caple Street. Another restaurant that would be missed if you blinked and ALSO right next to or basically in a car park!
Very small bites but oh my goodness so tasty! Accompanied with a selection of wines on tap. This place is perfect for nibbling and drinking the night away.
Pichet is nestled on the corner of Trinity Street. She’s a bit of an institution of French-Irish fusion. I want to say more fine dining than most nut also wholesome hearty meals! Cosy and romantic interiors and delicious cocktails to match!
Diwali & Pickle – Best Indian Restaurants
Diwali: Authentic Indian on George’s Street, always busy, incredibly flavorful.
Pickle: Slightly fancier, with experimental Indian dishes and amazing flavours. Located on Camden Street Lower.
Finally I’ll leave you on Camden Street because there are loads of lovely little pubs, bars and eateries to discover BUT do pop inti Franks! If you love wine and tasting bits in a small little spot this one is for you! Try to get a spot at the window to people watch ;-)
Just to note ALL of these places must be booked! If you like the look of one, incorporate it into your daily schedule. Alternatively, you could pop into them after your tour and ask to be placed on a waiting list, go and get ready, head for a drink and hopefully they will fit you in.
I really hope you enjoy all that this amazing city has to offer and if you find some cool gems that blew you away please do let me know about so we can spread the love of our local vendors!
If you’re thinking of planning your engagement shoot in Dublin or planning an elopement in Dublin and the regions around Dublin take a look at these two blogs for some inspiration!
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