18 Places to Eat and Drink in Dublin
Looking for the best things to do in Dublin? Our guide covers 18 amazing places to eat and drink in Dublin. From traditional Irish Pubs, delicious locally sourced brunch to the BEST Chinese noodle shop…. We’ve got you covered in this guide for 18 places to eat and drink in Dublin.
18 Places to Eat and Drink in Dublin
1. Skip The Temple Bar
While The Temple Bar is the most well known pub in Dublin, it’s grossly overpriced and overcrowded. Every local we talked to urged us to go to literally any other pub in Dublin. It gets especially crowded at and we’ve heard that the price of Guinness goes up as the night progresses. If you’re looking for a more authentic Irish Pub experience, skip the Temple bar and head to the location in number 3.
2. Visit Temple Bar
I KNOW I KNOW, we just told you not to go to The Temple Bar. However- Temple Bar is actually an area in Dublin filled with shops and restaurants. Be sure to stop into the many vintage clothing stores! There’s a lot to see and do here to be sure to check it out. And you can stop and get your picture in front of The Temple Bar if you want.
3. Darky Kelly’s
For an authentic Dublin experience, skip the overly touristy Temple Bar and head to Darkey Kelly's. Named after a woman with a notorious past, Darkey Kelly was the last woman burned alive in Ireland. The vibes here were 10/10 and they often have live music. Enjoy a hearty dinner and a pint while soaking in the true spirit of Dublin. Pro Tip: If it’s full inside, head to the very back and take the stairs up to the patio! No matter where you sit, you will get up and order at the bar and tell the bartender your table number. Drinks you will take yourself but the food will be brought to your table. We recommend the Bangers and Mash and the Guinness Stew.
4. Guinness Storehouse
No trip to Dublin is complete without visiting the Guinness Storehouse. Pro Tip: You can’t even walk into the Guinness Storehouse without a ticket so be sure to book your here. We spent 4+ hours exploring the Guinness Storehouse and it was SO FUN!!! They have restaurants, cafes, a huge bar with live music (this was busy but SO fun and the vibes were high!), and the Guinness merchandise store offers everything Guinness themed! This five-story attraction offers interactive exhibits, a Guinness Academy to learn the art of pouring a pint, and delicious treats at the cafes (try the Baileys latte, Guinness mocha, Guinness cake, and Baileys muffin). Don’t miss your free pint at the top-floor Sky Bar. Pro tip: Your ticket includes a pint of Guinness at the SkyBar but it get’s really busy up there. Have one person find a table while the other grabs the pints to secure a spot with a view. People come and go fairly often as you are only allowed 1 drink.
5. Guinness Open Gate Brewery
After the Storehouse, head around the corner to the Guinness Open Gate Brewery. Here you can sample other beers crafted by Guinness and enjoy a divine meal (the chicken wings are a must-try). They have a beautiful large patio and friendly service- honestly we couldn’t figure out why this place wasn’t busier! 100% worth a stop when you’re in Dublin and looking for places to eat and drink. Pro Tip: You place your order for food and drinks at the bar. They will hand you a bottle with a number on it and you take that to your table. This is how they know where to bring your food.
6. Biang Biang for Hand-Stretched Noodles
If you’re craving something different from the usual Irish fare, Biang Biang is the place to go. Renowned for its hand-stretched noodles, this restaurant offers some of the best Asian food outside of Asia- we would know, we’ve spent more than 6 months eating our way through Asia. Locals rave about their dumplings and noodles, making it a must-visit for foodies. We loved the food here so much we would actually travel back to Dublin just to eat there again.
7. Irish Whiskey Museum
Dive into the history of Irish whiskey at the Irish Whiskey Museum. There are a few different tours you can take, we opted for a tasting of Irish Whiskeys with a blending class. Pro Tip: Stop in to the bar near the lobby for some live music! The bar usually isn’t very busy so you should be able to get a front row seat. We found that it was difficult to get a seat in a pub that has live music so this was a real treat!
8. Coffee at St. Patrick’s Cathedral
Relax in the garden of St. Patrick's Cathedral. I know this might sound boring but it really is worth a stop. This is a great place to relax and people watch with the beautiful Cathedral in the backgound. Grab a takeaway coffee from the nearby cafe and enjoy a peaceful break from your walking adventures.
9. The Jameson Distillery
The Jameson Distillery tour is a must for whiskey enthusiasts. While the tour itself may not be as immersive as the Guinness Storehouse experience, it still offers fascinating insights into the history and craftsmanship of Jameson whiskey. Be sure to stop by the bar for some unique cocktails or a flight of Irish whiskeys—you won't be disappointed. Plus, they sell exclusive whiskeys that you can only find there, perfect for a special souvenir. Just a heads up: the gift shop tends to be overpriced, so choose your purchases wisely!
10. Sip a Pint at The Cobblestone
The Cobblestone is a must-visit for live music and a perfect pint of Guinness. This spot is a local gem and was recommended to us by our tour guide, Killian. Pro tip: the front entrance might be packed with tourists. Instead, use the side entrance around the corner for a quicker entry.
11. The Brazen Head Pub
Claiming to be Ireland's oldest pub, The Brazen Head dates back to 1198. With its historic ambiance and cozy interiors, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a pint of Guinness or some traditional Irish stew. The pub also features live music and storytelling sessions, offering an authentic taste of Irish culture.
12. Teeling Whiskey Distillery
Teeling Whiskey Distillery, located in Dublin's vibrant Liberties district, is known for its innovative approach to Irish whiskey. Explore their distinctive distillation process on a guided tour, from historic copper pot stills to aging in unique casks. After the tour, enjoy a tasting session featuring Teeling's celebrated Single Malt and Small Batch whiskeys, known for their rich flavors. We didn’t actually take the tour here but we did visit their bar for some Teeling cocktails! We highly recommend the Irish Coffee, skip the Espresso Martini. Afterwards, head to the gift shop for the chance to purchase exclusive bottlings, offering a unique memento of your visit Dublin.
13. Gallaghers Boxty House:
Nestled in the heart of Dublin, Gallagher's Boxty House stands out as a must-visit for anyone eager to indulge in authentic Irish cuisine. We tried some of their famed boxty dishes, traditional potato pancakes served with a variety of fillings. We 10/10 recommend the corned beef and cabbage boxty, a hearty and flavorful combination that embodies the comfort of Irish home cooking. This gem of a restaurant even caught the eye of the Netflix show "Somebody Feed Phil". If you’re in Dublin, Gallagher's Boxty House is an essential stop to experience genuine Irish hospitality and flavors.
14. The Hairy Lemon Pub
The Hairy Lemon Pub is a quirky spot with an eclectic decor that makes it stand out. Named after a Dublin character known for his unusual looks, this pub offers great food, a wide selection of drinks, and live music. It's an excellent place to unwind with a pint and enjoy the local atmosphere. If you’re looking for a souvenir to bring home, purchase a Hairy Lemon shirt for 15 Euros!
15. The Whiskey Reserve
For whiskey lovers, The Whiskey Reserve is a dream come true. Located right next to Temple Bar, this cozy spot offers an extensive selection of Irish whiskeys, from well-known brands to rare finds. The knowledgeable staff is always ready to help you pick out the perfect dram or suggest a whiskey flight. They also have a small 1920’s inspired bar inside with an original cocktail menu! It's a great place to relax, learn about Irish whiskey, and savor some of the best spirits Dublin has to offer.
16. The Long Haul
The Long Hall is a classic Dublin pub that’s been around since 1766. Step inside and you’ll be transported back in time with its Victorian-era decor, featuring ornate mirrors, dark wood, and vintage charm. It's the perfect spot to enjoy a pint of Guinness and soak in some authentic Dublin atmosphere. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, The Long Hall's warm, nostalgic vibe makes it a must-visit
17. Brunch at Brother Hubbard
Brother Hubbard is a beloved spot for brunch in Dublin. With a menu that emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a cozy atmosphere mixed with friendly service- this is the perfect start to a day un Dublin. Pro Tip: Be sure to try their home made cola, skip the chicken sandwich and opt for the french toast or this delicious Irish Breakfast!
18. Dash Burger
If you’re craving a truly good burger, head to Dash Burger (or order delivery). They specialize in made to order smash burgers that are absolutely DELICIOUS! We also love their open kitchen concept which really just makes us feel a part of the action and better knowing where and how our food is being prepared. We HIGHLY recommend getting some loaded fries too.
BONUS: Dark Dublin Tour
For a twist, take a Dark Dublin walking tour. This isn't your typical sightseeing tour; it's filled with the gruesome and fascinating history of Dublin. The tour guide, Killian, is a fantastic guide and we loved his enthusiasm. He also was happy to give
Dublin is a city that seamlessly blends rich history, vibrant culture, and a bustling modern vibe. From iconic brews and hearty meals to captivating tours and serene gardens, Dublin has something for everyone. Enjoy your stay, and make the most of every moment in this charming city. Sláinte!
Getting to the City Center from the Airport
Start your adventure by hopping on the National Express bus from the airport to the city center. It's convenient, reliable, and buying a round-trip ticket will save you some euros. Just walk outside the terminal and on the left you will find a stand where you can purchase tickets. Be sure to keep the receipt as this will be your ticket onto the bus and when you return. A perfect start to your Dublin journey!
Where to Stay in Dublin
When it comes to accommodations, central Dublin is your best bet. However, be savvy with your choice:
Budget hotels in Dublin: Most of the more affordable options are hostels located close to a noisy bar. We might recommend renting a room in someones apartment on Airbnb like this highly rated listing.
For a restful night's sleep, consider booking a proper hotel. The Hyatt brand offers a beautiful hotel in Dublin, providing comfort and convenience. With certain credit cards, like this one - or this one, you can transfer as little as 12,000 points to stay for free! Sleep well, and wake up refreshed for your Dublin adventures.
Top rated hotels in Dublin: The Leinster, Thomas Moore Inn, Beckett Locke.
Remember to check every accommodation for the most recent reviews before booking and do a quick google maps search to see if there are any bars nearby.
Dublin Resources
Stay connected with an eSim! Never buy a physical sim card again- eSims make it stress free to use your phone abroad. We recommend Airalo which is the eSim we’ve been using for over 2 years.
Book your accommodation with Booking.com
Don’t travel without Travel Insurance! SafetyWing offers the best international travel insurance, it’s super easy to sign up, they offer 24/7 customer service AND it’s affordable!
Book your Dublin Tours with GetYourGuide or Viator
