
It’s been a while since I last posted about my travels, so I though I’d get back on the Dublin Express! Trying new cuisines and the local delicacies is one of my favorite elements of visiting new places. So in this post, I’ll be discussing a couple of my go-to eateries and restaurants in Dublin. Everything I had, from the Bangers and Mash to the Seafood Chowder, was just OUTSTANDINGLY DELICIOUS.
1. The Brazen Head
If you want a taste of old Dublin, The Brazen Head is the place to go. This historic pub has been serving up food and drink since 1198, making it the oldest pub in Ireland. The Brazen Head is located in Liberties, an area of Dublin that was once home to many of the city’s most notorious criminals. These days, it’s a vibrant, multicultural neighbourhood with a lot of character. The Brazen Head is a great place to enjoy a pint of Guinness and some traditional Irish food.
One of Justin’s buddies had suggested that we check out The Brazen Head, so we did. The place was bustling with lunchtime diners, but as there were just the two of us, we were able to claim a couple of seats at a high table. The Brazen Head is undeniably a popular destination for visitors, but it is also Ireland’s oldest pub, so it is clear that locals frequent it as well. My lunch sandwich was a hit, and Justin enjoyed his Brazen Head burger. The pub has a cozy, comfortable atmosphere and the staff are friendly and welcoming. The Brazen Head is definitely worth a visit if you’re in Dublin.
2. The Hairy Lemon
Another suggestion from a buddy was the Hairy Lemon pub. We ended up appreciating it so much that we returned on the same vacation a second time! Like most other pubs in Dublin, it is crowded from noon till closing time, but the atmosphere was fantastic. The staff were kind, and the meal was delicious. This is where I had my first Bangers and Mash, as well as my first draught Guinness! It was the ideal combo, but the walk back to our accommodation was painfully slow. I needed to sleep!
3. Matt the Thresher
If you want a truly Dublin experience, you can’t go wrong with Matt the Thresher. This restaurant is located in a former threshing mill, and the decor reflects that history. The menu features fresh, local seafood, and the staff is very knowledgeable about the dishes they serve. The service is attentive and friendly, and the prices are reasonable. Their specials are always changing. We both ordered a seafood dish and a delicious dessert to share. At a place like this, I chose to be classy, and ordered wine over Guinness. It’s a Seafood Bar and Grill, that has won many local awards. We had a great experience at Matt the Thresher and would recommend it to anyone looking for a unique Dublin dining experience.
4. Brick Alley Cafe
So far, I’ve only discussed pubs that offer lunch and dinner, but let’s not forget the most crucial meal of the day: breakfast! We discovered this little Irish cafe in Dublin’s Temple Bar neighbourhood. If you need a caffeine boost, this is an excellent location to stop for a hot drink and a scone. There are lots of different food and drink choices, but sitting by the window and people-watching was my favourite part!
5. La Peniche
You may question why we chose to go to a French restaurant, in Dublin, but this isn’t just any average restaurant. It’s a dinner cruise! You get to enjoy a three-course meal, while floating down the Grand Canal. The food was delicious, but more so, the experience was fun and unique! We started out, sipping wine, on the upper deck (it was chilly, but the restaurant provides warm blankets). Then, we went inside to have our meal. If you are going to be in Dublin, I definitely recommend giving La Peniche a try!
What food is famous in Dublin?
Dublin is a foodie paradise, with something to suit every taste and budget. From Michelin-starred restaurants to cosy cafes and traditional pubs, the city has it all. Here are some of the most famous foods in Dublin.
The first thing that comes to mind when thinking of Dublin food is probably the humble potato. This humble vegetable is a staple of the Irish diet, and is often served boiled with butter and parsley. Dubliners also love their potatoes in the form of hearty stews, creamy mashed potatoes and, of course, chips (French fries).
Barmbrack is a baked bread loaf stuffed with dried fruit (mainly sultanas and raisins) and eaten with butter and tea; it is comparable to Christmas cake. This brack, or festive Irish candy, is usually eaten around Halloween.Traditionally, a ring would be baked into a barmbrack by certain Irish households. Whoever breaks the ring-shaped piece will be engaged shortly. Just remember to take your time chewing your lucky charm so you don’t accidentally choke on it.
Another Dublin favourite is the humble sausage. These delicious morsels are often served with either mashed potatoes or chips, and are a popular choice for a quick and easy meal. Dubliners also love their sausage rolls, which are a type of sausage sandwich made with flaky puff pastry.
If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, Dublin has plenty to offer. For seafood lovers, there are plenty of options, from fresh oysters to smoked salmon. For meat lovers, Dublin is home to some of the best steak in the country. And for vegetarians, there are plenty of delicious options, too.
So whatever your taste, you’re sure to find something to suit you in Dublin. Bon appetit!
You now know a handful of my favourite Dublin restaurants! Do you have any favourites you’d like to share? Do you make exploring new restaurants a priority when you travel? Please let me know!