Where to Eat in Dublin, Ireland: Local Flavor, Hidden Gems & Unforgettable Bites
My husband and I visited Dublin this past March, and I’m still thinking about the food. I’m that person who spends way too much time researching restaurants before a trip, and Dublin made all that effort totally worth it. Whether we were craving something quick and comforting or a slow dinner with cocktails, this city had us covered. These are the spots that turned our vacation into a food tour—and the ones I’d return to in a heartbeat.
Oh’Rourkes
This was hands-down the best full Irish breakfast we had in Dublin—and ever. Tucked into a quiet corner of the city, Oh’Rourke’s feels like a true locals-only spot, where the coffee is hot, the sausages are sizzling, and you're likely the only American in the room. It's a no-frills, mom-and-pop diner that serves up comfort on a plate. Eggs, rashers, black and white pudding, grilled tomato—the whole spread was perfect. It felt like eating in someone’s kitchen, and I mean that in the very best way.
Radisson Blu Hotel on Golden Lane
Normally, hotel breakfasts are something you suffer through for convenience—but this one? Worth writing home about. The Radisson Blu’s breakfast was generous, thoughtfully done, and full of flavor. Everything from the eggs to the pastries felt curated, not cafeteria-style. It was easily the best hotel breakfast we’ve ever had, and the perfect way to fuel up for a day of city exploring.
Leo Burdock’s
If a taxi driver recommends a place twice, you go. And then you go again. Leo Burdock’s is iconic for a reason. Their fish and chips are exactly what you dream about when you think “classic Dublin”—crispy, salty, piping hot, and wrapped in paper. The fish was flaky and tender, and the chips were just the right amount of greasy. The fact that our cab driver used to pull up on the curb mid-route for his fix? Legendary. Go hungry and eat it with your hands.
Las Tapas de Lola
Tiny, warm, and wildly flavorful, Las Tapas de Lola was one of our most memorable meals. This intimate spot specializes in small plates with big character. The pollo al ajillo (crispy garlic chicken) was my favorite—bold, garlicky, and so satisfying. The mussels in marinara and ensaladilla rusa (a tuna salad that my husband loved) rounded out a meal that felt like it was made for slow sips and second helpings. If you're craving tapas in Dublin, this is the place.
Pacino’s
We stumbled into Pacino’s between Mass and an Irish whiskey tasting, and it turned out to be the pick-me-up we didn’t know we needed. Decadent pizza, cozy ambiance, and classic Italian flavors brought us back to life. It’s the kind of place that gives you energy to keep sightseeing but also makes you want to linger over another glass of wine. A hidden gem when you're wandering central Dublin with no plans and a big appetite.
FX Buckley on Pembroke Street
This steakhouse was a must on our list, and it lived up to the hype. FX Buckley is consistently rated one of the best in Ireland, and for good reason. The grass-fed beef has a depth of flavor that feels distinctly Irish, and I recommend going for a fattier cut like a ribeye to balance out the leanness. We paired ours with classic cocktails—an old fashioned for him, a filthy martini for me—and then ended the meal with dessert drinks that honestly stole the show. The Irish coffee twist was magic.
Irish Whiskey Museum
If you're going to drink an Irish coffee, it might as well be from the people who claim to serve the original recipe. The Irish Whiskey Museum’s Irish coffee was the best I’ve ever had—perfectly balanced, not too sweet, and beautifully boozy. I had to chug mine before our tour started, and even with a slightly scorched tongue, it was still unforgettable. A must if you want the real deal.
Jameson Secret Tasting
We did the secret tasting experience at Jameson and ended with a delicious whiskey punch that sealed the deal. I don’t remember exactly what was in it—something citrusy, spiced, maybe even magical—but I’ve been dreaming of recreating it ever since. It felt like the kind of drink you serve friends on a chilly evening, and I already know it’s making an appearance at our next Friendsgiving.
Honorable Mentions in Ireland, but not Dublin
Marina Market | Cork, Ireland
This food hall in Cork was such a fun discovery—an open, lively space filled with local vendors slinging everything from curry to ramen to fresh seafood. We tried a little bit of everything: chicken tikka masala, tonkotsu ramen, and massive local oysters that were some of the freshest I’ve had. It’s the kind of spot that invites you to explore, sample, and just enjoy being surrounded by good food and good energy.
Gallagher’s | Cork, Ireland
We came here on a mission: my husband wanted Guinness pie and sticky toffee pudding, and Gallagher’s delivered both in spectacular fashion. The pie was rich and comforting, with tender beef and a flaky crust, and the pudding was exactly what you want from a classic dessert—moist, buttery, and drizzled in toffee sauce. My mussels, cooked the traditional Irish way, were some of the best of the trip. This place is pure comfort.
The Strand Cahore | Cahore, Ireland
After exploring the tiny village my husband’s family emigrated from, we took a scenic drive to Cahore and ended up at The Strand for lunch. It was the perfect stop. We split a salad that was light but incredibly satisfying: poached pears, bleu cheese, candied pecans, local honey, and Cajun chicken. Every bite had texture, flavor, and balance. It was one of those meals that feels effortless but stays with you. Just a beautiful, peaceful ending to a meaningful day.
Dublin stole our hearts in all the best ways—through cozy pubs, buttery seafood, rich stews, and more Irish coffee than I care to admit. Every meal felt like a new little adventure, full of charm, warmth, and that unmistakable Irish hospitality. Whether you're hunting down the perfect pint, craving the crunch of fresh fish and chips, or splurging on a beautifully cooked steak, there's something here for every craving and curiosity. We left with full bellies, full hearts, and already dreaming about the day we can come back.