Global Major Cities Guide

A diverse selection of dining establishments offering both local and international cuisines.

Sections

1. Types of Cuisine Available in Drogheda

Drogheda offers a diverse range of cuisines, reflecting both traditional Irish fare and international influences. Here are the main types of cuisine you can expect:

Traditional Irish Cuisine: Expect hearty dishes like Irish stew, fish and chips, soda bread, and seafood chowder.
Seafood: Being close to the coast, Drogheda has excellent seafood options, including fresh oysters, mussels, and fish dishes.
European Cuisine: Italian, French, and Mediterranean restaurants are popular in the town.
Asian Cuisine: Chinese, Thai, and Indian restaurants are available for those seeking something more exotic.
Casual Dining and Cafés: Pubs, bistros, and coffee shops serve everything from sandwiches and soups to gourmet burgers.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options: Many restaurants now cater to plant-based diets, with dedicated menus or adaptable dishes.

2. Popular Dining Spots in Drogheda

Here are some of the most recommended restaurants and eateries in Drogheda:

Traditional Irish and Seafood

Scholars Townhouse Hotel Restaurant
- Cuisine: Modern Irish with a focus on local ingredients.
- Highlights: Elegant dining in a historic setting. Try their seafood dishes or Sunday roast.
- Price Range: €€€ (Mid to High).
- Reservations: Recommended, especially for dinner or weekends.
The Cross
- Cuisine: Irish pub food with a contemporary twist.
- Highlights: Known for its fresh seafood and cozy atmosphere.
- Price Range: €€ (Moderate).
- Reservations: Not always necessary but advisable for larger groups.

European and Mediterranean

La Pizzeria
- Cuisine: Italian.
- Highlights: Authentic wood-fired pizzas and homemade pasta.
- Price Range: €€ (Moderate).
- Reservations: Recommended during peak hours.
Eastern Seaboard Bar & Grill
- Cuisine: European with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
- Highlights: Stylish setting with a varied menu, including vegetarian options.
- Price Range: €€€ (Mid to High).
- Reservations: Strongly recommended.

Asian Cuisine

Simona Café
- Cuisine: Thai and Asian fusion.
- Highlights: Flavorful curries and noodle dishes.
- Price Range: €€ (Moderate).
- Reservations: Usually not required.
Indus Indian Restaurant
- Cuisine: Indian.
- Highlights: Authentic curries, naan bread, and tandoori dishes.
- Price Range: €€ (Moderate).
- Reservations: Recommended for dinner.

Casual Dining and Cafés

Aisha’s Café & Bistro
- Cuisine: International and Irish.
- Highlights: Great for breakfast, brunch, or a light lunch.
- Price Range: € (Budget-Friendly).
- Reservations: Not required.
The Bare Food Company
- Cuisine: Healthy, organic, and vegetarian-friendly.
- Highlights: Fresh salads, soups, and smoothies.
- Price Range: €€ (Moderate).
- Reservations: Not required.

Pubs with Food

The Mariner
- Cuisine: Irish pub food.
- Highlights: Great for casual dining with hearty portions.
- Price Range: €€ (Moderate).
- Reservations: Not required.
Clarkes Bar
- Cuisine: Pub grub with a focus on local ingredients.
- Highlights: A traditional Irish pub atmosphere with great food.
- Price Range: €€ (Moderate).
- Reservations: Not required.

3. Price Ranges

Budget-Friendly (€): Under €15 per person.
- Examples: Cafés, casual eateries, and some pubs.
Moderate (€€): €15–€30 per person.
- Examples: Most mid-range restaurants and pubs.
High-End (€€€): €30+ per person.
- Examples: Fine dining establishments like Scholars Townhouse.

4. Reservation Procedures

When to Reserve:
- For fine dining or popular restaurants, especially on weekends or during holidays, reservations are highly recommended.
- Casual dining spots and pubs usually don’t require reservations, but it’s worth calling ahead for larger groups.
How to Reserve:
- Most restaurants accept reservations via phone.
- Some have online booking systems on their websites or through platforms like OpenTable.
- Walk-ins are generally welcome at pubs and casual eateries, but availability may vary during busy times.

5. Local Dining Customs and Considerations

Tipping:
- Tipping is not mandatory in Ireland, but it is appreciated. A tip of 10–15% is customary for good service in restaurants.
- In pubs, tipping is less common, but you can round up the bill or leave a small amount for exceptional service.
Dining Hours:
- Lunch is typically served from 12:00 PM to 2:30 PM.
- Dinner service usually starts around 5:30 PM and can go until 9:30 PM or later.
- Some pubs and casual spots serve food all day.
Dietary Preferences:
- Most restaurants are accommodating of dietary restrictions, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. It’s best to inform the staff when booking or upon arrival.
Dress Code:
- Casual attire is acceptable in most places, but fine dining establishments may expect smart-casual dress.
Family-Friendly Options:
- Many restaurants in Drogheda are family-friendly and offer children’s menus or high chairs. Pubs may have restrictions on children after certain hours.
Local Ingredients:
- Drogheda’s proximity to the Boyne Valley means many restaurants use fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Look out for seasonal specials!

6. Special Events and Food Festivals

Boyne Valley Food Series:
- A celebration of local food and drink, featuring events like farm-to-fork dinners, food markets, and tastings.
Drogheda Arts Festival:
- While primarily an arts event, it often includes food stalls and pop-up dining experiences.

7. Final Tips

Ask Locals: Don’t hesitate to ask locals for recommendations—they often know hidden gems.
Try Irish Specialties: Be sure to sample local dishes like seafood chowder, black pudding, and Irish soda bread.
Check Opening Hours: Some restaurants may close on Mondays or have limited hours during the off-season.

With this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to explore Drogheda’s dining scene and enjoy the town’s culinary offerings. Bon appétit—or as the Irish say, "Bain taitneamh as do bhéile!" (Enjoy your meal!)

Drogheda

Restaurants