Global Major Cities Guide

Sections

1. Traditional Irish Cuisine

Dublin offers a fantastic opportunity to explore authentic Irish dishes, many of which are rooted in the country's agricultural history. Here are some must-try traditional dishes:

Irish Stew: A hearty dish made with lamb or mutton, potatoes, onions, and carrots. It's a staple of Irish comfort food.
Boxty: A type of potato pancake, often served with smoked salmon or as a side dish.
Coddle: A Dublin specialty made with sausages, bacon, potatoes, and onions, slow-cooked in a broth.
Seafood Chowder: A creamy soup made with fresh seafood, potatoes, and herbs, reflecting Ireland's coastal heritage.
Black and White Pudding: A type of sausage made with pork, oatmeal, and spices (black pudding includes blood, while white pudding does not). Often served as part of a traditional Irish breakfast.
Soda Bread: A dense, slightly sweet bread made with baking soda instead of yeast. It’s often served with butter or jam.
Irish Cream and Whiskey Desserts: Treat yourself to desserts like Baileys cheesecake or whiskey-infused bread pudding.

2. Popular Restaurants in Dublin

Dublin's dining scene is diverse, ranging from cozy pubs to Michelin-starred restaurants. Here are some top recommendations:

Traditional Irish Restaurants

The Brazen Head: Ireland's oldest pub (established in 1198) serves hearty Irish dishes in a historic setting.
Gallagher’s Boxty House: Located in Temple Bar, this spot specializes in boxty and other traditional Irish fare.
The Woollen Mills: A modern take on Irish classics, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.

Fine Dining

Chapter One: A Michelin-starred restaurant offering contemporary Irish cuisine with a creative twist.
Liath: Another Michelin-starred gem, known for its innovative tasting menus.
The Greenhouse: A fine dining experience with a focus on seasonal Irish produce.

Casual and International Options

Bunsen: Famous for its simple yet delicious burgers.
Brother Hubbard: A Middle Eastern-inspired café with excellent vegetarian and vegan options.
Klaw: A small seafood bar specializing in fresh oysters, crab, and lobster.

Hidden Gems

Delahunt: A cozy spot offering modern Irish cuisine in a historic building.
The Fumbally: A laid-back café with a focus on organic and sustainable ingredients.
Forest Avenue: A neighborhood restaurant with a creative tasting menu and a warm atmosphere.

3. Local Food Markets

Dublin’s food markets are a great way to experience the city’s culinary culture and pick up fresh, local produce.

Temple Bar Food Market (Saturdays): Located in the heart of the city, this market offers artisan bread, cheeses, fresh produce, and street food.
Howth Market (Weekends): Situated in the picturesque fishing village of Howth, this market features fresh seafood, baked goods, and crafts.
Dublin Flea Market (Monthly): A mix of food stalls, vintage items, and crafts, perfect for a casual day out.
The Green Door Market: A smaller market with organic produce, meats, and specialty foods.

4. Average Dining Costs

Dining in Dublin can range from budget-friendly to high-end, depending on your preferences:

Casual Meals: €10–€20 per person (e.g., cafés, pubs, and fast-casual spots).
Mid-Range Restaurants: €25–€40 per person for a two-course meal.
Fine Dining: €70–€150+ per person for a tasting menu or multi-course meal.
Pints of Beer: €5–€7 (Guinness is a must-try!).
Coffee: €3–€5 for a cup at a café.

5. Tipping Practices

Tipping in Dublin is not as obligatory as in some other countries, but it is appreciated for good service. Here’s a quick guide:

Restaurants: A tip of 10–15% is customary if service is not included in the bill (check for a "service charge").
Pubs: Tipping is not expected when ordering drinks at the bar, but you can leave a small tip if you receive table service.
Cafés: Tipping is optional but appreciated (e.g., rounding up the bill or leaving €1–€2).
Taxis: Rounding up to the nearest euro is common.

6. Dietary Accommodations

Dublin is an inclusive city with plenty of options for various dietary needs:

Vegetarian and Vegan: Many restaurants and cafés offer plant-based options. Try Cornucopia (a vegetarian institution) or Veginity (a vegan eatery with global flavors).
Gluten-Free: Look for gluten-free menus at places like The Gluten Free Kitchen Company or Boojum (a burrito bar with gluten-free options).
Halal: Halal-friendly restaurants include Zaytoon (Persian cuisine) and Camile Thai (a Thai food chain).
Kosher: While kosher options are limited, some international supermarkets stock kosher products.
Allergies: Most restaurants are accommodating and will list allergens on their menus. Don’t hesitate to ask staff for assistance.

7. Unique Dining Customs and Etiquette

Pub Culture: Pubs are central to Irish social life. While many serve food, they are also great places to enjoy a pint and live music. Don’t be shy about striking up a conversation with locals.
Tea Time: The Irish love their tea! Afternoon tea is a popular tradition, and many hotels and cafés offer elegant tea service with sandwiches and pastries.
Sharing Tables: In some casual spots, you may be seated at a communal table. This is a great way to meet new people.
Reservations: For popular restaurants, especially fine dining, it’s best to book in advance.

8. Must-Try Experiences

Guinness Storehouse: Enjoy a pint of Guinness at the Gravity Bar, which offers panoramic views of Dublin.
Irish Whiskey Tasting: Visit the Jameson Distillery or Teeling Distillery for a guided tasting experience.
Seafood in Howth: Take a short trip to Howth for fresh seafood and stunning coastal views.
Traditional Music and Food: Head to pubs like The Cobblestone or O’Donoghue’s for live Irish music paired with hearty pub grub.
Food Tours: Join a guided food tour to sample the best of Dublin’s culinary scene while learning about its history.

9. Hidden Gems

The Little Museum of Dublin Café: A charming spot for tea and scones after exploring the museum.
The Vintage Kitchen: A BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle) restaurant with a cozy atmosphere and excellent food.
Love Supreme: A small café in Stoneybatter known for its exceptional coffee and pastries.

Dublin’s food scene is a delightful mix of tradition and innovation, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re savoring a bowl of Irish stew in a historic pub or enjoying a Michelin-starred meal, the city’s culinary culture is sure to leave a lasting impression. Bon appétit—or as the Irish say, Bain taitneamh as do bhéile (Enjoy your meal)!

Dublin

Food and Dining