Global Major Cities Guide

Dublin offers an increasing number of vegetarian and vegan restaurants and menu options to cater to all dietary needs.

Sections

1. Overview: How Accommodating is Dublin for Vegetarians and Vegans?

Dublin is highly accommodating for vegetarians and increasingly so for vegans. While traditional Irish cuisine is often meat-heavy, the city has embraced the global trend toward plant-based eating. Many restaurants now offer dedicated vegetarian and vegan menus, and plant-based options are widely available in cafes, pubs, and even traditional Irish establishments. Supermarkets and food markets also stock a variety of vegan products, making it easy to maintain a plant-based diet.

Cultural Considerations: While traditional Irish dishes like Irish stew and black pudding are not vegetarian-friendly, many chefs in Dublin are creative in adapting these dishes for plant-based diets. Locals are generally open-minded and accommodating, so don’t hesitate to ask for modifications to menu items.
Language Tip: If you’re vegan, it’s helpful to specify that you don’t eat dairy or eggs, as some people may not fully understand the distinction between vegetarian and vegan.

2. Popular Vegetarian and Vegan Restaurants in Dublin

Here are some of the best spots in Dublin for plant-based dining:

a. Vegan and Vegetarian-Only Restaurants

Cornucopia
- Type: Vegetarian and vegan restaurant
- Location: 19/20 Wicklow Street, Dublin 2
- Highlights: A long-standing favorite, Cornucopia offers hearty, home-cooked vegetarian and vegan meals. Their menu changes daily and includes soups, salads, hot dishes, and desserts.
- Cost: €10–€15 for a main dish; €5–€7 for desserts.
- Must-Try: Vegan lasagna, sweet potato and lentil dhal, and their vegan chocolate cake.
Veginity
- Type: Fully vegan restaurant
- Location: 101 Dorset Street Upper, Dublin 1
- Highlights: Known for its innovative, globally inspired vegan dishes, Veginity offers a fine-dining experience with a casual vibe.
- Cost: €12–€18 for mains; €6–€8 for starters.
- Must-Try: Jackfruit tacos, vegan ramen, and their signature desserts.
Sova Vegan Butcher
- Type: Fully vegan restaurant
- Location: 51 Pleasants Street, Dublin 8
- Highlights: A unique concept offering plant-based versions of classic meat dishes, such as vegan steaks and burgers.
- Cost: €20–€30 for a three-course meal.
- Must-Try: Vegan steak, seitan schnitzel, and their tiramisu.

b. Restaurants with Excellent Vegetarian and Vegan Options

The Fumbally
- Type: Cafe with vegetarian and vegan options
- Location: Fumbally Lane, Dublin 8
- Highlights: A trendy cafe with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. They offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, including salads, soups, and sandwiches.
- Cost: €8–€12 for a meal.
- Must-Try: Vegan falafel plate and their sourdough bread with hummus.
Brother Hubbard (North and South)
- Type: Cafe with vegetarian and vegan options
- Location: 153 Capel Street (North) and 46 Harrington Street (South)
- Highlights: A Middle Eastern-inspired menu with plenty of plant-based options.
- Cost: €10–€15 for a main dish.
- Must-Try: Vegan mezze platter and their spiced lentil soup.
Umi Falafel
- Type: Middle Eastern restaurant
- Location: 13 Dame Street, Dublin 2 (and other locations)
- Highlights: A casual eatery specializing in falafel wraps, salads, and mezze plates.
- Cost: €6–€10 for a meal.
- Must-Try: Falafel and hummus wrap, and their vegan baklava.

c. Food Markets and Casual Dining

Temple Bar Food Market
- Location: Meeting House Square, Temple Bar, Dublin 2 (Saturdays only)
- Highlights: A vibrant market offering fresh produce, vegan baked goods, and street food.
- Cost: €5–€10 for street food items.
- Must-Try: Vegan pastries and plant-based street food stalls.
Eatyard
- Location: 9-10 South Richmond Street, Dublin 2
- Highlights: A street food market with rotating vendors, many of which offer vegan options.
- Cost: €8–€12 for a meal.
- Must-Try: Check out the vegan burger stalls and plant-based desserts.

3. Local Specialties and Unique Dishes

While traditional Irish cuisine is not inherently vegetarian or vegan, some dishes have been adapted for plant-based diets:

Vegan Irish Stew: Made with root vegetables, lentils, and a rich broth, this is a comforting take on a classic dish.
Boxty: A traditional Irish potato pancake that can be made vegan by omitting dairy.
Soda Bread: Many cafes offer vegan versions of this Irish staple, often served with plant-based butter or spreads.

4. Costs for Vegetarian and Vegan Dining

Casual Dining: €8–€15 per meal (e.g., cafes, food markets, and casual restaurants).
Mid-Range Restaurants: €15–€25 per meal.
Fine Dining: €30–€50 per person for a three-course vegan meal.

5. Tips for Finding Plant-Based Options in Dublin

Use Apps: Apps like HappyCow and Vegan Maps are excellent for locating vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants in Dublin.
Ask for Modifications: Most restaurants are happy to accommodate dietary preferences, so don’t hesitate to ask for vegan versions of dishes.
Supermarkets: Major supermarkets like Tesco, Dunnes Stores, and SuperValu stock a wide range of vegan products, including plant-based milks, cheeses, and ready meals.
Pubs: While traditional Irish pubs may not have extensive vegan options, many now offer at least one plant-based dish, such as a vegan burger or curry.

6. Cultural and Practical Considerations

Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory in Ireland, but it’s customary to leave 10–15% for good service in restaurants.
Reservations: Popular vegan and vegetarian restaurants like Sova Vegan Butcher and Veginity can get busy, so it’s a good idea to book a table in advance.
Allergies: If you have specific dietary restrictions or allergies, communicate them clearly to your server. Irish restaurants are generally accommodating and will do their best to meet your needs.

Dublin’s vegetarian and vegan dining scene is vibrant and diverse, offering something for everyone, from casual street food to fine dining experiences. With a little planning, you’ll have no trouble enjoying delicious plant-based meals while exploring the city.