Dublin for Foodies

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@douxvenom - Sofia Carraro Rocha - Service (Marketing & Digital Marketing)
  • The guide recommends Dublin’s top backpacker-friendly eats from brunch stars to vegan gems and traditional Irish pub grub.
  • It covers comfort food like Dash Burger smash burgers, Pitt Bros BBQ ribs and international flavours from Hakkahan Chinese dumplings to Kimchi Hophouse Korean BBQ.
  • Budget tips highlight markets, no need to book casual spots and tipping 10% appreciated but optional.

Dublin might be known for its pubs and pints, but let’s not forget the real hero: the food. Whether you’re craving yummy brunchs, smoky BBQ, spicy noodles or some proper Irish stew, this city delivers. If you’re a hungry backpacker or young traveller bouncing around Europe, here’s your ultimate guide to filling your belly in Dublin.

Best Brunch Spots in Dublin

Woke up late? You’re in the right city. Dublin has some brilliant brunch cafés perfect for curing travel fatigue.

Brother Hubbard (North & South)

Hands down one of the best brunch spots in Dublin, Brother Hubbard is always a winner. Whether you hit up the North or South location, you’ll find flavour-packed brunch dishes in Dublin that go beyond your usual avo toast.

Try this: Turkish eggs, shakshuka or their dreamy French toast

Don’t miss: Their house-roasted coffee – smooth and strong!

📍 Perfect for: Foodies looking for a unique brunch near the city centre

Grove Road (Rathmines)

This cosy café in Rathmines is ideal for those slow, rainy Dublin mornings. Grove Road is low-key, artsy and great for people-watching – especially if you grab a window seat facing the canal.

Try this: Breakfast burrito or their veggie hash

Bonus: Local art on the walls and a playlist that makes you wanna linger

📍 Perfect for: Brunch lovers searching for laid-back cafés in Dublin with outdoor seating 

Lemon Jelly Café (Millennium Walkway)

Super central and full of charm, Lemon Jelly Café is one of the most affordable brunch options in the city. The vibe is chill and the menu has something for everyone – from sweet crêpes to hearty full Irish breakfasts.

Try this: Nutella banana crepe or classic Eggs Benedict

Bonus: Great value for money, especially in central Dublin!

📍 Perfect for: Backpackers or anyone looking for cheap brunch in Dublin city centre

4. Two Boys Brew (Phibsborough)

Two Boys Brew brings Melbourne-style brunch to Dublin and we are here for it. Expect big flavours, beautifully plated dishes and some of the best specialty coffee in the city.

Try this: Buttermilk chicken sambos, miso mushrooms or their rotating specials

Pro tip: It’s a hotspot on Instagram, so arrive early if you want a table!

📍 Perfect for: Coffee snobs, digital nomads and fans of trendy brunch cafés in Dublin

Fable + Fabery (Camden Street)

Bright, airy and full of charm, Fable + Stey (formerly Fable + Fabery) is the brunch spot you go to when you want something both delicious and photogenic. Think fresh ingredients, a calming atmosphere and a touch of Scandinavian chic. Don’t forget your phone – this café was made for the ‘gram

Try this: Ricotta pancakes or their seasonal granola bowl

📍 Perfect for: Weekend brunch dates or anyone hunting for Instagrammable brunch spots in Dublin 

Top Vegan & Veggie Friendly Eats

Even meat-lovers will love these plant-based gems.

Veginity (Richmond Street)

Veginity is where you go when you want your vegan food to have a bit of attitude. Their street food-style dishes are colourful, creative and packed with bold flavours that’ll surprise even the biggest meat lovers. 100% vegan and full of fusion flavours

Try this: Korean BBQ tofu tacos or their Sunday brunch menu

📍 Perfect for: Backpackers searching for best vegan street food in Dublin

Sova Vegan Butcher (Portobello)

If you’re after a more elevated plant-based experience, Sova Vegan Butcher is your spot. This Portobello favourite serves everything from vegan steaks to creamy pasta dishes and even vegan schnitzels – yep, you read that right. Fancy but still fun – perfect for a dinner treat without breaking the bank

Try this: Seitan steak with pepper sauce or the beetroot burger

📍 Perfect for: Travellers wanting a stylish vegan fine dining experience in Dublin 

Cornucopia (Wicklow Street)

A Dublin institution, Cornucopia has been dishing out wholesome veggie food since the 80s. Think hearty vegetarian stews, fresh salads and vegan desserts that hit the spot after a day of sightseeing.

Try this: Vegan lasagne or their lentil & sweet potato stew

Bonus: Warm, welcoming atmosphere with lots of seating

📍 Perfect for: Anyone looking for a cosy vegetarian café in Dublin city centre

Traditional Irish & Gastro Pubs

Here’s where to get that comforting, traditional Irish feed.

The Celt (Talbot Street)

The Celt is the real deal. Tucked just off O’Connell Street, this traditional Irish pub serves up classic dishes like Irish stew and coddle alongside live folk music most nights.

Try this: Traditional lamb stew with soda bread

Bonus: Live Irish music and great atmosphere every evening

📍 Perfect for: Backpackers hunting for authentic Irish pub food in Dublin city centre 

O’Neill’s Pub (Suffolk Street)

This place is an icon. At O’Neill’s, the carvery lunches are legendary – piled-high plates of roast meat, creamy mash and all the trimmings. It’s affordable, filling and right in the heart of the city. Huge portions for a very fair price – ideal for hungry travellers

Try this: Roast beef with gravy and potatoes

📍 Perfect for: Young travellers wanting traditional Irish roast dinner in Dublin

The Water Bank Gastro Bar (Bachelors Walk)

The Water Bank is a hidden gem just steps from the Liffey. It’s a more relaxed setting with a lovely menu of modern Irish favourites, plus they’ve got a great selection of craft beers and Guinness on tap. Chill spot for groups or solo backpackers – no fuss, just solid food

Try this: Chicken supreme or their daily fish special

📍 Perfect for: A casual Irish gastro pub experience near Temple Bar

L’Gueuleton (Fade Street)

If you’re feeling a little boujee or celebrating something special on your travels, L’Gueuleton is a brilliant pick. Their French-Irish fusion menu features everything from steak frites to slow-cooked lamb in a setting that’s effortlessly cool. Great wine list and that “date night” kind of vibe

Try this: Duck confit or their côte de boeuf to share

📍 Perfect for: Travellers looking for fancy traditional Irish dinner in Dublin with a twist 

Burgers, BBQ & Big Flavours

Need comfort food? These spots are calling your name.

Dash Burger (Kevin Street + Capel Street)

Smash burger heaven! Dash Burger Dublin is perfect if you want something quick, dirty and packed with flavour. Super affordable, ultra-Instagrammable and usually involves licking your fingers. Budget-friendly, ideal for broke backpackers

Try this: Cheeseburger with crispy edges and their garlic aioli

📍 Great choice for: Best cheap burgers in Dublin for students and travellers

Pitt Bros Smoked BBQ (South Great George’s Street)

Smoked brisket, BBQ ribs, mac & cheese, burnt ends… and oh yeah, free soft serve ice cream after your meal. What’s not to love? Pitt Bros is a meaty, messy feast and great for groups. Finish off with free dessert – you’re welcome!

Try this: Brisket tray with house sauces

📍 Best stop for: Authentic BBQ restaurants in Dublin city centre 

BoCo Dublin (Bolton Street)

OK, technically pizza – but trust us, BoCo deserves a spot here. Their wood-fired, crispy-base pizzas hit the spot every time. Bonus: garlic dip game is strong. Cosy vibes and great service – not too fancy, not too casual

Try this: Spicy nduja pizza with extra garlic mayo

📍 Perfect for: Best wood-fired pizza in Dublin for casual dining

Riot Dublin (Aungier Street)

Cool and edgy with great tunes and even better cocktails. Riot Dublin is all about big sharing plates, cheesy fries, Korean wings and good times. A bit grungy, a bit glam – ideal for night owls

Try this: Loaded fries and any cocktail on the menu

📍 Best for: Late-night comfort food and drinks in Dublin

World Flavours from Every Corner

Craving something spicy, saucy or sweet? Dublin’s got you covered.

Hakkahan (Stoneybatter)

Hakkahan serves up slick, modern takes on Chinese classics. Expect top-quality dumplings, spicy noodles and crowd-pleasing bites perfect for sharing with hostel mates or a date. Small plates, big flavours.

Try this: Pork dumplings and spicy dan dan noodles

📍 Best pick for: Top-rated modern Chinese food in Dublin

China Tang (Monkstown)

More upscale, but worth every cent. China Tang offers elegant Chinese cuisine in a stunning space. Definitely one to book in advance. Instagrammable decor, top-notch service.

Try this: Peking duck or crispy chicken

📍 Ideal for: Best Chinese restaurant for a date night in Dublin

Umi Falafel (Various Locations)

A backpacker’s dream. Umi Falafel is simple, wholesome and packed with flavour. Great for vegetarians, vegans and anyone needing a break from the meat-fest. Quick, healthy, cheap – tick, tick, tick!

Try this: Palestinian falafel sandwich and a fresh mint lemonade

📍 Top choice for: Cheap vegetarian food in Dublin city centre

Kimchi Hophouse (Parnell Street)

Korean BBQ in a traditional Irish pub? Only in Dublin. Kimchi Hophouse is fun, flavourful and great value. Don’t leave without trying the bibimbap! Grab a pint while you’re at it.

Try this: Spicy wings and bulgogi bibimbap

📍 Great for: Korean restaurants in Dublin with casual atmosphere 

A Bit of Everything

Can’t decide what you want? These spots mix everything from brunch to cocktails to steak.

Balfes Dublin (Grafton Street area)

Balfes is where style meets comfort. From brunch to dinner, everything’s beautifully presented. Perfect for a day-to-night food stop in Dublin. Pop by for a cocktail if you’re not hungry.

Try this: Eggs royale or the steak sandwich

📍 Ideal for: Trendy brunch restaurants near Grafton Street 

FIRE Steakhouse (Mansion House)

A splurge, but totally worth it. FIRE Steakhouse has one of the best ambiences in Dublin for a luxury dinner out. Great steaks, rich sauces and desserts that impress. Go big before you go home.

Try this: Prime Irish fillet steak or the tomahawk to share

📍 Best for: Romantic or celebratory steak dinner in Dublin city centre 

Quick Tips for Eating Out in Dublin

  • Tipping: 10% is appreciated but not always expected.
  • Booking: Weekends = queues. Book brunch and dinner spots in advance when you can.
  • Markets: Check out Eat Yard, Temple Bar Food Market or Asia Market for snacks and street food vibes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

What are the best brunch spots in Dublin?
Brother Hubbard (Turkish eggs/shakshuka), Grove Road (breakfast burrito), Lemon Jelly Café (affordable Eggs Benedict/crepes) and Two Boys Brew (buttermilk chicken sambo).

Where can I find vegan food in Dublin?
Veginity (Korean BBQ tofu tacos), Sova Vegan Butcher (seitan steak, beetroot burger) and Cornucopia (vegan lasagne, lentil stew) offer creative plant-based dishes.

What are good cheap eats for backpackers?
Dash Burger (smash cheeseburgers), Umi Falafel (Palestinian sandwiches), Lemon Jelly Café (central budget brunch) and Temple Bar Food Market (Saturday street food).

Which spots serve traditional Irish food?
The Celt (lamb stew with soda bread + live music), O’Neill’s Pub (carvery roast beef) and The Water Bank (modern Irish chicken supreme/fish specials).

Where to get burgers and BBQ in Dublin?
Dash Burger (crispy-edged cheeseburgers), Pitt Bros (smoked brisket/ribs + free soft serve) and BoCo (wood-fired nduja pizza with garlic dip).

What are the best Chinese restaurants in Dublin?
Hakkahan (pork dumplings, dan dan noodles), China Tang (upscale Peking duck) both deliver modern takes perfect for sharing with hostel mates.

Which restaurants offer Korean food?
Kimchi Hophouse (Parnell St) serves spicy wings, bulgogi bibimbap in traditional Irish pub setting — great value casual atmosphere.

Where can I find late-night food in Dublin?
Riot Dublin (Aungier St) offers loaded fries, Korean wings till late; Bunsen, Elephant & Castle and Wowburger stay open for night owls.

What food markets should I visit?
Temple Bar Food Market (Saturdays 9:30AM-4PM at Meeting House Square), Eatyard and Asia Market for affordable street food and local snacks.

Do Dublin restaurants accommodate gluten-free diets?
Most spots offer gluten-free options — just ask your server; KC Peaches and many brunch cafés like Brother Hubbard cater well to dietary needs.

Originally posted at canbe.ie


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