The 10 best restaurants in Dublin for a memorable meal out

The charming, bistro design at Lottie's will make you feel right at home. Credit: Lottie’s
A wall table set with glasses at Lottie's, one of the best restaurants in Dublin.

Eating out in Dublin is always exciting, with so many great restaurants to try. From award-winning gems to casual bistros and glamorous hotspots, the best restaurants in Dublin promise some memorable meals. The capital is home to a great food culture, with lots of focus on seasonal and regional produce, as well as sustainable agriculture. Meanwhile, Dublin’s nearby coastal regions make it an amazing city to eat local seafood or sample fresh shellfish. 

A stylish Dublin steakhouse serving prime cuts of meat and decadent lobster is perfect if you’re looking for premium produce and hearty mains. For international cuisine, you can’t go wrong with a Chinese restaurant that serves whole roasted duck, made using traditional Asian cooking techniques. As for date night, that’s taken care of with a glass-walled, top-floor eatery that offers spectacular views over Dublin city.

These are Dublin’s best restaurants that you need to try ASAP. Don’t miss out on a spot – read on for a guide of the 10 best restaurants in Dublin and book your table on OpenTable now.

The best restaurants in Dublin for an outstanding meal out – read on to get the lowdown

For one of the best fine dining restaurants in Dublin with a MICHELIN star – try D’Olier Street in Temple Bar

The restaurant dining room at D’Olier Street, one of the best fine dining restaurants in Dublin.
The simple decor at D’Olier Street showcases the restaurant’s understated elegance. Credit: D’Olier Street

Located on the ground floor of the historic D’Olier Chambers building, in bustling Temple Bar neighbourhood, D’Olier Street is one of the best restaurants in Dublin for diners looking for an exceptional fine dining experience. Managed by an international team of experienced chefs and restaurateurs, D’Olier Street has been awarded one MICHELIN star and offers a 12-course tasting menu paired with five carefully selected wines. The menu offers up a vibrant mix of modern European cuisine and global influences. Diners here start their meal with delicacies like cured Hamachi yellowtail and smoked eel with kimchi and foie gras custard with pineapple. Main dishes include octopus and lobster in yuzu kosho chilli sauce and cod with basil, while wine tasting options include vintages from the Loire Valley and Burgundy. The atmosphere at D’Olier Street is warm and welcoming, with the dining room featuring works by local artists, making it the perfect spot for a celebratory meal or special occasion.

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For fresh Irish produce at one of Dublin’s best steakhouses – don’t miss FIRE Steakhouse and Bar on Dawson Street

The terrace overlooking the gardens and fountain at FIRE Steakhouse & Bar, one of the best restaurants in south Dublin.
The enclosed dining terrace at FIRE Steakhouse & Bar overlooks a stunning garden. Credit: FIRE Steakhouse & Bar
A rack of lamb at FIRE Steakhouse & Bar, one of South Dublin’s best restaurants.
Succulent woodfire-roasted lamb is one of the grill specialities at FIRE Steakhouse & Bar. Credit: FIRE Steakhouse & Bar
A cocktail in a decorative glass and a whisky bottle at FIRE Steakhouse & Bar, one of the best restaurants in Dublin city.
Signature cocktails made with premium spirits make the perfect accompaniment to your steak at FIRE Steakhouse & Bar. Credit: FIRE Steakhouse & Bar

Serving juicy steaks and locally sourced produce, FIRE Steakhouse and Bar on Dawson Street is one of the best restaurants in Dublin for meat lovers and serious foodies. The restaurant is located inside a historic Dublin building and has stunningly grand interior design, as well as an all-weather terrace overlooking a beautiful, enclosed garden. The kitchen team sources the meat from local Irish Hereford prime beef farmers and specialises in cooking meat and seafood on the grill. Popular menu items at FIRE include the 100oz rib eye steak and the rack of woodfire-roasted lamb served with potatoes and honey-glazed veg. You can also start your meal with a dozen local oysters or Irish potted crab and crayfish, while the bar serves a great range of signature cocktails and premium wines.

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For a sumptuous Chinese feast at one of the best restaurants in Dublin – visit Mama Yo in Camden Street

The wooden ceiling dining room and indoor trees at Mama Yo, one of the best restaurants Dublin 2.
Wooden decor and indoor trees give Mama Yo a relaxing, organic feel. Credit: Mama Yo
Chinese paintings on the wall at Mama Yo, one of Dublin’s best restaurants.
The ornate Chinese decor at Mama Yo gives the dining room a warm, traditional vibe. Credit: Mama Yo
A diner eating with chopsticks at Mama Yo.
Light bites inspired by traditional Asian cuisine are perfect to share at Mama Yo. Credit: Mama Yo

The magical dining room and luxurious Chinese menu at Mama Yo on Camden Street marks it out as one of the best restaurants in Dublin for a get-together with friends. Chinese artworks line the walls and add to the exotic feel, while several large trees grow on the restaurant floor, making it seem as if you’re dining outdoors. Mama Yo’s menu, meanwhile, offers an appetising blend of historic and contemporary dishes, all while incorporating ancient cooking techniques. One of the most impressive dishes at Mama Yo is the whole roast duck, which is slow-cooked to perfection in a traditional Chinese duck oven and must be pre-ordered 48 hours in advance. Light bites, like the pork soup dumplings or the lotus buns filled with tempura soft shell crab, are also popular choices. An alcoholic boba milk cocktail is a unique drink option, while the lively atmosphere makes Mama Yo the perfect spot for groups.

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For a stellar Sunday roast at one of the best restaurants in south Dublin – head to Hawksmoor Dublin on Dame Street

Pigs-in-blankets and brussels sprouts at Hawksmoor Dublin, one of the best food restaurants in Dublin.
The Sunday roast with all the trimmings is a menu highlight at Hawksmoor Dublin. Credit: Hawksmoor Dublin
Steak sharing platters at Hawksmoor Dublin, one of Dublin’s best restaurants.
Hawksmoor Dublin specialises in serving premium, locally-reared beef cuts. Credit: Hawksmoor Dublin
The high-ceilinged elegant dining room at Hawksmoor Dublin.
The elegant dining room at Hawksmoor Dublin makes it an ideal spot for a special occasion. Credit: Hawksmoor Dublin

Hawksmoor on Dame Street is a stylish steakhouse and cocktail bar serving one of the best Sunday roasts in Dublin. Specialising in high-quality, locally-reared beef, the menu includes hearty prime cuts like chateaubriand and porterhouse steaks, while the popular Sunday roast is made with dry-aged rump beef and served with all the trimmings. If you really want to push the boat out, try the Dublin Lawyer – a whole lobster served in a cream and leek whisky sauce. Hawksmoor Dublin’s cocktail menu is carefully curated by expert mixologists and features a range of signature drinks made with Irish whisky. The Ulla la Highball cocktail blends Tullamore malt with Irish cider and lemon soda, while the ultimate steakhouse martini mixes vodka, chardonnay and olive brine for a sophisticated twist on a classic. The lavish yet elegant decor and business casual dress code make this a great spot for a fancy lunch.

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For relaxed, stylish dining at one of Dublin’s best restaurants – try Lottie’s in Rathmines

A table for two with glasses of red wine at Lottie’s, one of the best fine dining restaurants in Dublin.
Charming bistro-style interiors makes Lottie’s ideal for a relaxed, intimate meal. Credit: Lottie’s
Diners enjoying steaks at Lottie’s, one of the best lunch restaurants in Dublin.
Lottie’s showcases fresh Irish produce with a menu of simple yet satisfying dishes. Credit: Lottie’s
A sliced steak with herb sauce and potatoes at Lottie’s, one of the best restaurants in Dublin Ireland.
Premium quality meat elevates rustic, brasserie-style plates at Lottie’s. Credit: Lottie’s

With its laid-back, brasserie-style aesthetic and focus on seasonal Irish produce, Lottie’s in Rathmines is one of the best restaurants in Dublin for a relaxed meal out. The restaurant was awarded a Bib Gourmand mention in the MICHELIN guide 2024, which praised Lottie’s for its simple, home-style food. As well as the downstairs dining room, Lottie’s also has a comfy upstairs cocktail lounge – open at weekends – where you can sip an aperitif or enjoy a cocktail after your meal. Elegant starter dishes include a warming bowl of chicken and fermented wheat broth served with sourdough or soy-glazed pork belly. The mains are made up of bistro-style dishes, like bavette steak with red wine jus or confit duck. Make sure you save room for dessert so you can tuck into the dark chocolate tart with sea salt ice cream. The casual, welcoming feel here is perfect for an intimate lunch or a relaxed weekend meal.

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For mouth-watering seafood at one of the best restaurants in Dublin city – try SOLE Seafood & Grill on South William Street

A shellfish platter on crushed ice at SOLE Seafood & Grill, one of the best restaurants in Dublin for seafood.
The decadent seafood towers at SOLE Seafood & Grill are perfect for sharing. Credit: SOLE Seafood & Grill
A whole lobster and shellfish platter at SOLE Seafood & Grill, one of the best restaurants in south Dublin.
Locally sourced shellfish ensures premium quality dining at SOLE Seafood & Grill. Credit: SOLE Seafood & Grill
The fresh fish counter and wine bar at SOLE Seafood & Grill, one of Dublin’s best seafood restaurants.
The stunning décor gives SOLE Seafood & Grill a truly unique look. Credit: SOLE Seafood & Grill

SOLE Seafood & Grill on South William Street specialises in Irish seafood and is one of the best restaurants in Dublin for fresh, sustainably-sourced fish and shellfish. The menu is classic and simple and relies on high-quality ingredients to create an unforgettable dining experience. Diners can either opt for a six-course tasting menu or try dishes from the à la carte list. Start your meal with West Cork mussels cooked in a white wine and cream sauce or local oysters. For an exceptional seafood feast, diners can order the captain seafood tower, which serves two as a main and comes with hot smoked salmon, grilled lobster, brown crab claws, Dublin Bay prawns and more. A juicy fillet steak is perfect if you’ve got meat lovers in your party. Complement your meal with a bottle of French wine and soak up the elegant atmosphere and chic decor.

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For elegant French food at one of Dublin’s best fine-dining restaurants – visit Pichet off Dame Street

Plates of meat and vegetables at Pichet, one of Dublin’s best fine dining restaurants.
The sophisticated menu at Pichet is inspired by French cuisine and Irish produce. Credit: Pichet
A table spread with plates and a bottle of red wine at Pichet, one of Dublin’s best bistros.
The wine cellar at Pichet includes a range of European vintages. Credit: Pichet
The red exterior sign and window awnings at Pichet.
Pichet’s charming décor gives a nod to French bistro culture. Credit: Pichet

Inspired by classic French bistros, Pichet is one of Dublin’s best restaurants for celebrating special occasions. The main dining room is simply designed and effortlessly elegant, with an open kitchen that allows diners to see the chefs at work. Pichet is well-known for its charming atmosphere as well as for its award-winning French and Irish menu, which saw it land a MICHELIN Bib Gourmand for 2024. Kick your meal off with a selection of appetising starters, like Irish mussels in butter broth or mushroom soup. Popular mains include the roasted halibut with lightly curried velouté and mussels or the glazed venison shoulder. The wine list features an eclectic range of vintages from Europe, including less well-known wine-producing areas like Portugal and the Czech Republic – perfect if you want to sample a unique bottle with your meal.

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For breath-taking views at one of the best restaurants in Dublin city centre – don’t miss Sophie’s @ The Dean in South City Centre

A risotto with shaved cheese and a wine bottle at Sophie’s @ The Dean, one of the best restaurants in Dublin city centre.
The European fusion menu offers plenty of variety at Sophie’s @ The Dean. Credit: Sophie’s @ The Dean
Two cocktails with garnishes at Sophie’s @ The Dean, one of the best restaurants in central Dublin.
Sipping on mouth-watering cocktails is the ideal way to enjoy the view at Sophie’s @ The Dean. Credit: Sophie’s @ The Dean
The glass-walled dining room at Sophie’s @ The Dean in Dublin city.
The spectacular glass-walled dining room at Sophie’s @ The Dean offers unforgettable city views. Credit: Sophie’s @ The Dean

Pay a visit to Sophie’s @ The Dean in South City Centre and you’ll immediately notice the incredible views from the restaurants. Both venues have top-floor locations and glass-walled dining rooms that offer panoramic vistas of the city. The menu at the Dublin venue is a fusion of European and global cuisine, while Sophie’s @ The Dean Cork also serves an Italian pizza menu. A whipped brie starter served with prosciutto, figs and candied walnuts is a truly luxurious way to open your meal. Meanwhile, decadent mains include vegan penne puttanesca with olives, capers and artichoke and pan-fried sea bream with white bean and sausage casserole. A refreshing pear vodka and peach liquor cocktail is perfect to sip on while you take in the view. The interiors are comfy and modern, making Sophie’s a great place to relax and enjoy lunch with friends.

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For fun, lavish settings and high-end dining – visit The Ivy Dawson Street on Dawson Street

Booths with gold framed hanging lights and pot plants at The Ivy Dawson, one of south Dublin’s best restaurants.
The colourful dining room at The Ivy Dawson uses bold patterns and pot plants to create a vibrant feel. Credit: The Ivy Dawson
A waiter pouring rose wine for diners at The Ivy Dawson.
The Ivy Dawson serves luxurious meals that are great for special occasions. Credit: The Ivy Dawson
Diners drinking white wine and eating scallops at The Ivy Dawson, one of the best lunch restaurants in Dublin.
Sip on signature cocktails or sample fine wines at The Ivy Dawson. Credit: The Ivy Dawson

The Ivy is known for its extravagant, Art Nouveau-inspired decor, as well as for serving decadent yet satisfying food. The Ivy Dawson Street focuses on Irish cuisine and is one of the best restaurants in Dublin for a lavish meal out. Start your experience with Cork crab and avocado on crispbread or try the crispy duck salad. The scallop and squid ink linguine is an ideal main if you want to treat yourself. Riffing on its vintage glamour theme, the bar at The Ivy Dawson Street also serves a range of classic cocktails with a twist. The salted caramel espresso martini will satisfy your sweet tooth, while the Irish cream coffee is a perfect pick-me-up. Located across several floors – all with a unique design concept – the Ivy Dawson Street has the feel of a stylish cocktail bar and a trendy restaurant hotspot rolled into one.

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For traditional tapas at one of the best restaurants in Dublin – try The Port House in Portobello 

Tables with candles and a wine shelf at The Port House Dublin, one of the best places to eat in Dublin.
Exposed brick décor and a cosy taverna feel complements delicious tapas at The Port House. Credit: The Port House

The Port House, in Portobello, has the warm feel of a Spanish taverna and is one of the best restaurants in Dublin for traditional tapas. It’s an ideal spot to visit with a group of friends or for a casual date night. Small plates and tapas dishes are perfect for sharing, giving the Port House a lively, continental feel. Choose from delicious meat, seafood and vegetarian tapas dishes wuch as the chicken with piquillo pepper and the smoked salmon on toast. The Port House also serves a wide selection of Spanish and Portuguese wines and a range of classic white wine spritzers made with fragrant amaro liquors like vermouth and Aperol. You can also order a pitcher of sangria – perfect for celebrating with friends or sharing on a romantic evening.

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Dublin’s restaurant scene is truly on the up, with incredible new places to eat opening all the time. Whether you want to sample first-class seasonal Irish produce, share small plates with friends or try the best in Dublin fine dining, these restaurants all have something different to offer. These 10 of the best restaurants in Dublin are just a taste of what’s on offer in Ireland’s cosmopolitan capital.

These Dublin hotspots always draw a crowd. Make sure you nab a seat – book your table on OpenTable now.

Want to find more great places to eat in Dublin? Check out these handy city guides:

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