8 of the best hidden gem restaurants in Dublin
There has never been a better time to eat in Dublin.
New restaurants are popping up all the time and old favourites keep upping their game.
Take a look at the hidden gems we’re most excited about right now (in no particular order!) and start planning your next mouth-watering meal…
1. China in a teacup
The Irish love their tea, but The Vintage Teapot takes tea appreciation one step further. This tea room is run by the people behind M&L, arguably the best Chinese restaurant in Dublin.
Whether you opt for a traditional Chinese tea or a coffee, you’ll be surrounded by beautiful furniture imported from China. Pair your beverage with sweet or savoury treats, or go for the full afternoon tea experience.
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For something really different, sign up for a dumpling workshop or a Chinese-style flower arranging class.
2. Cheese heaven
Cheese toastie aficionado? Loose Canon is the place for you. A treasure trove of cheese and wine awaits in this tiny shop.
During the day, you can nibble on the toastie of your dreams and in the evening, plates designed for sharing are on offer. Of course, there’s always a selection of interesting wines by-the-glass to choose from too.
For the best type of souvenir, take home a slab of cheese or a bottle of special wine.
3. The critics’ favourite
Since it opened a few months ago, Variety Jones has been getting rave reviews. The menu is small, but every dish is expertly executed and there’s an impressive wine list to match.
With pickled ingredients, fire-charred flavours and unusual combinations, this is the kind of place that excites real foodies. If you have your heart set on trying it for yourself, make sure to book in advance.
4. Neighbourhood gem
A little out of the city centre, East Road is a fantastic place for brunch, lunch or tea.
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It’s a casual, friendly, no-fuss spot where you’ll find simple food made really well. At under €6, the daily Hot Pot is one of the best value meals in the city. But we’re really in love with the wonderful cakes. Try the gigantic salted caramel cinnamon bun, if they’re not sold out.
5. Perfect pizza
Pizza and beer is a dynamite combination. Coke Lane Pizza knows that well. That’s why you can find it in two different Dublin watering holes – Frank Ryan’s pub in Smithfield and Lucky’s in the Liberties.
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The brainchild of a former scientist, all these pizzas are made on a moreish sourdough base. Vegetarians are well catered for, as half the menu is meat-free or vegan.
6. Classic Italian with a twist
Grano is one of the most in-demand Italian restaurants in the city at the moment. Using organic ingredients from small Italian food and wine producers, this Stoneybatter restaurant whips up its own take on classic dishes.
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The early bird menu very popular for good reason, but our tip is to book even earlier in the day. Lunch is served 12pm-3pm on Thursdays and Fridays and is just €12 for two unforgettable courses.
7. Coastal container cafe
Bull Island is a great place for a seaside walk and has incredible views of Dublin Bay. Plus if the tide is right and the weather isn’t too cold, you can take a dip just off the Bull Wall.
Happy Out makes this an even more appealing day trip destination. This tiny cafe is in a shipping container right on the Bull Wall. Grab a hand-warming coffee at the start of your walk and reward yourself with a brownie on the way back.
8. Spectacular Spanish
Spanish food is surprisingly popular in Dublin, but Uno Mas sets itself slightly apart from the crowd. This restaurant elevates the usual tapas fare to a whole other level.
It’s pricier than some of its rivals, but once you take a mouthful, you’ll understand why. Simple dishes like the potato and onion tortilla showcase the best quality ingredients, while the mains are presented like works of art. Try to save room for dessert, especially the salt caramel ice cream and espresso granita.
Main image photo credit: Coke Lane Pizza
