Who doesn’t love a rooftop? On a sunny day, these rooftops in Dublin offer some of the most gorgeous views in the city. A couple of cocktails in hand, a delightful catch-up with a few friends over some delicious food and you’re living the dream. With the unpredictable weather in Ireland, all these spots are a safe haven from the rain, so even if things don’t go to plan, you’ll still be able to enjoy views of the city up high!
The Exchequer
Tapas and drinks are the perfect combo, and when a rooftop terrace is in the picture, it’s a no-brainer! The Exchequer in Ranelagh, headed by chef José Gomez, serves authentic, homemade Spanish tapas. Perfect for al fresco dining and summer cocktails, their open terrace upstairs is connected to their bar, so your refreshing drinks are only a few steps away. Speaking of drinks, you can guarantee that whatever you order will be top notch, with The Exchequer winning 3 best cocktail experience in Ireland awards, and 3 back to back Bacardi Legacy awards. If you’re not into cocktails, The Exchequer is also a wine bar, so you’ll be happy to know that their wine selection is top tier. On weekends, skip the tapas and give their impressive Sunday Roast a try, with a new option of a whole roasted suckling pig!
Hyde
Hyde is the spot to visit for drinks with the girls or a night on the town. Hyde is a restaurant/bar during the day, and turns into the Seek Nightclub in the evenings (get it, hide and seek?) Located in the heart of the city centre, it’s the perfect location for a memorable night out. The rooftop terrace sets the bar high (literally), serving their signature cocktails (and some of the best mocktails around!), with great tunes, stylish interiors and just overall fun vibes. Whether you’re looking for a fabulous sun spot for brunch, a cool location for dinner or some drinks and nibbles, Hyde has it all, so make sure to give them a visit.
Anantara The Marker
We can’t write an article about rooftops in Dublin without mentioning the gorgeous rooftop bar and terrace at Anantara The Marker. 360˚ views of the city, you’ll be able to see both the Irish sea and the picturesque mountains of Dublin. The perfect spot to frequent for some nibbles and drinks, head here and take in the breathtaking sunset while the longer evenings are still upon us. The drinks are nothing short of impressive, with cocktails that have stood the test of time, marking themselves as the Marker’s Classics. G&T lovers, you’ll find a dedicated menu just for you, plus a range of N/A options for the DD’s amongst us.
Layla’s
Based just outside of the city centre in Ranelagh, Layla’s is located upstairs at the Devlin Hotel. With windows surrounding the outside area, Layla’s are very much aware of the ever-changing Irish weather so diners are safe no matter the circumstances, and you can still enjoy the beautiful rooftop views in the winter, when they provide blankets and heaters! The pizza here is certainly worth ordering, coming with a range of unique toppings, and if you’re visiting for brunch, make sure to order the Italian shakshuka, it’s delicious. Layla’s is also in the same building as the Stella Theatre in Ranelagh, so it’s a great spot to visit pre- or post-movie!
NoLIta
NoLIta combines the relaxed and friendly feeling of a classic Italian eatery with the stylish glamour of a chic and modern New York bar, and their enclosed rooftop terrace brings in an airy brightness perfect for a weekend brunch catch-up with some friends. Plus, you can head out to their gorgeous garden surrounded by lush greenery to keep those good vibes going. Make sure to give their pizza a try, since their Maestro Pizzaiolo, Raffaele Brancaccio, knows a thing or two about a delicious pie – we can guarantee that you’ll be delighted with them.
TheTaste have teamed up with NoLIta to bring you an exclusive experience – brunch for two, plus a cocktail each, for only €38!
Ryleigh’s
The romantic vibes are evident at Ryleigh’s; this is certainly the spot to visit for date night. Think plush couches, candlelight, delicious drinks and top-notch service. A steakhouse at its core, the steak here is always impressive, and you can watch in awe as it all goes down in their open-style kitchen. If you manage to nab a booth by the window, the views of the city and the Liffey at night will have you dazzled. If you’re after some daylight rooftop views, head to Ryleigh’s for brunch and enjoy some steak and eggs or an eggs benny with a cocktail for good measure.
WXYZ Bar at Aloft
Located upstairs at the Aloft Hotel, the WXYZ Bar is the definition of sleek and stylish. Bites and cocktails are the aim of the game here, with views of the city centre both indoors and on their outdoor terrace. This spot is great for a catch-up with friends, with a pool table available to test your competitive side. The WXYZ Bar also regularly hosts some live music events, perfect for when you want a night out in Dublin!
Sophie’s
Located on the rooftop of The Dean Hotel on Harcourt Street, Sophie’s is a classic for wonderful views of the city, rain or shine, day or night. A menu full of classic crowd-pleasers is to be expected, like their wood-fired pizzas served for lunch, brunch and dinner. Speaking of brunch, head here for a selection of brunch favourites with their own unique twists, like avocado toast with beetroot hummus and quinoa tabouleh, or french toast and pancakes with maple syrup and bacon. Make sure to try their parmesan tarragon fries, and of course, the cocktail menu merits perusal.
TapHouse
Another Ranelagh favourite, the TapHouse offers a gorgeous sun trap (that can cover up when the inevitable rain comes by). A bar first, you’ll be impressed with the drinks selection here, serving everything from craft beers, to cocktails and wine. The food menu is particularly enticing, with smaller bites options like wings, mac and cheese arancini and spice bag fries, and larger plates like fish and chips, sliders and delicious tacos. We must note that there are plenty of plant-based options here, which is always a plus!
Gravity Bar at The Guinness Storehouse
The Guinness Storehouse is a Dublin landmark, and you can head upstairs to The Gravity Bar and take in the magnificent 360˚ views of Dublin. Did you know that the Gravity Bar is designed to look like the head of a pint glass towering above St. James’s Gate? It’s only right to order a Guinness as you enjoy the city’s view, and make sure to keep an eye out for regular events being hosted at The Gravity Bar so you can really enjoy everything this fantastic location has to offer.
Fade Street Social
Another addition to the selection of rooftops in Dublin is the stylish Fade Street Social. Open daily until late, you can get yourself a cocktail and a wood-fired flatbread and watch the world go by. From Sundays to Wednesdays you can grab 2 for 1 cocktails – you’ll be getting 2 anyway so you may as well avail of this! The terrace is open all year round, with their special Winter Garden offering diners a safe haven in the winter months where you can still enjoy their superb views, tucked away on Fade Street.
I’m a Palestinian who grew up in Cyprus and moved to Dublin in 2013, so I’ve had a mishmash of different cultures and cuisines surrounding me my whole life. I’m an avid foodie, and after realising that life as a lawyer was not for me, I studied media and became a radio host for Dublin City FM. I’m now writing for TheTaste full time, but I also have my own food blog where you can find a mixture of restaurant reviews and the occasional recipe. I talk a lot about being Palestinian; to be honest, I talk a lot in general. That’s why I did radio!
Get the Best Views in the City at These Rooftops in Dublin
