It’s no secret that Dublin 8 is one of the most buzzing spots for impressive restaurants in the city. An astounding number of Dublin’s Michelin-starred, Bib Gourmand and Michelin Guide restaurants are based in Dublin 8, not to mention some cosy neighbourhood spots, so if you’re in the area, you’ll certainly leave with a happy tummy and meal to remember. Here are some of the best restaurants in Dublin 8.
Spitalfields
Awarded a Bib Gourmand by the Michelin Guide, Spitalfields is a cosy pub serving classic dishes known and loved by the people of Dublin. Dishes like the Cais na Tire fondue with aged balsamic & truffle toast or the beef cheek & ox tail parker house roll with bone marrow gravy bring diners from all around the city to this charming spot. Their côte de boeuf is a must-try if you’re hungry, and of course, you can’t visit Spitalfields without giving their drinks menu a peruse.
Variety Jones
Dublin 8 is home to a Michelin-starred restaurant, Variety Jones. A small but mighty spot, chef and owner Keelan Higgs has created a well-loved and highly sought after restaurant, where unique yet unfussy dishes are served, most of which are cooked over an open fire. A 6 course chef’s choice menu is on offer and the menu is ever-changing, with dishes as simple as a spaghetti Alfredo, or as original as a duck liver parfait with figs, brandy snap and a potato waffle. With a monthly changing, mostly organic wine list on offer, Variety Jones is a must-add to your list.
Fayrouz
Middle Eastern food is always a good idea, especially when it’s authentic, fresh, and… served on a spit for you to carve yourself! Fayrouz serves Lebanese food with a modern twist, with their menu including favourites like falafel, hummus, and the aforementioned shawarma that is served on a mini spit for a truly authentic experience. If you’re after trying a little bit of everything, order one of their Mezze options. Before you go, make sure to finish off with their Qatayif – a dough that is similar to pancakes is stuffed with either cheese, cream or pistachios and shaped into a crescent, deep fried and drenched in syrup. They are decadent, indulgent, and oh-so delicious, perfectly paired with a cup of strong Arabic coffee.
Bar Pez
Drinks and small plates with a focus on seafood – that’s the aim of the game at Bar Pez. Sister restaurant to the Fish Shop and the Beach House, Bar Pez is a relatively new addition to the restaurants in Dublin 8, but it is a mighty one. A simple bar menu is up for grabs at the moment until they open back up their extended kitchen menu; you’ll find fresh Kelly’s oysters and crab on toast to pair with a glass (or two) from their extensive wine menu – they are a wine bar after all!
Locks
Dublin 8 is clearly a popular spot for the Michelin Guide, and Locks is just another addition to that list. Overlooking the canal, this neighbourhood restaurant houses one of the more charming dining rooms in the city, with a private dining room available for hire. Modern, seasonal dishes are served here, with options like pigs head croquettes, Castletownbere scallops served with Delicia pumpkin and kombu hollandaise, and a decadent Hannan’s 60-day aged Delmonico steak with bordelaise sauce and tempura leek. An impressive wine menu warrants a glass or two to pair with your delicious meal as you gaze upon the beautiful views of the canal.
I Monelli
An authentic Italian restaurant overlooking the canal, I Monelli is one to visit for the ultimate cosy vibes and a memorable meal guaranteed. Paying tribute to chef-owner Ivano’s grandmother’s kitchen, from which he took his cooking inspiration, you’ll find Italian classics like Bruschetta and Burrata, and a range of comforting pasta dishes such as beef cannelloni, four cheese risotto and Melanze alla Parmigiana. A vegan menu is also available here, so nobody is left out of the picture! Their wine menu is dedicated to a range of Italian wines, perfect to pair with a warming pasta dish of your choosing.
Bastible
Yet another Michelin-starred spot added to the many restaurants in Dublin 8, Bastible is the definition of food for the soul, made from the heart. Modern Irish dishes are taken to another level at this vibrant neighbourhood restaurant, with dishes such as Curragh lamb with preserved ramson, green beans and turnip, or cured scallop with sorrel and fermented chilli. A tasting menu is served here, coming in at €90 per person, and although their wine menu is concise, it is mighty. Finishing off with a bang, their desserts are simple but memorable, leaving you with a delightful end to what will surely be a stand-out meal at Bastible.
Sprezzatura
Everyone’s tried and true pasta spot, Sprezzatura has somewhat of a cult following, and for good reason. Designed to serve smaller portions so diners can share, this is certainly the spot to frequent if you find yourself wanting to try a little bit of everything on a menu. Their arancini are a must-order, as well as their cheesy, gooey fonduta, paired with Tartine sourdough for the ultimate bread-and-cheese combo. They are also now open for brunch (think truffle yogurt eggs and arrabiata baked eggs), so you can get more Sprezzatura all week long. Order a glass (or two) of one of their many wines on tap, and delight in what is sure to be a wonderful visit.
Brother Hubbard
A brunch spot that must be tried, Brother Hubbard serve Mediterranean-inspired brunch and lunch dishes, with their very own unique twists and turns. Their eggs Menemen topped with spiced tomato-çeymen paste and feta yoghurt are delicious, as well as their Mezze trays (both meaty and vegan), and their Croque Madame. The treats here are absolutely delectable, ranging from just a classic brownie (simple but delectable), to a chocolate and hazelnut babka, and so much more. On the weekends, you can head to Brother Hubbard for a brunch and bubbles meal, where a Mimosa or glass of Rosita plus a main course comes to only €21 – get booking!
Konkan
Award-winning Indian food with all the comforting, cosy classics? Sign us up! Konkan has been in Dublin for almost 20 years, serving the much-loved classic South Indian dishes we all know and love, including butter chicken and chicken biryani. Their menu is full of options that will satisfy your entire party, including fish and vegetarian dishes like prawn jalfrezi and palak paneer. All their spice masalas, yogurts and paneer are made in house, maintaining the authenticity and special taste that diners always return to Konkan for.
Clanbrassil House
From the team behind Bastible, Clanbrassil House serve seasonal Irish produce with their own, unique touch. Featured in the Michelin Guide, this is no ordinary meal and certainly worth a visit. An à la carte menu is available on Thursdays and Fridays, with a short tasting menu available on Saturday evenings, and they are inclusive enough to include a vegetarian tasting menu, so our veggie friends are never left out. Coming in at €70 per person, you will always be able to get a taste of their famous fermented potato bread, in addition to some enticing dishes like a Thornhill duck leg croquette with walnut ketchup, or violin courgettes with a sweetcorn pancake, girolles and lovage for the vegetarians. If you’re after testing this spot out on a budget, head here for their Saturday lunch menu, which still includes the majority of their evening menu dishes. A starter and main, or main and desserts, comes in at just €35, with all 3 courses coming in at a very reasonable €40.
Kari
Sister restaurant to Konkan, Kari is a relatively new restaurant in Dublin, bringing popular Indian flavours to Inchicore. You will find some classic south-Indian dishes like chicken makhani, but Kari also has a range of options you may not have heard of, but you will most certainly get addicted to. Dishes like the Shami kebab, the Kali Mirch tandoori prawns, and lamb Jardaloo Boti are catching our eye… booking a table as we speak!
Gaillot et Gray
You may not think of the French when it comes to pizza, but after you try a slice from Gaillot et Gray, think again! What began as a food truck in France during the recession, turned into one of the many impressive restaurants in Dublin 8. Serving wood fired pizzas, rustic breads and tasty treats, Gaillot et Gray is a tried and true restaurant that will always hit the spot. Expect craft beers and delicious wines here too, because why not?
Bibi’s
A brunch spot with a small but tempting menu, Bibi’s is the epitome of wholesome. Famous for their Turkish eggs, these come with divine herby green sauce that elevates this dish even further, and paired with their crispy sourdough? A win. Their squash eggs (pictured above) are equally as delicious, with their chilli oil packing a mild punch. Their coffee is also a must-try, and of course, you’ll have to get a pastry on your way out, just to make sure they’re as irresistible as we tell you! They also have another location by the sea in Dun Laoghaire – a Bibi’s is never far…
Alma
An Argentinian café at its core, at Alma you’ll find some brunch favourites with their own Argentinian twist that elevates their dishes that much more. You won’t find just a stack of regular pancakes – oh no, you’ll find them drizzled with their indulgent dulce de leche and topped with a brandy & orange mascarpone. They also serve choripan, an Argentinian sausage on sourdough, topped with a range of tangy salsas and sauces to create a medley that is unbeatable. The pastries, especially the cinnamon roll, are also a must-try. Count yourself lucky if you manage to nab an outdoor spot on a sunny day – it’s the best seat in the house!
The Fumbally
A jack of all trades, The Fumbally is a café, a shop, and an event space all in one. All about hearty dishes, good coffee and rustic vibes, this is certainly the spot to visit when you just want to chill and have a lovely catch up with a friend. If you love a bit of fermented food, you must give their kimchi and kraut a try, and of course, the Fumbally eggs aren’t called that for no reason – give them a try and thank us later.
Hen’s Teeth
A spot known for their creative small plates, refreshing drinks and cocktails, and a guaranteed good buzz. The Hen’s Teeth have recently began to increase the number of events hosted at their location, with everything from cooking events (hello, dinner cooked by the one and only Kellis!) with DJs entertaining all night, to art exhibitions, and everything in between. If you’re after a simple dinner and drinks, they’re open on Saturdays for the usual, but keep an eye on their social media for updates on their exciting line-up of events over the coming months that you won’t want to miss.
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!
