Whether you’re a full-time foodie with a large budget for eating the very best cuisines, or an average joe who just happens to be interested in chowing down on quality produce, there’s a match for every budget around the city center of Dublin. The weekend is definitely the best time to avail yourself of Dublin’s best food and drink offerings. Make a day of it, and enjoy all three meals out on the town.
Brother Hubbard — Photo courtesy of Brother Hubbard
Middle Eastern
Begin your day with a fresh and fantastic breakfast from Brother Hubbard on Capel Street - far from the usual greasy Irish breakfast. Your mouth will water just looking at the menu.
You can opt for a Middle Eastern breakfast plate, featuring a boiled egg, feta with za’atar, hummus with sumac and a fresh salad with toasted bread. Or try semolina pancakes with ricotta crème, orange and rhubarb compote and hazelnut praline.
Market
After a hearty feed, why not make a beeline for the Temple Bar Food Market in Meeting House Square? Here, a myriad of producers, cooks and farmers come to sell their wares and offer something to eat in the process. Those looking to get a handle on the type of produce Ireland has to give will enjoy the chance to chat with the people that both farm and market it. Not only that, but also you can sample their offerings and even take some home as presents.
If you’re a cheese lover, then your next stop should be Sheridans Cheesemongers on South Anne Street. This market boasts a great range of sandwiches, cheeses and accompaniments.
If you’re looking for a glass of wine to accompany your cheese board, then head next door to La Cave, a basement wine bar with a fabulous range of over 350 wines, with 30 by the glass. La Cave sources its cheese from Sheridans, so you’ll get the best of both worlds in the sumptuous surroundings.
Temple Bar Food Market — Photo courtesy of Temple Bar Food Market
International tapas
When it comes to finishing off your foodie day, it really depends on your persuasions. If you find yourself stuffed to the brim, then some smaller tapas-style dishes from places like trendy Mexican eatery 777 or the Japanese restaurant Yamamori Izakaya might suit. Both of these establishments also have excellent drinks and cocktails to boot.
Fine Dining
If, on the other hand, you’ve been waiting for a high-class end to an already delicious day, then stop in at one of the fine dining options in the city center. Explore the tasty menus at The Greenhouse, Chapter One or The Chef’s Table at The Pig’s Ear, taking things from rustic farm fare to haute cuisine with impeccable décor and details.
If you can manage to waddle home after all of these tasty endeavors, then you’ll certainly have a better understanding of Dublin’s food culture and what makes it great and diverse.
