Just a few decades ago, the idea of a foodie scene in Ireland might just have gotten you laughed at. Foodie? Sounds like notions! We are a nation of plain meat, veg and a few spuds!
But the truth is, Ireland – for all its culinary simplicity – has always had a great love and respect for excellent fresh produce, well put together. As soon as our economy took a turn for the better in the 90s when the Celtic Tiger was a young cub and people had a little more disposable income to spend eating out, our food scene flourished.
Today we are renowned for it, and Dublin has become a favoured foodie destination. Bold and exciting chefs and restaurateurs are bringing life to Irish produce in wonderful ways, and often at incredibly affordable price points.
Of course, we do have our Michelin-starred establishments for those who want a more formal dining experience, but if you want a different kind of tasting experience, make sure to wander around some of the city’s marvelous markets. Here are 6 of the city’s best markets for munching:
This is one of Dublin’s largest and longest-running open-air food markets. Tucked away in Meeting House Square in the heart of the bustling and historic Temple Bar area of the city centre, the market is a colourful and fragrant hodgepodge of stalls selling fresh farm produce, delicious little cakes and treats, gourmet street food and snacks, artisanal cheeses and breads, and even some delicious fresh oysters. You can find healthy and delicious organic raw food treats that might not sound like the most appetising thing you could try but may just surprise you (try the crispy kale chips!). At the other end of the spectrum, you could go for a market favourite; a big, hearty Paddy Jack sandwich that will easily fuel a day walking around the city.
In the Bluebell Business Centre just off the Old Naas Road, just 20 minutes from the city centre by Luas, the Green Door Market is open from Thursday to Sunday every week (opening times vary by day). It’s a gorgeous little market with a friendly, community-centred vibe and lots of lovely people selling their produce or services, from cabbages to clothing alterations. The food here is great - if it’s a sunny or warm day, we recommend stocking up on some picnic treats and heading off for some outdoor dining. You’ll find delicious deli meats and artisan cheeses, Italian antipasti ingredients, beautiful fresh loaves of bread and much more, for an al fresco feast fit for a king. But if you don’t have the time (or the weather) for that, there are lots of places to grab a bite here too - we particularly love the crepes from Classic Crepe.
The Irish Village Markets is a mobile pop-up market that you can find in different spots around the city from Spencer Dock to Stillorgan, depending on the day - check out their Instagram for times and locations. Whether you’re popping out of the office for a quick bite, or you want to spend some time browsing the stalls and trying a few different things, you couldn’t find a better spot. They only work with the very best vendors, and there’s an incredible selection of international flavours from Braii to Mexican bean burgers so that whatever you’re craving, and whatever your dietary requirements, you’ll find the flavour you want.
Another great reason to hop on the DART and head to Howth. The food market here is a Dublin institution, so much so that it became a permanent fixture in 2013. Here you’ll find up to 25 different stalls selling all sorts of delicious artisanal produce, as well as crafts, art and jewelry. Of course, Howth is famous for its seafood and the market is a fantastic spot for seafood fans to get a taste of some fresh fish and shellfish. If you’re not such a fan of fish, try one of the famous Howth Market hot dogs made with 100% Irish sausage. If you have the time, why not explore some of the local pubs in Howth too, where the Guinness is so good they’ve even got an annual Guinness and Oyster festival!
Tried Howth already? Why not hop on the DART in a different direction? Every Sunday, traders of taste descend on the LexIcon Library in Dun Laoghaire to peddle their delicious wares. You’ll find all the organic and small farm produce you could want, as well as a selection of absolutely sublime lunches and munches from stalls selling everything from sandwiches or hot meals to ice cream and handmade chocolates. When you’ve had your fill, you can wander the rest of the stalls to see the fabulous range of arts and crafts being sold by local and independent artists.
Every Saturday from March through to Christmas, the lovely Bushy Park in Terenure comes alive as the market draws shoppers and eaters from near and far. Foodies love this one, with stalls offering an absolute smorgasbord of savoury and sweet tastes. Lindough’s pizza is a big favourite at this market, but you’ll find delicious sausage rolls, burgers, salads, sandwiches, toasties, fish and chips, and more indulgent desserts and sweet treats than you can handle. The only downside to this market is that it’s so popular there’s usually a little bit of a queue at the stalls, but we promise it’s well worth the wait!
These food markets will have your mouth watering, Dublin is a wonderful city offering the best attractions around. Take the Luas and enjoy Dublin beer tasting during a brewery tour in the Guinness Storehouse.
UNIQUE CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS
As the big day draws closer, the pressure to find the perfect gift does too. As you prepare festive treats and deck the halls, finding unique gifts in Dublin is one thing you don’t have to stress over. The city is full of gems where you can pick up the perfect presents for loved ones – you just need to know where to look. Whatever your shopping needs, we’ve picked out some of the best spots in Dublin to find the perfect present for every taste.
WALK IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF ARTHUR GUINNESS ON A NEW BREWERY EXPERIENCE
It’s no secret that Guinness is steeped in history and tradition. But how familiar are you with the origins of the black stuff? During a new one-of-a-kind experience, you have the chance to step back in time and explore the rich legacy that made Guinness what it is today.
The Gravity Bar
The Gravity Bar is an iconic spot that offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the city, while you savour a pint of the world-renowned Guinness stout. This unique space, enveloped in glass and steel, tells a story of innovation, tradition, and a deep love for beer that started with Arthur Guinness in 1759.
What to do in Dublin?
With so many attractions and activities, how do you choose what to do in Dublin? We’ve used our insider knowledge to put together a list of 15 other top spots around the city we think you really must visit.