There’s nothing that warms you up on a grey Dublin day quite like a hot bowl of Irish stew. Trust me, I’ve tried plenty best places for Irish stew in Dublin to know. From late-night dinners around Trinity College to Friday evenings wandering Temple Bar with friends, Irish stew has always been my comfort food of choice.
Lately, I realized I’ve tasted so many bowls across the city that I could almost write a book about them. Instead, I thought I’d share my favorite spots for the best Irish stew in Dublin so you can find your own favorite, too.
From traditional pubs filled with history to lively places where you can enjoy your meal with a pint and live music, this list has something for everyone.
Where to Find the Best Irish Stew in Dublin: Top 10 Spots
The Temple Bar Pub
If you’re searching for the best Irish stew in Dublin, you will find it right in the heart of the action at The Temple Bar Pub. This place is a true icon, known for its lively atmosphere and a massive 4.6-star rating from more than 38,000 Google reviews.
The vibe here is always buzzing. You get live music every night, classic pub decor, and a friendly mix of locals and tourists, all soaking up the fun. It can get busy, but that’s part of the experience. Even though it’s popular with visitors, you’ll be glad you stopped by.
The Irish stew is everything you hope for—rich, tender, and full of flavor. It’s the perfect meal on a cold night, especially when you pair it with a pint of Caskmates IPA. The Smoked Salmon & Trout Plate is also worth a try if you want something lighter.
It’s wheelchair accessible and family-friendly, with high chairs for kids. There’s even Temple Bar’s only licensed garden out back. With live music, happy hour drinks, and quick service, it’s a great place to experience Dublin’s famous pub culture. Expect to spend around €10–20 per person. To book a table or check the live music schedule, you can call them at +353 1 672 5286. Of course, you can also just show up and join the fun.
The Brazen Head
If you want your Irish stew with a side of history, The Brazen Head is the place to go. This is Ireland’s oldest pub, going back to the 12th century, and it is a must-visit with a 4.5-star rating from almost 19,000 Google reviews.
Whenever I’m in Dublin, I make sure to come back here. The Guinness Irish Stew is the star of the menu, with slow-cooked mutton, potatoes, and root vegetables in a thick Guinness broth. It’s hearty, comforting, and tastes like something straight from your grandmother’s kitchen. I’ve also tried the Atlantic Seafood Chowder and Beef Stew, both excellent, and I was glad to see a vegetarian stew option on the menu, which is rare in traditional pubs.
The Brazen Head is made up of several cozy rooms, with live music every night and an open fire to keep you warm. The walls are covered in old photos and memorabilia, which adds to the authentic Irish pub vibe. It’s family-friendly, wheelchair accessible, and always welcoming. The service is warm, the pints are fresh, and there’s a great buzz without feeling too crowded.
Plan to spend €20–30 per person, and the Guinness Irish Stew is absolutely worth it. You can book through their website or by calling +353 1 679 5186. If you are on the hunt for the best places for Irish stew in Dublin, make sure not to miss this spot.
The Old Storehouse Bar and Restaurant
When you’re on the hunt for the best Irish stew in Dublin, it’s hard to top The Old Storehouse in Temple Bar. With a strong 4.6 rating from more than 8,000 Google reviews and a 4.5 on TripAdvisor, it’s clear why people keep coming back. The place delivers real Irish food, live music every night, and a lively, classic pub atmosphere.
I visited for dinner and went straight for the Irish Lamb Stew. It was exactly what I was hoping for: well-seasoned, packed with tender, lean lamb, and hearty enough to satisfy any appetite. The Irish Beef Casserole was also a highlight, full of flavor and served in a rich, savory broth. Even the Seafood Chowder stood out, though the prawns in batter were the only thing that didn’t completely wow me.
The Old Storehouse itself is a lot of fun. You’ll find live music, singing guitar players, and even the occasional bit of river dancing. The pub is big and always buzzing, but it still feels cozy with its original Victorian details tucked throughout the building. It’s wheelchair accessible and family-friendly, offering free Wi-Fi, a veggie option, and a kids’ menu with high chairs. This makes it a great pick for groups.
Expect to pay around €20 to €30 per person for a good meal. If you want to book a table or ask about live music, you can call them at +353 1 607 4003 or reserve through their website.
O’Neills Pub & Kitchen
If you’re after a proper, hearty bowl of the best Irish stew in Dublin, O’Neills Pub & Kitchen on Suffolk Street is a must-visit. It sits right beside the famous Molly Malone statue, drawing a crowd with its genuine Irish atmosphere and a solid 4.2 rating from more than 8,000 Google reviews.
This was our first meal in Dublin and it set the bar high. The Traditional Irish Stew was everything you want: generous, tender, perfectly seasoned, and filling enough to keep you going all day. The Guinness Stew, Cottage Pie, and Tomato Soup also stood out. The whole experience is easy-going with a self-service setup—just order at the bar, grab a number, and your food arrives at your table.
I loved the vibe here. The pub has classic wooden beams, good music, and lots of seating upstairs with views of the street. Service was quick and friendly, and I appreciated the clear allergen info at the bottom of the menu, making it easy for anyone with dietary needs. O’Neills is wheelchair accessible and family-friendly, offering high chairs and changing stations as well.
You can expect to pay about €10 to €20 per person, which is a great deal for the amount of food you get. For a straightforward, quality, and authentic Irish meal, O’Neills remains one of Dublin’s top spots for Irish stew. Book a table on their website or call +353 1 679 3656 if you want to plan ahead.
The Hairy Lemon
If you’re looking for a pub packed with real character and a bowl of Dublin’s finest Irish stew, The Hairy Lemon should be on your list. The moment you step inside, you get that pure Dublin vibe. It holds a solid 4.4 rating from over 7,000 Google reviewers and 4.3 on TripAdvisor, and the pub is famously known for being a filming location for The Commitments.
I stopped in for a late lunch and the atmosphere was everything you want in a Dublin pub—cozy, lively, and full of personality. We originally just wanted a quick bite with our pint, but the menu quickly tempted us to try more. The Traditional Irish Stew arrived steaming hot, loaded with chunks of tender lamb, potatoes, and veggies, served with a thick slice of hearty brown bread. It was true comfort food. I also tried the Dublin Coddle, which was sausages and bacon slow-cooked in broth. It was surprisingly delicious and something I would order again.
The pub is spacious and covers several levels. While some say it can get busy, I found it easy to get a seat during lunchtime. The staff made the experience even better—they were friendly, welcoming, and happy to offer recommendations if you needed help deciding. Even the lemon cake for dessert was a winner—moist, tangy, and the perfect finish alongside an Irish coffee.
This spot is casual, cozy, and trendy, ideal for groups or solo diners. You’ll find live music, sports on the TV, and walls covered in fun memorabilia. Expect to pay about €20 to €30 per person. If you want to book in advance, call +353 1 671 8949 or email bookings@thehairylemon.ie.
If you are working your way through the best Irish stew in Dublin, make sure The Hairy Lemon is near the top of your list.
The Celt
If you’re searching for a proper old-school pub with a great bowl of the best Irish stew in Dublin, The Celt on Talbot Street is the place to go. It’s a favorite among locals, holding a strong 4.6 rating from over 7,000 Google reviews and 4.4 on TripAdvisor, and for good reason.
From the outside, it might look like a small pub, but inside it opens up into a big, atmospheric space with low lighting, nightly live traditional music, and a warm, lively crowd. Everyone kept telling me to check it out, and when I finally did, I wondered why I hadn’t gone sooner. I ordered The Celt’s Famous Irish Stew and it was incredible. The broth was rich and meaty, the lamb was tender, and the veggies were perfectly cooked. It came with a thick slice of Guinness bread and quickly became one of my favorite meals in the city.
We also tried the Half Roast Chicken and the Fish and Chips, and both were excellent with generous portions. The staff added to the experience—they were friendly, quick with food and drink recommendations, and gave the whole place that true Irish pub feeling.
The Celt is wheelchair accessible, family-friendly, and perfect for groups or visitors. You’ll find high chairs for kids, live music, fireplaces, and an authentic historic setting. Expect to spend around €20 to €30 per person. For dinner, I suggest booking ahead by calling +353 1 878 8655 or reserving through their website.
If you’re ticking off the best Irish stew in Dublin, The Celt deserves a top spot on your list.
The Stag’s Head
If you want a good pint and a true taste of old Dublin pub character, The Stag’s Head on Dame Court is one of my top favorites. It earns a solid 4.5 from over 6,000 Google reviews and 4.4 on TripAdvisor, making it a go-to for both locals and visitors.
The atmosphere here is just right. You’ll find dark wood, Victorian fixtures, wrought-iron chandeliers, and giant mirrors that create a classic old-school vibe. There’s always a lively energy, with live music, welcoming staff, and a setting that feels made for laughter and a few too many pints.
When it comes to food, I went for their Irish Stew. It’s a generous bowl and also gluten-free, which is great for anyone with dietary needs. While the meat was a little dry for my taste, the broth and the Guinness beer bread were absolutely top notch. I also tried the Bacon and Cabbage, which was salty, tender, and just what you’d want from comfort food.
They welcome walk-ins for small groups and it’s usually not too hard to get a table. The Stag’s Head is wheelchair accessible, offers live music, shows sports on the TV, and keeps a warm, easy-going vibe that works for solo visitors or groups.
Expect to spend around €10 to €20 per person. Even though the stew wasn’t my number one on this list, the pub is a must-visit for the atmosphere alone. For event bookings, you can call +353 1 679 3687, or just stop by and enjoy the craic.
If you’re exploring the best Irish stew in Dublin, The Stag’s Head is a classic you shouldn’t miss.
Old Mill Restaurant
If you’re craving a proper, hearty meal and a bowl of the best Irish stew in Dublin, Old Mill Restaurant in Temple Bar is a great pick. With a strong 4.5 rating from more than 5,000 Google reviews and 4.4 on TripAdvisor, it might look touristy from the outside, but it has earned plenty of local fans too.
I went for their Guinness Stew and it was a winner—rich, hearty, and packed with tender beef that practically melted in my mouth. The children’s portions were huge, which kept the kids happy, and the staff went out of their way to help us with the stroller. The service was friendly and relaxed, and the whole place had a classic Irish pub feel, with dark wood, cozy corners, and a full bar serving up a perfect pint of Guinness.
I was also impressed by their Full Irish Breakfast, which was probably the best I tried in Dublin on this trip. They serve it until 2 p.m., which is perfect if you like a late breakfast. The puddings were golden outside and light in the middle, much better than what I’ve tasted elsewhere.
Old Mill Restaurant is kid-friendly, offers vegetarian options, free Wi-Fi, and unisex bathrooms. The homey, casual vibe is perfect for groups, families, or tourists. Prices are around €20 to €30 per person. The entrance is on the first floor, but the staff are happy to help if you have kids with you. To book a table, just call +353 1 671 9266.
Gallagher’s Boxty House
For traditional Irish plates and a delicious bowl of the best Irish stew in Dublin, Gallagher’s Boxty House is a must-try. Tucked away in Temple Bar, it holds a solid 4.4 from nearly 5,000 Google reviews and an equal score on TripAdvisor. This is one of those rare spots that locals, taxi drivers, and tourists all rave about.
A friendly taxi driver even recommended it to us and booked a table right from his phone. By the time we arrived, the restaurant was bustling. The Irish Lamb Stew here was just what you want—hearty, full of tender lamb and lots of vegetables, all swimming in comforting flavors. My friend went for the Shepherd’s Pie and could not stop talking about it. The Boxty Fries also deserve a mention. They are crispy golden strips that you’ll probably want to order more than once.
If you’re curious on Irish Shepherd’s Pie, then you should read my another blog Best Shepherd’s Pie in Dublin.
The atmosphere inside is lively and inviting, with Victorian stained-glass lamps, antique furniture, and a warm, buzzing vibe. Our waiter, Mike, was fantastic—friendly, attentive, and full of good conversation. Dessert finished things off perfectly, with the sticky toffee pudding and Apple Cinnamon Boxty Dessert both getting top marks.
Gallagher’s Boxty House is wheelchair accessible and family-friendly. You’ll find high chairs, a kids’ menu, live music, a full bar, and they even welcome dogs. Prices are usually around €20 to €40 per person, and for food this good, it’s worth every cent. If you’re searching for the best Irish stew in Dublin, Gallagher’s deserves a spot at the top of your list. Book a table ahead on their website or call +353 1 677 2762.
Darkey Kelly’s
We’d only just gone out for a walk around Christchurch when we ended up in Darkey Kelly’s on Fishamble Street. The pub had been suggested to me for ages — I’d heard it fell more than once in conversations about decent Irish grub and genuine music. As the sky started to get dark and the streets start that early evening buzz, it was time. And with a 4.7 excellent Google rating (4,846 reviews) and 4.7 on TripAdvisor (2,205 reviews), it’s Dublin’s go-to pub — and now I see why.
We dropped in mid-week around 5pm and were seated right away. The room was cozy and vibrant, and by 6pm there was live traditional music going. Staff were friendly and efficient — the drinks came quickly, and the energy in the establishment was infectious.
I had a pint of Guinness and their infamous Beef and Guinness Stew — and I’ll let you flat out, one of the best Irish stews Dublin has to offer. Rich, hearty, bursting with flavour, served with creamy mash and superb with a pint. We also tried the lamb shank and slow-roasted prime rib, both equally as good. We actually went back there a couple of days later — that good.
It’s a much-sought-after spot, so it’s packed in there, but the live music and atmosphere well and truly compensate. Proper pub experience with great grub and friendly atmosphere.
You’ll pay €20–30 per person depending on what you have. The pub is wheelchair accessible, family friendly, and ideal for live music lovers. You can find it at 19 Fishamble St, Dublin 8. Book on darkeykellys.ie or call +353 83 346 4682.
Final Recommendation on the Best Irish Stew in Dublin
That wraps up my guide to the best Irish stew in Dublin, from the no-frills bowls at O’Neills to the full pub-and-performance atmosphere at Darkey Kelly’s. Every spot on this list offers something special, and each one nails that perfect mix of rich flavor, friendly service, and authentic Dublin charm.
Whether you’re a local searching for a new favorite or a visitor hoping for a real taste of Ireland, you’ll find the perfect bowl here. Go hungry and try to arrive early, especially if you want to catch live music. You’re in for a treat—I’m sure you’ll find a stew you’ll want to come back for.