I’ve always thought small plates, big flavors, and the joy of sharing (or not sharing, if the patatas bravas are too good) is just like food paradise for me. And being a Dubliner, how can I not go on a hunt for the best tapas in Dublin? I know I know… Dublin might be far from Spain, but it definitely has no shortage of eateries that serve up searing seafood, flawlessly crispy croquetas, and rich, slow-cooked meats.
I’ve spent the past few weeks hopping from one tapas bar to another, fork in hand, sampling my way across the city. From lively, bustling spots to cosy hideaways where the wine flows as easily as the conversation, these are the places worth visiting right now.
The Port House Pintxo
If you’re hunting for some of the best tapas in Dublin, The Port House Pintxo in Temple Bar is a cosy gem worth adding to your list. Sitting at 4.2 on Google (1,220 reviews) and 4.1 on TripAdvisor (565 reviews), this intimate spot is known for its authentic tapas and extensive Spanish wine list.
I was drawn in on my initial visit by the warm, candlelit atmosphere. The menu is huge, with lots of veggie choices as well as traditional standbys. I chose croquetas, a smooth duck leg, and blistered peppers… all made fresh and bursting with flavor. Everything was skillfully balanced, and you can see the kitchen takes its ingredients seriously.
This is the kind of establishment that has you going back, just to experience something new each time. The service is friendly and efficient, and speedy even on a busy night. Pair your tapas with one of their Spanish wines, ports, or sherries, and you have the perfect night out.
You can book by calling +353 1 672 8590 or through their site. Whether in for a night out with a date or catching up with friends, The Port House Pintxo offers charm, flavour, and atmosphere in equal measure.
The Market Bar Restaurant
For a bustling, open space with some of Dublin’s finest tapas, The Market Bar on Fade Street is the ticket. Boasting a 4.0 pull on Google (3,708 reviews) and 3.8 on TripAdvisor (1,401 reviews), this bar is renowned for its vaulted ceilings, energetic atmosphere, and generous portions.
I visited in March, and the moment we entered, the coziest atmosphere of the establishment set us up perfectly. We began with juicy meatballs in rich tomato sauce, followed by calamari, which were super crispy on the outside and soft inside. The fish tacos were especially wonderful… fresh, vibrant, and taste-balanced. The patatas bravas were excellent too, crispy outside with a fiery kick. We finished with a decadent cheesecake that was the ideal sweet conclusion.
The menu offers a broad range of tapas, all served in generous portions and cooked fresh. At €45 per person for two mains, a side, and dessert, the value is excellent. The room’s open layout means you’re never crammed in, and the happy, relaxed vibe makes it a great spot for groups. Staff were attentive and friendly, and dishes arrived promptly without any rush.
For supper, it’s best to reserve ahead on +353 1 613 9094 or at reservations@marketbar.ie. For a relaxed night out or a raucous weekend atmosphere, The Market Bar has both.
Salamanca
If you’re on the hunt for some of the best tapas in Dublin, Salamanca on St Andrew’s Street is a lively spot worth checking out. With 4.2 on Google (2,570 reviews) and 4.0 on TripAdvisor (1,635 reviews), this bustling tapas bar is known for its warm, vibrant atmosphere and generous portions.
I visited with my daughter on a short visit to the city, and although the night crowd was bustling, the service was helpful and efficient. The Pollo al Pedro Ximénez was an instant favorite… rich, sweet, and extremely well prepared. We enjoyed the patatas bravas, tortilla, and pan con tomate as well. Each was hot and bursting with flavor, and despite being full, we couldn’t resist going back for seconds.
The menu is wide-ranging, but tapas is where it excels. Gambas al ajillo and seafood paella are both not to be missed, and the large portions mean that it’s excellent value for sharing. The fun, lively atmosphere is encouraged by the bright red and orange walls in the room, and it’s ideal for groups or a relaxed night out.
If you’re planning to visit, it’s best to book a table as it gets busy, especially in the evenings. Call +353 1 677 4799 or email salamancatapas@gmail.com to arrange your visit.
Las Tapas De Lola
If you’re on the hunt for some of the best tapas in Dublin, Salamanca on St Andrew’s Street is a lively spot worth checking out. With 4.2 on Google (2,570 reviews) and 4.0 on TripAdvisor (1,635 reviews), this bustling tapas bar is known for its warm, vibrant atmosphere and generous portions.
I visited with my daughter on a short visit to the city, and although the night crowd was bustling, the service was helpful and efficient. The Pollo al Pedro Ximénez was an instant favorite… rich, sweet, and extremely well prepared. We enjoyed the patatas bravas, tortilla, and pan con tomate as well. Each was hot and bursting with flavor, and despite being full, we couldn’t resist going back for seconds.
The menu is wide-ranging, but tapas is where it excels. Gambas al ajillo and seafood paella are both not to be missed, and the large portions mean that it’s excellent value for sharing. The fun, lively atmosphere is encouraged by the bright red and orange walls in the room, and it’s ideal for groups or a relaxed night out.
If you’re planning to visit, it’s best to book a table as it gets busy, especially in the evenings. Call +353 1 677 4799 or email salamancatapas@gmail.com to arrange your visit.
Mi Casa
If you’re searching for some of the best tapas in Dublin, Mi Casa in Smithfield is a spot you’ll want to add to your list. With a stellar 4.8 on Google (165 reviews) and 4.6 on TripAdvisor (19 reviews), this cosy and trendy restaurant has clearly earned a loyal following.
I drove past first a while back and saw it. The place was seriously buzzing, so I returned to try their lunch menu. It didn’t disappoint. The scallop, the anchovies, and croquettes were highly flavorful, the pork belly and gambas being must-haves in terms of being among the better tapas in the city. All the food was fresh, well-seasoned, and properly cooked.
Service was excellent from start to finish, and the atmosphere was lively. The only drawback was that the room was extremely small, so it was not very easy to fully relax during meals. Nevertheless, the quality of food handily made up for it.
For service, flavour, and ambiance, Mi Casa is a safe bet for tapas enthusiasts. Call +353 1 817 4001 or send an email to micasa.dublin.tapas@gmail.com to book your table and have a meal. You’ll be booking your next trip back before departing.
Table 45
For the best tapas in Dublin, Table 45 is the hidden treasure that awaits you. A short walk from the centre of town, this small restaurant has an incredible 4.8 on Google (379 reviews) and 4.4 on TripAdvisor (34 reviews), and it’s no mystery why once you step inside.
The ambiance is warm and trendy, with a welcoming ambiance that tempts you to linger. We had a pleasant waiter who recommended extremely well, 2–3 tapas per head. We had five between the two of us, and it was sufficient. The portion sizes were generous for tapas, and quality was prioritized.
We tried patatas bravas, gambas al pil pil (our clear favourite), ham croquettes, chicken strips, and a spinach and bean dish. Every plate was delicious, though the spinach and beans didn’t quite match the rich flavours I’ve had in Spain. Still, it was a satisfying lunch, rounded off perfectly with a shared mini love tart, so good that my partner nearly ordered another one for himself, and a refreshing limoncello.
Table 45 is slightly off the beaten tourist path, but it’s well worth a short stroll for its ambiance, flavour, and welcoming service. Call +353 1 515 4403 or visit their site to book your table, and enjoy a tapas meal that’s as good as some of the city’s better-known restaurants.
Last Few Words on Tapas of Dublin
If you’re a foodie like me who can’t decide between one thing and another, tapas is the best for you, too. And trust me… my bucket list of the best tapas in Dublin has all that’ll remind you of that Spanish joie de vivre: fresh, full-flavoured dishes and an atmosphere.
So next time you’re out in Dublin and can’t decide what to order, grab a few friends, order a spread of tapas, and make an evening of it. And if my bucket list was to your liking, make sure to bookmark and come back for more delicious reads.
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