Even though many pubs and restaurants around Temple Bar and beyond may boast about serving the best authentic Irish food in Dublin, I’m not the type to take the claim at face value. And no, I’m not throwing shade… Dublin genuinely knows how to plate up a proper Irish meal.
From ancient pubs serving up storied histories to cozy hideaways where locals settle in over warming stews, the gastronomic life of this city is an open-armed invitation to taste tradition. Lamb stew stalwart, seafood chowder connoisseur, or just someone who can never turn down fish and chips, there’s a place for you.
Over the last few weeks, I’ve wandered through the streets of Dublin, slipping into legendary pubs, searching for the best Irish restaurants in Dublin, and tasting everything from humble pub fare to dishes that would make your gran proud. From the age-old quaintness of The Brazen Head to the vibrant brashness of Darkey Kelly’s, this expertly curated selection delivers the genuine article.
What’s the wait then… let’s dig in, yeah?
The Celt
If you want a cozy place with some of the finest and authentic Irish food in Dublin, The Celt on Talbot Street is not to be overlooked. Attracting a staggering 4.6 on Google (7,536 reviews) and 4.4 on TripAdvisor (2,240 reviews), this local favorite pairs down-home cooking with live nightly traditional Irish music… the kind of place that has you home-like in minutes.
We visited The Celt on our first day in Dublin following a very enthusiastic recommendation, and it established the tone for the whole holiday. The welcome was warm, with friendly staff who assisted to make the evening even more special… from the friendly lady server to the Nirvana-socked bloke and the blue-eyed man who sung between the songs. The atmosphere was lively but cozy, with music in the air and that special Dublin pub magic.
The food was as beautiful as the setting. The Irish lamb stew (€18.95) was rich and comforting, the seafood chowder (€10.95) was smooth and flavorful, and Granny’s bacon and cabbage (€16.95) was homey and old-fashioned. To break up the monotony, the spinach and ricotta tortellini (€16.50) was a delight. We finished the night with dessert, and thus had a full-fledged feast from start to finish.
For real Irish hospitality with live entertainment and liberal portions, The Celt is a must. You can phone them on +353 1 878 8655 or email them at info@thecelt.ie to book your night out.
The Old Storehouse Bar and Restaurant
If you’re looking for the best authentic Irish cuisine in Dublin, The Old Storehouse Bar and Restaurant in Temple Bar is one you won’t want to miss. Standing at a solid 4.5 on both Google (8,279 reviews) and TripAdvisor (4,625 reviews), this quaint Victorian Irish bar pairs decor with eclectic music and hearty portions that will make you feel like home.
My visit wasn’t by reservation… I was only escaping the rain when I stumbled on it. No waiting whatsoever, and I was seated upstairs for dinner. Part of me wished I’d had a downstairs table, where the live music and atmosphere were happening in full, but the upstairs service was just as good. The waiters were friendly, efficient, and up for suggestions, which complemented the experience.
The food? Delicious to the core. The best dish was the Irish beef casserole… decadent, tender, and full of flavor. The seafood chowder was rich and comforting, perfect for a day when it was raining outside. The steamed mussels, served in a bacon and garlic cream sauce with garlic bread, could have used a little more sauce but were still good. Over a three-week trip to Ireland, this was definitely one of the standout meals that I had, with other winners being the mash and bacon, apple and pork pie, cottage pie, and fish and chips.
If you’re looking for full plates, live music, and real Dublin pub atmosphere all in one, this is the place. Ideal for groups, families, or anyone wishing to experience the real Ireland. Contact them at +353 1 607 4003 or check their website to book your night.
The Brazen Head
If you want to enter living history, have a proper pint, and searching for authentic Irish food, The Brazen Head on Bridge Street Lower is your place in Dublin. With a reliable 4.5 on Google (19,259 reviews) and 4.4 on TripAdvisor (5,691 reviews), it’s Ireland’s oldest pub, dating back to 1198. This brass-laden, lantern-heated gem is full of stories… from historic rebels gathering here to raucous music sessions every night.
I called with friends during the off-season, quieter time, and the ambiance was absolutely real. We were seated at 5:30 without reservation… but an hour later, when we left, the queue outside was huge. Good timing, that. The place was buzzing, with a surge from the fact that the All-Ireland hurling final was being played on the day. They had a live band playing in another bar, the Guinness was flowing, and everybody seemed to be having a wonderful time.
For grub, the clear winner was the beef stew… rich, hearty, and the perfect accompaniment to a pint of Guinness. An easy 11/10. I also tried the fish and chips, which was served in a massive portion and received a solid 7/10 from me. The menu is packed with Irish classics, and it’s served with warmth and know-how you’d expect from a pub that’s perfected the craft over centuries.
Whether you’re from around here or just passing through, The Brazen Head is a must. Visit for the history, linger for the ambiance, and don’t leave without sampling that beef stew. Call them at +353 1 679 5186 or check out their website for more. Ideal for a warm meal, a raucous evening of music, or just to soak up a bit of Dublin’s heritage.
Sheehans Pub
If you’re wandering through Dublin’s city centre and craving hearty Irish fare, Sheehans Pub on Chatham Street is a must-visit. This cosy, trendy spot holds a 4.6 rating on Google (1,893 reviews) and 4.5 on TripAdvisor (963 reviews), making it a well-loved stop for both locals and visitors.
I stumbled in while passing by and was greeted by the warm, inviting atmosphere of a true Dublin pub. The staff was friendly, the patrons rowdy but relaxed, and the atmosphere perfect for an unhurried meal.
The traditional fish and chips (€21) were golden and flaky, the lamb stew (€21) rich with strong flavor, and the grilled chicken salad (€14.50) light and fresh. The bangers and mash (€18) were tender to the point of fall-apart with a rich, savory taste, and the seafood chowder (€12.50) was creamy, well seasoned, and loaded with fresh fish, carrots, and celery. Every plate was generous and lovingly prepared.
For a genuine experience of Dublin pub culture, enjoy your meal with a glass of Guinness and get immersed in the cozy setting while soaking up genuine Irish hospitality. You can call 01 677 1914 or email sheehanschathamst@gm to reserve.
Darkey Kelly’s
If you’re looking for a great night out on the town in Dublin with traditional Irish grub and good music, Darkey Kelly’s on Fishamble Street is a gem. Rated 4.7 on Google (4,997 reviews) and the same on TripAdvisor (2,226 reviews), this charming, old pub is renowned for its energetic atmosphere, welcoming service, and live music nightly.
I dropped in after work, drawn in first by the sounds of live traditional Irish music spilling onto the street. It was crowded, with a small outdoor area offering a quieter place if wanted. At 7:30 pm, there was a 45-minute waiting time for food, so I decided on a few drinks that night, taking in the music and the atmosphere. In my second visit, I came earlier at 6 pm, was seated right away, and enjoyed a good meal.
The traditional Irish stew was rich and comforting, and the bangers and mash were spot on. Locals swear by the beef stew, and I’d agree… it’s best to stick to the Irish classics here, as they really shine. The portions were generous, and the food matched the pub’s warm, inviting spirit.
For the full experience, arrive early, enjoy the live music, and have one of their traditional dinners. Phone 083 346 4682 or email darkeykellys@gmail.com to check availability.
Brannigans
If you want to get the best of real Irish cuisine in Dublin at the end of a long day, try Brannigans on Cathedral Street. Boasting an impressive 4.6 Google rating (2,469 reviews) and the same as TripAdvisor (422 reviews), this little pub serves up rich traditional fare with an inviting atmosphere that you can’t help but linger in.
I stopped in after an extended day of attending a conference and was greeted by friendly smiles and quick service. There is seating on both floors, one and two, so it was easy to find a spot, and the mood was relaxed but full of personality. Food arrived promptly, steaming hot, and just as advertised… plain, comforting, and flavorful.
The warming Irish lamb stew (€16.95) was tasty, although the star of the show was beef with mash, vegetables, and an unknown breadcrumb topping that was the best I’ve ever had. The traditional fish and chips (€14.95) were the best yet; the fresh haddock was covered in light, crunchy batter, and portions were generous enough for two. I even found space for dessert, the sweetest conclusion to a great meal.
For huge helpings, friendly staff, and that lively Dublin pub atmosphere, Brannigans is definitely worth visiting. Call them at 01 874 0137 or email info@brannigansbar.ie to see if they have any space left.
Bottom Line Is
From The one’s great music sessions to another’s’ unbeatable fish and chips, the best authentic Irish Food in Dublin hunt was a delicious blend of history, culture, and straight-up hospitality to me. Stop in for a quick bite between sights or while away an evening of food and live music… these are more than just restaurants to sample… they’re pieces of Dublin itself.
With full plates, friendly service, and menus bursting with tradition, these eateries dish up their own interpretations of traditional Irish comfort food in Dublin. So steer clear of the tourist traps, grab a seat in one of these treasures, and allow Dublin to feed you as it should… abundantly, warmly, and with heart.
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