There’s no shortage of great restaurants in the Irish capital — but when it comes to narrowing down the best dinner places in Dublin, a little local expertise goes a long way. From perfectly seared steak to seafood sizzling in pans, elegant Irish fare to candlelit French classics, Dublin’s dinner scene has something for every appetite and every kind of night out.
I have eaten high and low throughout the city over the last few months — from trendy rooftops such as Sophie’s to cozy gems such as The Little Kitchen — all in the name of discovering where dinner in Dublin is done properly. The top places do not necessarily just have good food; they provide experiences. It’s about the ambience of the room, the attention to detail, and those moments when a perfect plate is placed in front of you with a glass of wine that just works.
This guide is all about tried-and-tested eateries dishing up quality fare, good vibes, and that legendary Dublin welcome. Whether you’re on a first date, a night out with friends, or treating yourself to a solo meal, there’s something special here for you.
Hungry yet? Let’s dive into Dublin’s most memorable dinner spots — and don’t forget to book ahead!
Here’s Where You’d Want To Go For The Best Places For Dinner In Dublin!
Best Places for Dinner in Dublin: Where Good Food Meets Good Vibes
Dublin’s food scene is a mix of traditional Irish cuisine, hearty European flavors, and international sophistication. From historic pubs to upscale dining rooms with lengthy wine menus, these restaurants provide more than sustenance — they’re experiences, and some of the best Dublin dinner places.
Hawksmoor Dublin
In a city where dinner’s too frequently a rush or an automatism, Hawksmoor turns it into an event. Snuggled into the stateliness of College Green, this restaurant blends period luxury with Dublin humor — all polished brass, reclining seats, and candlelit corners that suggest steakhouse heaven done to perfection. With 1,300+ Google reviews at 4.3 stars and a TripAdvisor rating of 3.8, it’s firmly on the local and tourist scene’s list.
We visited on Women’s Day, and from the moment we entered, we knew we had made the correct decision. The staff were so genuinely friendly and professional — seated at once, drinks already being offered before coats had even reached the back of the chair. The set lunch menu was what we ordered, which was exceptionally good value for money given the quality delivered.
The chips and steak were straight out of the textbook — blackened, juicy, and held up by their infamous beef dripping fries, which are stand-up applause-worthy in themselves. For dessert, the Sticky Toffee Pudding Sundae arrived like a velvet curtain call — crunch, caramel, and melt-in-your-mouth bliss. A top-notch place for date night or family evening that’s celebratory without being pretentious.
To reserve your table, call +353 1 485 4720 or complete their online booking form. It’s busy at weekends and evenings, so reservations are strongly recommended. Hawksmoor offers one of the best dinner experiences in Dublin — elegant but convivial, hedonistic but down-to-earth.
Old Mill Restaurant
With over 5,500 Google reviews and an iron-tight 4.5-star rating, the Old Mill Restaurant has emerged as one of Dublin’s top dinner destinations without much hype. It has a similarly impressive 4.4 rating on TripAdvisor, loved by locals and travelers alike for its decadent Irish fare, warm old-fashioned decor, and comforting portions that taste like a warm hug in edible form.
We came here for our last evening in Dublin and couldn’t have been treated to a more appropriate farewell. Having made reservations on Google, we were delighted to find the place packed with stroll-ins — but the line moved rapidly, and soon enough we found ourselves cozied up into a snug table amidst wooden walls, Guinness posters, and antique trimmings that formed a pub-meets-parlour ambiance.
We ordered the Guinness Stew and the Cottage Pie, both large and full of rich flavor. The stew came steaming hot, the meat slow-cooked to tenderness, and the Cottage Pie golden, creamy and strongly savory. The gluten-free options were another welcome bonus — clearly marked and expertly cooked. Dessert? Let’s just say the “cheesecake” was more mousse than cake, but no less rich.
The service was quick, respectful, and friendly — no frills, just nice Irish manners. If you’re looking for genuine comfort food or a fancy dinner with no attitude, the Old Mill delivers the goods.
To reserve a table, call +353 1 671 9266 or email info@oldmillrestaurant.ie. Book ahead is a good policy, especially for evening meals and weekend seating.
Sophie’s Rooftop Restaurant, Terrace & Bar
Sophie’s Rooftop Restaurant, Terrace & Bar is simply one of Dublin’s finest dinner destinations. Located on top of The Dean Hotel at 33 Harcourt Street, this rooftop restaurant boasts a respectable 4.3-star rating on Google (3,941+ reviews) and 4.0 on TripAdvisor (1,370+ reviews). Known for its cityscape views, cocktails, and snug-chic ambiance, it is now a holidaymaker and date-night destination, as well as a party celebrating special events.
We first stopped by around 10:30am one morning and just popped in for a drink and, even then, the vibe was perfect. I opted for their virgin ‘Red & Green’ – a pleasant, seriously delicious mix that I find myself pondering to sip on even now. My husband had his usual Guinness. The barman was friendly and professional, chatting as he set up for the day. We liked it so much we returned for a real dinner a few nights later to mark a friend’s 40th birthday – and what a good decision that proved to be.
We started with a cucumber and cantaloupe salad, with red currants on top and a snappy vinaigrette dressing – light, pretty, and delicious. I opted for the gnocchetti in a light red sauce that was packed with flavor but not heavy on the palate, while my husband had the pan-fried sea bream – crispy skin, soft fish, and cooked to perfection. All the dishes were presented beautifully. Portion sizes were large, and main courses cost between €22–€32. The drinks list was impressive, too, with particular mention for cocktail fans.
The open-air rooftop venue was beautiful, particularly at night with the lights of the city. But most impressive was the staff – they made the evening truly special. Even when our time was up, they happily seated us another table to enjoy the remainder of our drinks. That kindness and hospitality had a lasting impression.
For a hip restaurant with a lively rooftop scene and great service, Sophie’s is greatly recommended. You need to book in advance, especially for weekends. You can do your booking at bookdublin@sophies.ie or (01) 607 8100.
La Maison
La Maison on Castle Market is a hidden gem among the best places for dinner in Dublin. Tucked away at 15 Castle Market, just off Grafton Street, it holds a stellar 4.6-star rating on Google (1,062+ reviews) and 4.5 on TripAdvisor (970+ reviews). With its romantic French charm, cosy interiors, and elegant menu, it’s the kind of spot you’ll want to return to before your trip ends.
my partner and I popped in for a swift drink only a few months ago — I had their booze-free ‘Red & Green’, which was wonderfully refreshing, and my husband partook in a morning Guinness (as you do, even at 10:30am!). Our barperson was affable and efficiently relaxed, setting the scene for what turned out to be an excellent return visit later that week.
We came back for dinner on Saturday night, April 12th, to celebrate a friend’s 40th — and it was the perfect choice. To begin with, we had a prettily arranged salad of strips of cantaloupe and cucumber, with red currants and a tangy vinaigrette. I ordered the gnocchetti in a light, though tasty red sauce, and my husband went for the pan-seared sea bream, which was crisped perfectly and had plenty of depth. Every mouthful tasted thoughtfully prepared. Mains average about €25–€35, and the portion sizes appeared spot on.
The ambiance achieved a nice balance between stylish and casual — imagine Paris meets Dublin. But what truly made the night sparkle was the staff. Even when our table time was up, they graciously invited us to have another snug area to enjoy our drinks. Their friendly, genuine hospitality took the entire experience to a new level and made us feel very well taken care of.
For the finest French food in the city centre, La Maison is one of the best dinner places in Dublin . Book ahead — especially at weekends — at lamaisondublin.com, OpenTable, or info@lamaisondublin.com. Call (01) 672 7258 for bookings and short questions.
The Vintage Kitchen
La Maison on Castle Market is a hidden gem among the best places for dinner in Dublin. Tucked away at 15 Castle Market, just off Grafton Street, it holds a stellar 4.6-star rating on Google (1,062+ reviews) and 4.5 on TripAdvisor (970+ reviews). With its romantic French charm, cosy interiors, and elegant menu, it’s the kind of spot you’ll want to return to before your trip ends.
my partner and I popped in for a swift drink only a few months ago. I had their booze-free ‘Red & Green’, which was wonderfully refreshing, and my husband partook in a morning Guinness (as you do, even at 10:30am!). Our barperson was affable and efficiently relaxed, setting the scene for what turned out to be an excellent return visit later that week.
We came back for dinner on Saturday night, April 12th, to celebrate a friend’s 40th — and it was the perfect choice. To begin with, we had a prettily arranged salad of strips of cantaloupe and cucumber, with red currants and a tangy vinaigrette. I ordered the gnocchetti in a light, though tasty red sauce, and my husband went for the pan-seared sea bream, which was crisped perfectly and had plenty of depth. Every mouthful tasted thoughtfully prepared. Mains average about €25–€35, and the portion sizes appeared spot on.
The ambiance achieved a nice balance between stylish and casual — imagine Paris meets Dublin. But what truly made the night sparkle was the staff. Even when our table time was up, they graciously invited us to have another snug area to enjoy our drinks. Their friendly, genuine hospitality took the entire experience to a new level and made us feel very well taken care of.
For the finest French food in the city centre, La Maison is a must-visit. Book ahead — especially at weekends — at lamaisondublin.com, OpenTable, or info@lamaisondublin.com. Call (01) 672 7258 for bookings and short questions.
PHX Bistro
PHX Bistro in Smithfield is one of the best places for dinner in Dublin if you’re after excellent European-style food without any fuss. Nestled on 12 Ellis Quay, right along the Liffey, this small and cosy spot has earned a well-deserved 4.7-star rating on both Google (1,270+ reviews) and TripAdvisor (1,273+ reviews). It’s a hidden local favourite known for warm service, great value set menus, and genuinely delicious plates.
We dined here last evening and were greeted kindly by a lovely Chilean woman, with the same friendly attentions from a Brazilian waitress — both so considerate and professional throughout. The decor is plain and modern, with a relaxed, neighborhood vibe. It’s not flashy, but it is spotless and warm, with just the right level of bustle.
I enjoyed the hake fillet with lemon sauce, which was both fresh and full of flavor, while my spouse had the steak frites — prepared to his specifications, and fries that equal any bistro in France. We finished with a rich slice of carrot cake, which our super server Caitlin laced with a sweet “Happy Anniversary” topping. Portions were generous, and the quality was excellent. The set menu at around €30–€40 a head looked like an absolute bargain.
Overall, it was great — friendly service, top-notch grub, and a no-frills atmosphere that’s difficult to find. If you’re in the Smithfield neighborhood or simply after something nice to eat along the quays, this is the place to go.
Reservations are suggested as it is a small room. You can contact them at thevintagekitchen.ie/contact, email thevintagekitchendublin@gmail.com, or phone +353 89 447 9624.
The Little Kitchen
The Little Kitchen on Upper Leeson Street is making a quiet name for itself as one of Dublin’s best spots for dinner. Located at 129 Leeson Street Upper, Dublin 4, it has a 4.6-star score on Google (793+ reviews) and 4.7 on TripAdvisor (646+ reviews). With its romantic atmosphere, top-notch food, and friendly service, it’s a little gem that’s both intimate and special.
We stumbled upon this restaurant just two weeks ago during a search for a last-minute birthday evening dinner — and were lucky to get a reservation. The dining room is cozy and warm, perfect for date night or small group gatherings. The staff was warm, attentive, and made our evening special without being intrusive — going so far as to help us celebrate the birthday with a thoughtful gesture.
We chose the two-course dinner menu, and it was superb all the way through. For starters, risotto and arancini were packed with flavour and beautifully balanced. For main courses, the hake course was light but deeply satisfying, and the short rib rich and fall-off-the-bone tender. Food was all fresh, nicely presented, and replete with subtlety. Mains are typically €24–€32, and the two-course menu is great value for the quality.
The Little Kitchen possesses that perfect blend of laid-back coziness and fine dining. Whatever your thought might be for a relaxed evening or a special celebration, it’s a place you’ll want to return to.
To book a table, book ahead at thelittlekitchen.ie/contact-us, email info@thelittlekitchen.ie, or call +353 1 669 7844.
Mr Fox
Mr Fox, 38 Parnell Square West, is consistently voted one of the top dinner spots in Dublin — specifically for fine-dining fans looking for an innovative tasting menu in a stylish, city-centre setting. Its superb 4.7-star Google rating (1,043+ reviews) and TripAdvisor rating (587+ reviews) promises a high-end experience with seasonal fresh Irish produce, elegant service, and artistic presentation.
We had dinner here recently, opting for the vegetarian tasting menu (€83), and while service and overall ambiance were excellent, food itself was letdown for price. Restaurant ambiance was warm and welcoming, with good hum in the room and decent space between tables. Natalia, our server, was outstanding — friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to adjust wine pairings throughout dinner based on course pace.
The meal began well with three “snack” courses that had thoughtfully vegetarian alternatives. But once starter and main arrived, it was clear the replacement did not cut it. Main items of the original menu — like langoustine or halibut — were simply left out or replaced with additions that could hardly be noticed, like extra courgette or small potato dumplings. It was like tasting a cut-down version of the real thing, not a thoughtful vegetarian substitute.
On the bright side, dessert was truly outstanding — and particularly the chocolate mousse, which was creamy, rich, and beautifully plated. The dining room itself is hip, sleek, and immaculate, though lighting ran a bit too harsh for an otherwise refined atmosphere.
Mr Fox does service, atmosphere, and pudding to perfection – no question. But if you’re a veggie, it’s advisable to preview the menu. We’d return, but anticipate greater value or a more empathetic menu for non-meat-eaters next time.
Bookings are essential. Reserve at mrfox.ie, email info@mrfox.ie, or call +353 1 874 7778.
Trocadero Restaurant Dublin
Trocadero Restaurant on St Andrew’s Street is a firm favorite among Dublin’s finest dining destinations. Situated just on the doorstep of Grafton Street, this upmarket restaurant enjoys a solid 4.6-star Google rating (1,373+ reviews) and 4.4 on TripAdvisor (1,228+ reviews). With its stunning Art Nouveau decor, friendly atmosphere, and super-food quality each time, it’s ideal for that special night out or an evening of romance.
I walked in without a reservation and was pleasantly surprised they could seat me right away. The servers were friendly and sweet, getting the nice, leisurely dining experience off to a good start. It’s the type of place that mixes vintage sophistication with a touch of drama — from the decor to the fanatical service.
I started with scallops — delicate, perfectly cooked, and beautifully arranged. For main course, I opted for the rib-eye steak, served with garlic potatoes and creamed spinach as sides. All the components were very compatible and full of flavour. On my last visit, I had the cannelloni and it was hands down one of the best meals I’ve had in a long time. Prices are definitely on the higher side (main courses tend to fall in the €30–€40 range), but the quality is worth the expense.
The entire experience was fantastic — chilled, flavorful, and full of personality. My friend and I were leaving already wondering when we would return. Whether you happen to be in town for a show or simply looking for an upscale dinner in the heart of town, Trocadero does not let you down on any front.
Reservations are recommended, especially in the evening. Reserve your table at trocadero.ie/contact, email trocaderoireland@gmail.com, or call +353 1 677 5545.
FIRE Steakhouse Restaurant & Bar Dublin
FIRE Steakhouse & Bar on Dawson Street is a place for best dinner in Dublin to commemorate a special evening in upscale style. Housed within the historic Lord Mayor’s Supper Room at The Mansion House, this elegant dining venue boasts a respectable 4.4-star rating on Google (3,885+ reviews) and an even better 4.7 on TripAdvisor (2,149+ reviews). With vaulted ceilings high above, warm lighting, and theatrical presentation, it provides atmosphere as well as flavor.
For our final dinner of the year in Dublin, we chose FIRE — and it was a fabulous send-off. The atmosphere is impressive the minute you walk in: historic, elegant, but also contemporary and inviting. We chose the masterfully composed FIRE Experience menu, which was over-the-top but absolutely worth it for the night. The service was refined but also friendly, finding a perfect balance of attentive without being stuffy.
I started with the tiger prawns, wood-fired, chorizo and crayfish filled, garlic butter-roasted — rich, hot, and full of flavour. Dessert consisted of the 10oz peppered cream served with Pont Neuf chips and the old favourite 10oz rib-eye steak — bliss. In between, we had a lemon & thyme sorbet course, a tangy little palate cleanser before the showstopper. The final course? A raspberry and white chocolate cheesecake on a graham cracker crust — smooth, rich, and beautiful finish.
The cost is on the higher side — mains typically start at about €35–€50 — but the ambience, setting, and quality make it worth it as an indulgence. We left with full bellies, happy, and slightly tipsy — an ideal night.
If you’re after a best dinner places in the heart of Dublin, FIRE should be high on your list. Book ahead via mansionhouse.ie, email fire@mansionhouse.ie, or call +353 1 676 7200.
Conclusion
Whether you’re craving a rooftop view, French finesse, or a comforting Irish stew, Dublin offers dinner options to suit every mood and budget. From the elegant plates at Mr Fox to the warm welcome of PHX Bistro, each restaurant on this list offers more than just food — they deliver atmosphere, service, and a reason to come back.
Most average between €30–€50 per head, with a few splurges well worth it. Be sure to reserve in advance, especially on weekends. Trust me — these are the best places for dinner in Dublin you’ll want to keep in your back pocket.