The city has become practically overrun with restaurants, so rather than waste time trying to separate the delicious from the duds, use this handy guide to the Top 5 restaurants for eating alone in Dublin.

1. Avoca

11 – 13 Suffolk Street, Dublin 2

Don’t be fooled by the fact that Avoca is actually a multi-level department store, or blinded by the incredibly bright, kitschy yet cool stock – it’s actually got a fantastic deli in the basement and a hard to beat café on the top floor. Old favourites like Caesar salads rub shoulders with signature dishes like chili salmon on these jam-packed menus so there’s usually something to suit every taste. Staff won’t blink at lone diners in either place, but Avoca does get crowded during the city’s 1pm lunch hour so try to arrive early to beat the rush or late if you feel like taking your time over a lengthy cup of tea. The location, just steps from Trinity College and Grafton Street, also makes Avoca hard to beat.

2. Cake Café

The Daintree Building Pleasants Place, Dublin 2

Many Dubliners wonder if the Cake Café isn’t an urban myth – sure they’ve heard of it, but can anyone actually find it? The trick is to get yourself to Camden Street and then walk through the Daintree paper store (the staff doesn’t mind, they’ll even point you in the right direction). You’ll emerge into a quirky cool courtyard and the bonus is that with half the city unaware of its location you’ll almost always be able to snag a table. Linger over an afternoon tea of bite sized treats or satisfy your hunger with one of the café’s delicious salads or sandwiches. All ingredients are organic, so you might even be able to convince yourself that the tarts and cakes are good for you. If the sun is making an appearance, ask for a table outside so that you can gaze at the unexpected wall décor.

3. Dunne & Crescenzi

14/16 South Frederick Street, Dublin 2

Like any great Italian restaurant, the focus at Dunne & Crescenzi is on the food, not how many people are being served. Ask for a table near the window and watch the world go by as you tuck into some of the best pastas this side of Italy. The lunch menu in particular is good value, and no one will rush you through a glass of wine in order to flip a table. In fact, if you leave without savouring a post-meal coffee you’ll seem practically speedy in comparison to others.

4. O’Neills

2 Suffolk Street, Dublin 2

It’s true, O’Neills is a bit of a tourist trap due to its location but if you’re looking for pub grub it can’t be beat. The full carvery will leave your plate groaning under the weight of meat and veg, though sandwiches and delicious seafood chowder are also available. If you’ve got nothing else on, grab yourself one of the tiny nooks and enjoy your feast while watching the televised sporting events or chatting away to a new neighbour. Even as a single diner you won’t remain anonymous if you stay at O’Neills for very long.

5. The Bistro

4/5 Castle Market, Dublin 2

If you’re looking for something slightly more upscale, head to the pedestrianized Castle Market and get yourself a seat at The Bistro. This family run restaurant welcomes parties of all sizes and does take reservations, though you won’t likely need them on weeknights. Enjoy their elegantly simple fare (don’t miss the fried Brie to start) and good wine list, and don’t miss the typically Irish banoffi pie for dessert. Prices won’t break the bank and the staff are always solicitous. The perfect recipe for a quiet meal.

Photo of Dublin O’Neill’s pub originally posted by ktylerconk

The Irish love children, so don’t feel you need to leave your own at home the next time you visit Dublin.

In fact, there are many city attractions that run special kids programs that you might want to look into to make sure the little ones are looked after.

1. Imaginosity

Imaginosity is Dublin’s newest children’s museum and it is run according to the principle that all exhibits should combine creative learning and play. From “The Climber” (a two storey climbing and crawling space) to the Town Centre (where young visitors can assume the role of a community member) to The Construction Company (where play hardhats and hammers are essential), parents and kids will both enjoy this hands-on museum. Imaginosity can be reached by taking the Green LUAS (tram) line to Sandyford. Family Saver tickets are available for families with at least three adults and children over the age of three.

2. The Ark

The Ark was Europe’s first “cultural centre for children” that dedicated itself to programming by, for and about kids. The Ark routinely books shows and exhibitions that incorporate all of the arts and most major types of media. Many events are age-specific, so be sure to check the recommended guidelines before booking in, and don’t forget to ask if an accompanying parent is needed (for some workshops parents will be superfluous). The Ark is situated in Temple Bar and therefore can be reached by taking any city centre bus. Ticket prices vary per program.

3. Phoenix Park

At over 1700 acres the Phoenix Park is the largest urban, enclosed park in Europe. When the kids need to stretch their legs don’t hesitate to bring them here for a quick run around. If you’re lucky you might catch a glimpse of the wild deer herd that resides in the park. Plan to visit on the weekend and you might also be able to enter Aras an Uachtaráin, the home of the Irish President. Just 1.6 mile away from the center of the city, the Park is accessible both by bus and the Heuston or Museum stops on the red LUAS (tram) line. Entrance to the park is free.

4. Dublin Zoo

Situated inside the Phoenix Park, Dublin Zoo is home to more than 200 different types of animals and birds. If you’re visiting with young children you won’t want to miss the Children’s Pets Corner or the “train” ride through the African Plains. Kids of all animals will likely enjoy the City Farm which doubles as a petting zoo for animals such as goats, turkeys, sheep and donkeys. The Zoo is best reached by bus or the Heuston or Museum stops on the red LUAS (tram) line. Family tickets are available.

5. Chester Beatty Library

Though its exhibitions are not specifically designed for children, the Chester Beatty Library has a number of multimedia displays that children will likely enjoy. The Silkworms Club also offers a number of events for children aged 6 – 11 years that include arts and crafts, music and dance, and of course fun and frolics. Family days also take place around major cultural holidays such as Chinese New Year, Diwali, Christmas and Easter. The Chester Beatty Library is located behind Dublin Castle and is best reached on foot from the city centre. Entrance to the Library is free.

Photo of Dublin Imaginosity museum originally posted by Maurice Frazer