Ireland may not be known for its food, but maybe Dublin should be!
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
Topic: Top five Monday |
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Tags: Dublin, restaurants, solo travel
About the author
Beth Morrissey is a freelance writer living in Dublin, Ireland. She’s also lived in the USA, England and Singapore but is proud to call the Emerald Isle home. Visit Beth at her website, www.bethmorrissey.com
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