10 Dublin Restaurants Every First-Time Visitor Should Try While Staying in Dublin 8
Staying in Dublin 8, you are in one of the best food neighbourhoods in the city. This part of Dublin is walkable, historic, and packed with places locals actually eat. No gimmicks. No tourist traps. Just solid food within easy reach of your accommodation.
Below is a practical, guest-tested list of 10 Dublin restaurants worth considering during your stay. These restaurants are a mix of casual, mid-range, and memorable meals. They’re all easy to book or walk into midweek.
Best of all, all of these restaurants are a short walk from the Storehouse Apartments and are aimed at visitors who want variety, reliability, and a real feel for Dublin!
1. The Winding Stair
A classic among Dublin restaurants, located right beside the River Liffey and Ha’penny Bridge. Known for modern Irish cooking done properly.
What to order: Seafood chowder or slow-cooked lamb
Good for: A relaxed but special first night in the city
2. Bastible
A small, thoughtful restaurant focused on seasonal Irish ingredients. Calm, confident cooking.
What to order: Set menu, let the kitchen decide
Good for: Food lovers who want something memorable without formality
3. The Brazen Head
Ireland’s oldest pub, still serving honest food in a historic setting.
What to order: Irish stew or beef and Guinness pie
Good for: Classic Dublin atmosphere with substance behind it
4. Variety Jones
Creative, modern Irish food with a neighbourhood feel. On the doorstep of Storehouse Apartments and a favourite with locals.
What to order: Tasting menu if available
Good for: Visitors who want something current, not touristy
5. Spitalfields
Mediterranean-inspired plates in a relaxed setting just off Meath Street.
What to order: Fresh pasta or fish specials
Good for: Easy dining after a day of sightseeing
6. L Mulligan Grocer
Traditional Irish cooking with an excellent whiskey selection. Warm and unpretentious.
What to order: Bacon and cabbage or daily specials
Good for: A proper local experience without fuss
7. Fish Shop
Simple, high-quality seafood cooked well. Casual but consistently good.
What to order: Fish and chips or grilled fish of the day
Good for: A laid-back meal that still feels like a treat
8. The Fumbally
A café by day that also works well for an early evening bite. A community-driven and relaxed venue.
What to order: Seasonal plates or bakery items
Good for: Breakfast, lunch, or a light dinner close to home
9. Dudley’s
Modern Irish dining with polish, right on the edge of the Liberties.
What to order: Meat-focused mains and seasonal sides
Good for: A smarter night out without stiffness
10. Fade Street Social
A short walk from Dublin 8 and worth it for variety. Multiple spaces, strong menu.
What to order: Sharing plates if dining as a group
Good for: Visitors who want energy and choice in one place
Where You Are Staying Matters
Staying in Dublin 8 means you do not need to plan your days around taxis or reservations across the city. Being so central means you’re surrounded by great Dublin restaurants. You can walk to dinner, explore side streets, and eat where Dubliners eat.
For first-time visitors, that ease makes a real difference. It is part of what turns a good trip into a great one.
If you are planning a visit to Dublin and want to stay somewhere central, character-filled, and well-connected to the city’s best food spots, Dublin 8 is a smart place to base yourself.
