Dublin’s gourmet dining scene is ever expanding, with old and new coming together to offer locals and visitors a wide variety of culinary options. Whether you’re a carnivore or an all-natural vegetarian, this iconic city can provide. The below four restaurants bring some much-needed experimentation to local tradition, offering special menus, romantic settings, chef interactions and gorgeous scenery.
Shanahan's on the Green
This American-style steakhouse definitely caters to meat lovers, serving some of the best beef in Ireland. Shanahan's on the Green only serves certified Irish Angus, which are cooked in a special broiler that sears them on the outside, while the inside remains tender and juicy. If beef isn’t your forte, not to worry because the menu also has a wide array of fresh seafood, lamb and pork dishes. For dessert, don’t miss out on the Oreo cheesecake!
Chapter One
Located on Parnell Square, the Michelin-starred Chapter One has a wide range of menus, including the Kitchen Table Tasting with wine pairings, various Christmas options and the tasty Cheese Menu. The restaurant also has three different private dining rooms (The Jameson, The Vault and The Demi Salle), but the Chef’s Table is where the real action is at. Added with their 2009 renovation, diners can chat with the chefs and watch them at work in the kitchen from their seat at the polished volcanic-rock table.
Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud
As Ireland’s only restaurant with two Michelin stars, Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud is definitely the place to go for fine dining. With a mix of contemporary Irish and French cuisine, Guilbaud’s first opened in 1981 and features a 30-person private dining room in the Georgian part of the building, which is full of Roderic O'Conor paintings. The menu offers a plethora of amazing dishes, like the croquettes of suckling pig with fried quail egg, foie gras, pancetta and red pepper mostardo. Make sure that you try the lobster ravioli, French and Irish cheese, and the “Lacquered Kilkenny Ailesbury Duck,” with orange miso, iodized pink onions.
The Winding Stair
The Winding Stair has long been a favorite among bookworms and bohemians. The charming spot is half bookstore and half eatery, with bookcase walls, large windows and dark wood floorboards. The chef makes sure to keep patrons guessing by adding new twists to the menu, which focuses on locally-sourced organic ingredients. While you are there, don’t miss their famous bread and butter pudding, covered with whiskey sauce.
