Sometimes it’s hard to know where to go for a great meal. That’s where chefs come in. Experts who constantly dine out with a critical palate, they eat everywhere – from humble hole-in-the-walls to the city’s finest fare and every flavour in-between.
We asked some Irish chefs what their favourite restaurants in Dublin are and why. Here are their recommendations…
The Greenhouse
'The chef, Mickael Viljanen has worked with great effort and energy since The Greenhouse opened. His innovation and dedication is unswerving. Mickael’s dishes are some of the finest I have eaten anywhere, and his personality comes through in this restaurant.'
Who chose it? Aidan McGrath, Wild Honey Inn
What is it? The Greenhouse is a Two Michelin Star restaurant located on Dawson Street just off St. Stephens Green. The food is inspired by the finest produce available to them, treated with the utmost respect and cooked with absolute passion. The kitchen team is led by their multi-award-winning 2 star Michelin Chef Mickael Viljanen, Sous Chef Mark Moriarty, Sous Chef Paddy Lee, Pastry Chefs Tara Garland and Lali Gonzalez.
Where is it? Joshua House, 21 Dawson St, Dublin 2, D02 TK33
Chapter One
'They have great food combinations, fantastic staff and brilliant Irish foods'
Who chose it? Kevin Arundel, The Chophouse
What is it? Chapter One is one of Dublin's leading restaurants and has won numerous awards for both food and service. The front of house team is warm and friendly while retaining a high level of efficiency and professionalism. The food at Chapter One is a delicate blend of old-style with innovative twists. The emphasis is on organic and seasonal ingredients to produce the best possible dining experience for the customer.
Where is it? 18-19 Parnell Square N, Rotunda, Dublin 1, D01 T3V8
The Seafood Cafe
'I love fresh seasonal seafood. It's why I always find myself having solo meals in The Seafood Cafe. Favourite restaurants are a mixture of a few things like a banging menu, proximity, and familiarity'
Who chose it? Nick Reynolds, Lil Portie
What is it? What started off as Dublin's tiniest seafood restaurant, The Seafood Cafe by Niall Sabongi is now known as one of the city's best places to get your fish fix.
Where is it? Unit 11, Sprangers Yard, Fownes Street Upper, Temple Bar, Dublin, D02 EC60
Liath
'There's not many places where you can go and comfortably laugh the night away while getting Michelin (should be two) star food. The staff there are some of the best I've seen'
Who chose it? Dan Hannigan, Mister S
What is it? Fine Dining Restaurant located in the seaside village of Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland
Where is it? 19A Main St, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, A94 C8Y1
Clanbrassil House
'One of my favourite restaurants in Dublin would have to be Clanbrassil House because the food is delicious, and I really enjoy the family-style option to share with friends'
Who chose it? Tara Gartlan, The Greenhouse
What is it? Clanbrassil House is a casual little restaurant on the ground floor of an old restored house on Upper Clanbrassil Street in Dublin 8. In the kitchen, the focus is on seasonal small plates & the best of the island’s produce cooked over a wood-fired grill.
Where is it? 6 Clanbrassil Street Upper, Dublin, D08 RK03
777
'The food and drinks are always phenomenal and all the staff are so friendly and its the perfect place to go on a Sunday night or after work late on a Saturday'
Who chose it? Gareth Naughton, Circa
What is it? 777 is Dublin’s only Contemporary Mexican Restaurant, they pride themselves on creating a fun filled and energetic atmosphere, combining bold flavor food with a zesty tequila cocktail bar.
Where is it? 4 16 16 S Great George's St, Dublin 2
Uno Mas
'I like to sit at their bar on my own and eat as much as possible with a bottle of wine. Friendly staff, wonderful food and excellent wines'
Who chose it? Thom Lawson, Sprezzatura
What is it? Uno Mas – a Bib Gourmand: good quality, good value cooking restaurant
Where is it? 6 Aungier St, Saint Peter's, Dublin, D02 WN47
