Dublin guide: the best places to eat, stay and play in the Irish capital

the capital of Ireland, Dublin is steeped in history, dating back to its origins as a Viking settlement in 795 AD, followed by centuries of tumultuous change. It has earned a reputation for its lively pub culture, rich literary tradition and friendly locals who are as humorous as they are melancholic. And while Dublin‘s clichéd, Guinness-drinking character remains, in recent years the city has entered a new golden era, with a vibrant hotel scene, a thriving digital sector and a cacophony of urban developments marking the momentum of city ​​into the future. .

There are more than 50 new hotel projects in the works, including The Standard Hotel, which will inject its playful brand of glamor into the social scene (and capitalize on the newly extended nightlife hours that are reaching cappuccino territory). Similarly, stylish boutique hotels are set to open in the city centre, especially next to Merrion Square. Leinster, and further afield near Dublin Bay, the Cherrywood Hotel will be part of Ireland’s largest urban development. By the end of this year alone, the Irish Hotel Federation estimates an additional 2,000 rooms will be available, and that figure will double in 2023.

Part of Dublin’s evolution can be attributed to the wave of affluence from Silicon Valley transplants (it’s the European headquarters of Meta, Google, Microsoft, Airbnb, Twitter and LinkedIn, among others). It has also been one of the biggest beneficiaries of Brexit, with more than 135 financial firms relocating their operations from London (surpassing Paris and Luxembourg) and adding to its increasingly diverse and sophisticated population.

Like many booming cities, neighborhoods hitherto neglected have been transformed. “Dublin 8, one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods and home to many historical and cultural sites, has become a thriving district in recent years, thanks to an influx of creative new hospitality concepts that have found their way into affordable neighborhood,” says Laura Arnold of Press up, Ireland’s largest hotel group. And things have become much more multicultural; you can now find world-class sushi and shakshouka alongside inventive gourmet restaurants that are redefining Irish cuisine.

With a confluence of factors at play, one thing is clear: there has never been a better time to visit Dublin. If you find yourself in the Emerald Islehere are the best places to go in Dublin.

Café en Seine pornstar martini

Luvly Content/Café en Seine

Belly of suckling pig at the Café en Seine

Luvly Content/Café en Seine

Where to eat in Dublin right now

Arrive at Cafe in the Seine feels like stepping into a Wes Anderson movie set. The bustling multi-dining venue is an Instagrammer’s dream, with jewel-toned art deco decor and costumed jazz singers. People come for lattes and lunches during the day, and at night it’s one of the busiest foodie destinations in town. It was also named Jameson’s Bar of the Year for 2022.

Considered one of the most creative gastronomic experiences in Europe, Chapter One is a much-loved Michelin-starred restaurant where seasonal Irish ingredients are presented like art on a plate (or elaborate carving, in the case of canapes). The vibe is authentic and remarkably unpretentious for its caliber (although it’s not a place for kids). Opt for the five-course tasting menu and wine pairing recommendations from the sommelier.

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