The best restaurants Ireland

Timetable

Restaurants generally open around 12pm and close around 10 or 11pm. Note that they may close earlier out of season and outside Dublin, Cork, Galway or Belfast. Cafés and snack bars offeringIrish Breakfast open at 8am.

Budget & Tips

In a restaurant, you can expect to pay from €30 for a meal. In a pub, you can expect to pay around €15 for a dish.

In Ireland's major cities, you'll see an Early Bird menu on (almost) every restaurant front. Usually served in the late afternoon between 5pm and 7pm, this is a two- or three-course menu at reasonable prices, often between €20 and €40 (depending on the range of the restaurant).Early Bird, also known as pre-theatre dinner, is for those who want to eat early and then enjoy the nightlife, including shows (plays, concerts, etc.). A real bargain!

Of course, all establishments accept credit cards. Please note that in Northern Ireland, where the currency is the pound sterling, a commission will be charged on each payment.

What costs extra

There are no strict rules on tipping in Ireland, but of course a good tip is always welcome in a pub or restaurant. It's a good idea to leave around 10% of the bill.

The local way

A true European capital of parties and after-work drinks, Dublin has a whole range of restaurants serving the famous Irish Breakfast or brunches of all kinds all day long, especially on Saturdays and Sundays.

Kids

Except in rare cases, children are welcome in the restaurant and often have a menu specially designed for them. In pubs, families with children are not accepted after 9pm. So if you're accompanied by your charming little blonde friends, you'll have to leave at this time.

Smokers

Smoking is prohibited inside bars and restaurants.