Dublin's vibrant culinary scene truly shines when you can enjoy its flavors under the open sky. For anyone seeking the perfect restaurants with outdoor seating Dublin city centre has to offer, the options are as diverse as they are delightful. From tucked-away terraces perfect for people-watching to spectacular rooftop vistas, finding that ideal alfresco spot can transform a meal into an unforgettable experience.
Whether you're after a quick lunch break bathed in sunlight or a leisurely dinner under the stars, Dublin's city center has embraced outdoor dining, often with clever solutions like retractable roofs, cozy heaters, and lush greenery to make every season enjoyable.
At a Glance: Crafting Your Dublin Alfresco Experience
- Diverse Settings: Discover everything from bustling street-side patios to secluded "secret gardens" and panoramic rooftop terraces.
- Cuisine for Every Palate: Enjoy modern Irish, Thai, Vietnamese, Mexican, Italian, and classic pub fare.
- Weather-Ready Options: Many venues offer covered, heated, and sheltered outdoor spaces, ensuring comfort year-round.
- Booking is Key: While some spots welcome walk-ins, popular establishments, especially for evening or weekend dining, often require advance reservations.
- Beyond the Plate: Consider the ambiance – people-watching, city views, or a tranquil oasis – as much as the menu.
- Explore Unique Concepts: Look out for unconventional settings like dining aboard a canal barge or within a converted church.
Embracing Dublin's Alfresco Charm: Why Outdoor Dining Matters
There's a unique magic to dining outdoors in Dublin. The gentle hum of the city, the fresh air, and the opportunity to soak in the atmosphere add an extra layer of enjoyment to any meal. It's about more than just food; it's about the full sensory experience – the sights, sounds, and smells that weave together to create a memorable moment.
Finding the right spot among the many restaurants with outdoor seating Dublin city centre presents means considering what kind of experience you're looking for. Do you want to be right in the thick of the action, or escape to a serene hideaway?
Finding Your Perfect Outdoor Nook: A Dublin City Centre Guide
Dublin's city center is a treasure trove of outdoor dining options, each offering a distinct charm. To help you navigate, we've grouped some of the standout venues by the kind of outdoor ambiance they provide.
Sky-High Views and Rooftop Escapes
For those who love to dine with a view, Dublin’s rooftops offer a spectacular backdrop, combining delicious food with panoramic cityscapes. These spots are perfect for special occasions or simply to see the city from a new perspective.
- Sophie’s (The Dean Hotel, Harcourt Street, Dublin 2): Perched atop The Dean Hotel, Sophie's boasts a fantastic rooftop terrace with 360-degree city views. It's an all-day affair here, serving breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. Expect wood-fired pizzas, seafood linguine, and robust sirloin steaks alongside speciality cocktails like 'Mellow Yellow'. Mains range from €14.95 for pizzas to €39 for other options.
- The Marker Hotel (Grand Canal Square, Dublin 2): While details on its specific outdoor dining area are concise, The Marker Hotel promises sky-high views from the top of the hotel. Their bar menu, inspired by Asian flavors, includes small plates such as handpicked crab sesame toast and crispy gochujang chicken. A sophisticated choice for elevated dining.
- Ryleigh’s (The Mayson Hotel, Docklands, Dublin 1): This rooftop steakhouse offers breathtaking views of Dublin Bay, the city, and the Dublin Mountains. It’s open to both hotel guests and the general public, providing a sophisticated setting for weekend brunch (11 am – 3 pm) and dinner (5 pm – 10 pm daily).
Secluded Gardens and Lush Terraces
Sometimes, you want to escape the city's hustle without leaving it entirely. Dublin is home to several restaurants offering 'secret gardens' and beautifully adorned terraces that feel like a tranquil oasis.
- Saba (Baggot Street / Upper Baggot Street, Dublin 4): Discover "Saba’s Secret Garden," a spacious outdoor area decorated with canopies and heaters, ensuring comfort. Saba is renowned for its authentic Thai and Vietnamese cuisine, with an extensive dinner menu featuring curries, noodles, and the notable hoisin duck rolls. Mains typically range from €23.95 to €39.95. While walk-ins are welcome, booking in advance is highly recommended.
- The Dylan Hotel (Off Baggot Street, Dublin 4): As a 5-star hotel, The Dylan offers its "Nurserie Terrace," a partially covered space lush with plants and greenery, creating a magical, secluded atmosphere. Their luxurious menu includes dishes like guinea fowl, fillet of turbot, and saffron and tomato risotto, complemented by unique champagne ice pops.
- Elle’s Bar & Bistro (Iveagh Garden Hotel, Harcourt Street, Dublin 2): Step onto the "Botanical Terrace" at Elle's, a beautifully decorated space with hanging ivy. It’s ideal for charcuterie boards, weekend brunches (12:30 pm – 4 pm), lunches, and cocktails.
- The Alex Hotel (Fenian Street, Dublin 2): Its "Secret Garden" is a floral-inspired space featuring a retractable roof and heaters, perfect for an indulgent weekend brunch or alfresco evening dining.
Elegant Hotel Patios & Alfresco Dining
Dublin's hotels are masters of hospitality, extending their sophisticated dining experiences outdoors onto well-appointed patios and terraces. These venues often combine classic charm with modern amenities, many of which can be found among restaurants with outdoor seating Dublin city centre patrons frequent.
- FIRE Steakhouse & Bar (Mansion House, Dawson Street, Dublin 2): Situated at the historic Mansion House, FIRE's covered, airy terrace overlooks the Lord Mayor of Dublin’s garden. It features a retractable roof and glass balcony, ensuring comfort regardless of the weather. Their alfresco menu includes oysters, quinoa salad, and iced praline parfait. Set menus offer wood-fired tiger prawns and 8oz sirloin, with prices starting from €45pp for afternoon dining. They even offer a "Wine Experience" with a sommelier-guided six-course meal.
- The Grayson (St Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2): Enjoy dining in the Atrium Bar & adjoining Atrium Terrace, complete with a retractable roof. The menu boasts starters like butternut squash veloute and wild mushroom crostini, followed by mains such as pan-seared hake or confit heritage carrot. Starters range from €8 – €11.95, and mains from €22.50 to €40.
- The Shelbourne Hotel (Overlooks St Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2): Founded in 1824, this iconic hotel offers an open-air, sheltered terrace on the mezzanine level. They also feature a "Champagne Terrace" with a curated menu of seafood, charcuterie, and mini desserts paired with Laurent-Perrier champagnes. Expect market-fresh fish and their famous Shelbourne Burger.
- Balfes (The Westbury Hotel, Balfes Street, Dublin 2): Just off Grafton Street, Balfes features a stylish outdoor terrace at the front. They focus on Irish free-range meat and sustainably sourced seafood from local artisan producers. Ideal for a weekend brunch or an all-day dining menu with specialty cocktails.
- The Bailey Bar & Cafe (Duke Street, Dublin 2): Also just off Grafton Street, The Bailey boasts a south-facing on-street terrace with heaters and awnings. Perfect for light lunches or evening bites, including sharing plates like the Charcuterie & Irish Cheese Selection (€15) and gourmet sandwiches from €9.50. Be advised, it books up fast on weekends and evenings, though a few walk-in tables might be available.
Bustling Street-Side & People-Watching Havens
For those who love to feel connected to the city's pulse, a street-side table is unmatched. These spots allow you to savor your meal while watching Dublin life unfold around you.
- Isabelle’s (Royal Hibernian Way, Dublin City Centre): Located centrally in Royal Hibernian Way, Isabelle’s offers an outdoor dining area that’s ideal for people-watching. The modern decor, warm woods, and Irish art prints create a stylish yet comfortable setting.
- Lemon & Duke (Duke Street, Dublin 2): Situated beside Grafton Street, this venue features an L-shaped terrace wrapping around the building. Equipped with outdoor tables, seating, canopy umbrellas, and heaters, it’s a versatile spot for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
- As One (City Quay, Dublin 2): With tables and seating outside, As One is a convenient choice for healthy, sustainable, and locally sourced Irish cuisine. They are open for outdoor dining Mon – Fri (7:30 am – 3:30 pm) and for outdoor brunch on Saturdays (9:30 am – 4:30 pm). It's just a short walk from Tara, Pearse, or Connolly Dart stations, and welcomes both bookings and walk-ins.
- 777 (George’s Street, Dublin 2): Known for its lively atmosphere, 777 offers "A Fuera" outdoor dining area serving up delicious Mexican food and fresh margaritas. Starters begin at €9, with mains like taquitos and tostadas from €14-€16. Sharing options and set menus are also available.
Unique & Historic Ambiance
Some outdoor dining experiences go beyond just the setting, offering a truly unique backdrop, often steeped in Dublin's rich history or offering an unusual perspective.
- The Church Bar and Restaurant (Jervis Street and Mary Street, Dublin 1): Housed in a beautifully restored 17th-century church, this venue offers a huge outdoor space to complement its historic interior. Enjoy gastropub fare like deep-fried calamari and buttermilk chicken burgers, alongside an extensive cocktail list.
- La Peniche (Moored on Dublin’s Grand Canal, Dublin 2/4): For a truly distinctive experience, dine on a restored classic cargo barge as it sails along Dublin’s Grand Canal. La Peniche offers dishes like confit duck leg, fillet of seabass, and Bailey’s crème brûlée. It's a charming and intimate way to see the city.
Casual & Expansive Outdoor Spaces
Sometimes, you just need space to relax and enjoy good food and drinks in an unpretentious setting. These venues provide ample outdoor areas for a more casual outing.
- The Harcourt Bar (Harcourt Street, Dublin 2): Boasting what might be Dublin's largest outdoor lounge, The Harcourt Bar offers multiple levels of seating, lush planting, heating, and coverings. It's a versatile spot for light bites, pizzas, and main dishes, accompanied by an extensive premium drinks menu.
- Oscars Cafe Bar (Smithfield Square, Dublin 7): With an expansive outdoor space, Oscars serves gastro bar-style food from award-winning chefs. Enjoy sundried tomato bruschetta, seafood chowder, or traditional fish & chips. No pre-booking is required; walk-ins are welcome, usually with minimal waiting times.
A Short Hop from the Core: Worth the Trip
While the focus remains on restaurants with outdoor seating Dublin city centre, a few exceptional spots are just a short journey from the very core, offering unique experiences that might tempt you slightly further afield.
- The Hole in the Wall (Along the Phoenix Park wall, Dublin 8): Once a medieval inn, this spot offers benches outside the pub where you can enjoy filling tapas like tempura prawns and generous main courses, including baked cod fillet and stacked burgers. It’s perfect for a post-Phoenix Park stroll.
- Rascals Brewing Co. (Inchicore, Dublin 8): This brewery features an expansive, covered outdoor drinks and dining area. Their menu is all about pizzas (with gluten-free, veggie, vegan, and kids options available, starting from €12). It’s easily accessible near the Blackhorse Luas stop and offers free parking.
Making Your Choice: A Practical Playbook for Outdoor Dining
With so many fantastic restaurants with outdoor seating Dublin city centre has to offer, making a decision can feel overwhelming. Here's a practical playbook to guide your selection:
- Define Your Vibe:
- Elegant & Upscale: Consider hotel terraces like FIRE, The Grayson, The Shelbourne, or Balfes.
- Relaxed & Lively: Street-side spots like Isabelle's, Lemon & Duke, or 777 are great for atmosphere.
- Tranquil Escape: Saba's Secret Garden, The Dylan's Nurserie Terrace, or Elle's Botanical Terrace offer serenity.
- Unique Experience: La Peniche (on the water) or The Church (historic setting) stand out.
- Casual & Spacious: The Harcourt Bar or Oscars Cafe Bar provide ample room.
- Views: Sophie's, The Marker, or Ryleigh's deliver spectacular vistas.
- Check the Forecast (and the Coverage): Dublin weather can be unpredictable. If the forecast is iffy, prioritize venues with retractable roofs, canopies, and heaters. Many of the featured spots, like FIRE Steakhouse, The Grayson, The Alex Hotel, Lemon & Duke, and The Harcourt Bar, are well-equipped for varied weather.
- Consider the Cuisine: From sophisticated modern Irish to authentic Thai, Vietnamese, Mexican, Italian, and gastropub fare, ensure the menu aligns with your cravings. Don't forget to check if they offer specific options like vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free, as seen at Rascals.
- Budget Accordingly: Outdoor dining options range from affordable pizza (Rascals from €12) and tapas (777 from €9) to more luxurious set menus (FIRE Steakhouse from €45pp). Check pricing in advance if budget is a key factor.
- Always Think About Booking: While some places like Oscars Cafe Bar and As One welcome walk-ins, popular spots, especially those with limited outdoor seating or high demand (e.g., The Bailey on weekends), fill up quickly. Booking in advance is generally the safest bet, especially for evening or weekend dining. Some like Saba even explicitly recommend it.
- Accessibility: Consider proximity to public transport (e.g., As One is near Dart stations, Rascals near Luas) or if parking is available.
For an even broader perspective on diverse culinary experiences, beyond just outdoor settings, you might want to delve into our comprehensive guide: Explore our unique dining guide. It provides a wealth of information on extraordinary cuisine and ambiance that goes beyond the ordinary.
Common Questions on Dublin's Alfresco Scene
Navigating outdoor dining in a city like Dublin can bring up a few common queries. Here are some quick answers to clear things up:
Q: Are outdoor dining areas in Dublin heated or covered?
A: Many premium and popular outdoor dining spots in Dublin city centre are equipped with heaters and covers, including retractable roofs, awnings, and large umbrellas. This allows them to offer comfortable alfresco experiences even when the weather is less than ideal. Examples include FIRE Steakhouse, The Grayson, The Alex Hotel, and The Harcourt Bar.
Q: Do I need to book in advance for outdoor seating?
A: It's highly recommended to book in advance, especially for evening meals, weekend brunches, or at popular venues. While some places like Oscars Cafe Bar and As One welcome walk-ins, you might face a wait, particularly during peak times. The Bailey, for instance, fills up very quickly.
Q: Are there outdoor dining options suitable for families with children?
A: Many restaurants are family-friendly, but it's always best to check their specific menus and facilities. Places with more casual settings like Oscars Cafe Bar or those offering pizzas like Rascals Brewing Co. (which explicitly mentions kids' options) might be particularly suitable.
Q: Can I find vegetarian or vegan outdoor dining options?
A: Yes, most restaurants in Dublin are accustomed to catering to dietary preferences. Venues like The Grayson offer vegetarian mains, and Rascals Brewing Co. has vegetarian and vegan pizza options. It's always a good idea to check the menu online or call ahead to confirm.
Q: What kind of cuisine can I expect from Dublin's outdoor restaurants?
A: Dublin's outdoor dining scene is incredibly diverse. You can find everything from modern Irish and classic steakhouse fare to authentic Thai and Vietnamese, Mexican, Mediterranean, Italian, and gastropub menus. Fresh seafood is also a common highlight, especially at places like SOLE Seafood & Grill (when open).
Your Next Outdoor Dining Adventure Awaits
Choosing among the stellar restaurants with outdoor seating Dublin city centre offers is less about finding "the best" and more about finding the right one for your mood, occasion, and preferences. With options ranging from serene rooftop vistas to bustling street-side patios, and cuisine to suit every palate, Dublin makes outdoor dining an accessible and enjoyable experience for locals and visitors alike. So, take these insights, pick your perfect spot, and get ready to savor Dublin's culinary delights under the open sky. Enjoy the fresh air, the vibrant atmosphere, and a meal that’s truly extraordinary.