Going to a fancy restaurant doesn’t have to cost a fortune, especially if you’re in Ireland!
A brand new study has revealed that Ireland is the second most affordable country for Michelin-starred dining in the world.
Maybe it’s a special occasion, such as a birthday or anniversary, or you’re celebrating something exciting, like a graduation or promotion.
Whatever the reason, dining out at a Michelin-starred restaurant is the perfect way to celebrate. And in Ireland, doing so doesn’t have to break the bank.
Affordable luxury – great food at an affordable price
A recent study by international foodie magazine Chef’s Pencil revealed that Ireland is the second most affordable country for Michelin-starred dining.
Thailand took the top spot as the most affordable country to enjoy Michelin-starred dining. In the South-East Asian country, which is known for its yoga retreats, the top-priced tasting menu costs $173 on average.
Home to three restaurants boasting two Michelin stars, Ireland came in a close second. Here, the average price for top tasting menus is $212 (or €180).
On the flip side, Denmark was named the most expensive country to dine out at a top Michelin-starred restaurant. Dining at a premier restaurant in the Scandinavian country will set you back a whopping $404.
What makes Michelin-starred dining? – what to look out for
As Ireland is named the second most affordable country for Michelin-starred dining in the world, you may be wondering what exactly this means.
Michelin stars are awarded to grade restaurants on their quality. According to the Michelin Guide, one star recognises “a very good restaurant”.
Meanwhile, two stars signify “excellent cooking that is worth a detour”, and three stars set apart “exceptional cuisine that is worth a special journey”.
Thus, for any food lovers and fans of dining out, a Michelin star may be exactly what you’re looking for.
How restaurants were ranked – the criteria
Chef’s Pencil researched the menus of over 450 restaurants that have earned two or three Michelin stars to come up with their list of most affordable countries for luxury dining.
From the menus, researchers checked the prices for the top tasting menu available.
Top tasting menus are normally eight to 12 courses served at dinner. However, some restaurants offer single tasting menus or multiple menus that are priced identically.
Restaurants do not normally include beverages in the cost, although some do price them in.
Michelin-starred dining in Ireland – where to go for a great meal
Ireland was named the second most affordable country for Michelin-starred dining in the world. But the real question is, where can we enjoy this top-quality dining?
Ireland is currently home to three restaurants with two Michelin stars.
First up is the Aimsir in Lyons Demesne, County Kildare. Celebrating local ingredients, head chef Jordan Bailey and his team create a menu full of flavour and delicious dishes.
Two Dublin restaurants currently hold two Michelin stars. The Greenhouse in Dublin 2 received its first Michelin star in 2016, which it retained until 2020 when it received its second star.
Finally, Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud on Dublin’s Merrion Street is not only one of Ireland’s restaurants boasting two Michelin stars. Rather, it also claims to be the most award-winning restaurant on the Emerald Isle.
