Ireland is a small country with a big personality. The island is often associated with traditional Irish music, ancient culture, pints of Guinness and pastoral settings.
One additional element which the Irish are well-known for is Sunday roast dinners. As a leading part of local culture, it is fair to say that the Irish have finessed the art of Sunday roasts over generations.
A “Sunday roast” is a traditional dinner meal served in Ireland, typically on Sunday. It consists of roast meat, roast (or sometimes mashed) potatoes and a selection of vegetables. Other additions can include gravy, for example.
If this sounds up your alley, check out these five best places to find a Sunday roast dinner in Dublin.
5. The Yacht Bar – for a seaside setting
This restaurant-bar is located in Clontarf, a seaside suburb on the Northside of Dublin. The Yacht Bar is a favourite of locals who come religiously for the Sunday roast dinners.
The venue is large, modern and fresh with splashes of colour – and, fantastic food. On any night of the week, this restaurant is vibrant, but Sunday is excellent for the entire family.
With tonnes of awards under its belt, this is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. There is heaps of space (making it great for larger groups) and has solid service, too.
Address: 73 Clontarf Rd, Clontarf East, Dublin 3
4. Fire – for a salubrious setting
Fire Restaurant and Lounge is a salubrious setting located on Dawson Street.
This upmarket venue is rich in decadence and décor with loud colours and luxurious textures. The building itself is from the Victorian era and is brimming with charm.
While this is a more formal setting to enjoy your Sunday dinner in, it certainly shouldn’t be overlooked. Locals swear by this Sunday roast in Dublin, and you’re sure to leave wanting more.
Expect a contemporary take on the classic dish. Guests can opt for a two- or three-course meals, and vegetarians are well catered for, too.
Address: The Mansion House, Dawson St, Dublin 2
3. O’Neill’s – for those on the tourist trail
This is your classic Irish pub. Located opposite the Molly Malone statue, near to Grafton Street and Trinity College, this makes for a great stop off on the tourist trail.
The layout of O’Neill’s is like that of a maze, so don’t expect it an easy feat to try to find your friends at peak times. Saying that it is a great venue with its own unique vibe.
Sunday roasts are popular in this Dublin pub, so arrive early to snag a table and get ready for a top feed!
Address: 2 Suffolk Street, Dublin 2, D02 KX03
2. The Old Spot – for a Michelin-star roast
The Old Spot is a gastropub in Dublin 4, on the Southside of the city. This is a true local’s favourite.
In fact, it is one of only two gastropubs recognised in the Michelin “Eating out in Pubs” Guide in 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019!
An exclusive menu exists here on a Sunday. Offering everything from dry-aged ribeye and roast Atlantic cod, to pork belly and vegetarian gnocchi, you’ll be spoiled for choice.
The venue itself fuses modern comfort with old-world charm. And, it makes for a fantastic place to catch up with friends over one of the best Sunday roasts in Dublin.
Address: 14 Bath Ave, Dublin 4, D04 Y726
1. The Exchequer – the top roast in Dublin
The top spot to enjoy a Sunday roast in Dublin is The Exchequer. It prides itself as being the “without doubt the best value, tastiest Sunday lunch in town.”
Running from 12 noon until 9pm every Sunday this roast highly sought-after and bookings are necessary.
The Exchequer has put solid hours into working its way to the top of the totem pole on the Sunday dinner scene in Dublin. And clearly, the hard work has paid off: it’s bloody delicious!
The Exchequer is another gastropub and is laid-back and contemporary with tonnes of beers and a great atmosphere.
Address: 3-5 Exchequer St, Dublin 2
