The year 2016: 12 glorious months packed full of tasty treats, amazing meals and delicious spreads.
Yes, in recent times, the food scene in Dublin has really exploded, with more and more trendy cafes and stunning restaurants cropping up on an almost weekly basis.
And while getting down our list to just ten entrants was certainly a struggle, here is SHEmazing!'s pick of the crop…
1. Mulberry Garden
Hidden down a small lane in Donnybrook, Mulberry Garden is no secret spot, but it remains year after year one of Dublin’s best restaurants. Its chic atmosphere and wonderful food make it a great date place for food lovers.
2. Manifesto
Sometimes, all you need is a really, REALLY good pizza. And on that topic, Manifesto delivers. If you have never tried the “Mamy”, (awarded best pizza in the world in 2006), a trip to this small joint off Rathmines Road is almost mandatory. If only they did takeaway…
3. Forest Avenue
This foodie favourite has mastered the concept of casual gastronomy. With a three-course lunch for €32 – including a few stunning appetisers – Forest Avenue offers one of the best priced meal in town. Refined without being uptight, this restaurant combines well-sourced produces and the creativity of chef John Wyer whose talent is second-to-none.
4. Richmond
It didn’t take long for Richmond to become one of our favourite places in Portobello. With an incredible tasting menu for just €30 on Tuesday evenings, the chef, David O'Byrne, formerly of Mulberry Garden, has impressed with beautiful and inventive plates.
5. Bunsen
Between its three locations in the city centre, Bunsen is selling burgers like they are going out of fashion, and it only seems legit. For just a few euro more than a fast-food eatery, you can get the best cheeseburger in town. And the sweet potato fries are probably the most delicious we have ever tasted.
6. Amuse
On the opposite side of the scale, Amuse offers a fine-dining experience at its best. If you like your plates to look like artwork and your food to taste like heaven, this fabulous French restaurant is a must. Now, this level of refinement comes at a price but for a special occasion, you will have a truly unforgettable time.
7. Brother Hubbard North/Brother HubbardSouth
Formerly Sister Sadie, Brother Hubbard South and its older sister Brother Hubbard North have received several accolades over the past four years and we can only concur to the praise. We love the Middle Eastern-influenced cuisine boasting lots of fresh and healthy food at a great price. Will we continue to queue for brunch into 2017? YES!
8. Fia
Talking about the best brunch in town, Fia is a serious contestant. This small cafe down Rathgar Road offers a short and straightforward menu, which is for the best as it’s always a struggle to pick from it. With Instagram-friendly dishes that taste like a million dollars for less than a tenner, Fia got us properly addicted.
9. Asador
This sleek eatery is Dublin 4 turned barbecue into a classy experience. You can find lovely seafood in the menu but its the meats grilled over charcoal that made the reputation of the place. Excellent food, good service and beautiful setting all contribute to a wonderful meal.
10. Featherblade
If you are looking for a great steak at an affordable price, Featherblade is the place to go. We love the casual atmosphere, perfect for a dinner with friends, and the meat there is simply delicious. Again, the menu is short, and we suggest you try all the sides available as they are all delightful.
