Greetings, beloved café connoisseurs and seekers of delightful dining experiences! I invite you to join us on a veritable feast of discovery as we unravel the tapestry of flavours that is Dublin's bistro café scene.
Today, we shan’t merely settle for the ordinary; instead, we embark on an exclusive gastronomical adventure, diving deep into the culinary heart of Dublin in order to uncover those hidden gems that make this city such a haven for foodies.
We’ve done our homework and have prepared a list of the 10 Best Bistro Cafes in Dublin, just for you. From cozy hidden corners to bustling hotspots known for their delectable bites, we’ve got it all covered. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast, a pastry aficionado, or simply someone who enjoys a delicious meal in a lovely atmosphere, we’re certain you’ll find something that tickles your fancy in our top-notch selection.
Contents
1 | Rea's Bistro
Specialities:
- Breakfast Burrito
- Eggs Benedict
- Chicken Goujons
- Buttermilk Chicken
Established by Italian native Osvaldo Rea, Rea’s Bistro is a family-owned restaurant deeply rooted in Dublin’s South inner city. Originally known for its traditional fish and chip shops, the eatery has since evolved into a remarkable bistro recognised for its quintessential full Irish breakfasts and hearty dinners.
With the reins now in the hands of the next-generation, Rea’s Bistro has successfully adapted to the changing times. The charming establishment now boasts an extensive menu, offering everything from freshly-brewed Arabica coffee, meticulously prepared by trained baristas, to a wide selection of brunch items.
Situated in the heart of Kimmage community, Rea’s Bistro prides itself on providing a welcoming, casual atmosphere while maintaining a strong commitment to serving authentic, flavoursome food. From their classic Irish breakfast to their delightful American-style pancakes, the restaurant’s culinary offerings represent a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation – a testament to their passion for elevating the dining experience for each and every guest.
Featured Review
"This is a great bistro and the menu is just right, everything needed for a hearty breakfast, brunch or lunch. The sandwiches, particularly the baked ham, are excellent. Loads of parking available, you can sit inside or out or get take away. The only thing I haven't tried is the pancakes but that's what all other tables seem to have when I go in!"
2 | Murphy's Bistro Cafe
Specialities:
- Full Irish Breakfast
- Turkish Breakfast
- Eggs Benedict
- Avocado Toast
Nestled in the lively heart of Dublin City Centre, Murphy’s Bistro Café proudly adheres to its culinary ethos of delivering freshly made, high-quality fare while maintaining exceptional hospitality. Devoted to providing remarkable value, the establishment’s wide-ranging menu caters to visitors of all tastes and preferences, whether they seek a satisfying breakfast or lunch, a delectable homemade burger, or a relaxed coffee and baked delight.
Upon setting foot in Murphy’s Bistro, situated on Bachelors Walk, patrons are warmly welcomed by the amiable staff, who continuously strive to enhance the dining experience by incorporating customer feedback and suggestions. Combining a comfortable ambiance, refined touch, and appetising dishes, Murphy’s Bistro has become a cherished food destination for both everyday visits and memorable occasions in the bustling heart of Dublin City.
Featured Review
"What a wee Gem! Great location, the staff are so friendly and quick service. The food was amazing. I had eggs and toast, and my partner had the menemen. 10/10 would recommend. I think it's the best poached eggs I've ever had. We ended up going back the following day. Great value for money and the food was fresh and delicious. Shout out to the staff and chefs, great experience. P s. Coffee was delicious !"
3 | Chorus Cafe Bistro
Specialities:
- Fresh Baked Scone
- Eggs Rayal
- Mexican Chicken Rap
- Chorus Breakfast
Located in the bustling and renowned Temple Bar area, Chorus Cafe Bistro at 7 Fishamble St, Dublin 8 has been impressing customers since 2005 with their excellent coffee and freshly prepared dishes. This local independent café has become synonymous with a diverse and scrumptious menu, featuring an array of appetising offerings such as omelettes, hot food, freshly made sandwiches, paninis, and pastas.
However, the tempting options don’t stop here – Chorus Cafe Bistro’s in-house bakers have mastered the art of crafting homemade cakes and cookies, ensuring patrons are spoilt for choice when it comes to indulging their sweet tooth. Their dedication to quality and freshness is evident in every dish, and has helped to make the café a well-loved fixture in Dublin’s famous Temple Bar.
Chorus Cafe Bistro’s unwavering commitment to serving top-notch coffee and using the finest ingredients has resulted in a truly authentic Irish experience. As a proud local business, they continue to play a vital role within the Temple Bar community, providing a warm welcome and delicious flavours for all who step through their doors.
Featured Review
"This Bistro, Chorus Cafe, is a must visit when in Dublin. We stayed at a hotel close by and ended up having all of our breaksfasts here, every day for å whole week. It was the best start of the day we could've had. The food is delicious, lots of choiches, and the atmosfare is so relaxed and lovely. And the staff, so warm and welcoming, always doing their best for you to have a wonderful time with them. We highly recommend them! ❤️"
4 | Appatizers Bistro & Café
Specialities:
- Vegatizer Grill
- Besto Chicken Pesto
- Breakfast Blah
- Good Ol Ham & Cheese Toastie
In the heart of Ashtown, Dublin 15, lies a hidden gem known as Appatizers Bistro and Café. Situated in the scenic Royal Canal Park, this establishment has solidified itself as a popular spot for locals seeking a comfortable space to unwind and socialize.
At the core of Appatizers’ mission is the principle of fostering a welcoming environment for all customers. Their aim is to create a convivial atmosphere that is perfect for catching up with friends, enjoying a quiet read, or indulging in some cherished alone time.
A strong emphasis on fresh, quality ingredients is what truly sets Appatizers apart from the rest. Boasting a diverse menu, visitors can expect to find everything from mouth-watering pastries and invigorating coffee to hearty dinners and a recent addition of delectable pizzas. The friendly staff is always there to ensure that everyone enjoys their experience.
Over the years, Appatizers has adapted its business practices yet remained unwavering in upholding its core values. Focused on continuous improvement, they encourage patrons to provide feedback on their ever-evolving menu options. Their recent venture encompasses a retail section spotlighting gourmet foods and gifts, predominantly sourced from Irish suppliers and family-run businesses.
Featured Review
"Freshly prepared food to choose from the Mains, Burgers, Salads, Sandwiches with a small choice of vegetarian options available, and not forgetting the sweet treats, also have a specialised gift shop within, and excellent choice of wines to round of an early evening, as they close at 7pm."
5 | Bijou Bistro
Specialities:
- Full Irish Breakfast
- Beer Battered Haddock
- Chicken Liver Pate
- Organic Smoked Salmon
In the heart of Rathgar, the Bijou Bistro stands as a testament to the commitment and passion of its founders, Linda and Mark, who launched the establishment back in 1998. This delightful eatery sprouted from the seeds of their 1993 deli, and over the years, it has cultivated an unwavering focus on quality local food, exceptional coffee, and an overall delightful atmosphere.
The friendly faces that greet Bijou’s patrons are essential to its charm; John welcomes guests at the front of the house, while the talented chef Lorcan meticulously weaves culinary magic in the kitchen. Together, they create an unforgettable experience for patrons of all ages and tastes.
Sustainability plays a major role in Bijou Bistro’s vision, as they strive to consistently source ingredients from trusted Irish suppliers, fostering enduring relationships along the way. Bijou has blossomed into an attractive location for a diverse range of visits – a swift breakfast, a leisurely brunch, a warm family Sunday lunch, or a memorable evening of delectable cuisine, tantalising cocktails, and fine wines. The Bijou Bistro, standing proud in Rathgar, has carved out a niche for itself, offering delightful experiences for all who enter its doors.
Featured Review
"Bijou is very pretty restaurant, looks quite unassuming from the outside really, but the interior is very old school chic, from long before press-ups were a twinkle in the eye of the Dublin restaurant scene. And it’s because of that I wish the food was more ambitious, or focussed on the cuisine of one country. As it is it’s doing a grand job serving a standard pan European selection of bistro dishes, and it does that quite well, I just wish it greater sense of purpose than that!"
6 | Sparks Bistro
Specialities:
- Irish Breakfast Bap
- Full Irish Breakfast
- Eggs Benedict
- House Club Sandwich
n the heart of Smithfield Square, Dublin, a family-owned and operated gem known as Sparks Bistro has been delighting patrons since December 2014. Blending the best of Irish and Italian culinary traditions, the restaurant is led by a talented team backed by over 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry.
Famed for their mouth-watering Penne Carbonara and Spaghetti Pescatore, Sparks Bistro ensures that every dish, whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner, is prepared with care and quality. Complemented by an impressive wine list, locals and tourists alike have found the perfect spot to indulge in delicious Mediterranean cuisine.
Beyond its everyday offerings, Sparks Bistro expertly caters to a range of private events, from corporate meetings and intimate weddings to festive holiday celebrations. The warm and welcoming atmosphere combined with exceptional service makes Sparks Bistro a stand-out choice for those seeking a memorable dining experience.
To learn more about Sparks Bistro, visit them in person or contact them at 01 873 0003.
Featured Review
"What a treat for breakfast -- the best french toast and breakfast sausage I've ever had. Affordable, delicious and great service. We'll be back the next time we're in Dublin."
7 | Piccolo Bistro Caffe
Specialities:
- Caprese
- Tuna Salad
- Chicken Salad
- Gluten Free Bread
Nestled within The Park Shopping Centre, adjacent to the picturesque surroundings of Cabinteely Park, you’ll find the quaint family-owned Piccolo Bistro Caffè. Combining the charm of a traditional Irish coffee spot with some mouth-watering Italian cuisine, the bistro is a welcoming retreat for both locals and visitors alike.
Boasting over twenty indoor and a further ten outdoor seats, Piccolo Bistro Caffè offers an intimate and cosy ambience for patrons to linger over a rich Italian coffee or savour a glass of their finest wine. The menu caters to a range of preferences, with even the most discerning of food-lovers being tempted by the classic Irish breakfast or the selection of authentic Italian dishes.
With its warm atmosphere, sumptuous food and dedication to quality service, the Piccolo Bistro Caffè captures the essence of what makes local dining experiences truly special. So, whether you’re simply passing through or a Cabinteely Park regular, be sure to pay a visit for a delightful culinary treat that marries the best of both Irish and Italian hospitality.
Featured Review
"This Bistro Cafe is a hidden gem serving the most incredible authentic Italian food I have had in a very long time! The owners are Italian of course, which is testament to the delicious meals on offer and they could not be more friendly and accommodating! Highly recommend giving them a visit for dinner on the weekend!!"
8 | Peperina Garden Bistro
Specialities:
- Pancakes
- Pizza
- Pasta
- Breakfast Bap
In the charming neighbourhood of Ranelagh, South Dublin, lies a hidden culinary treasure – the Peperina Garden Bistro. With over ten years in operation, this local favourite has garnered a loyal following by offering an extraordinary blend of Irish and Argentinian flavours. Peperina Garden Bistro consistently serves mouth-watering dishes which have effortlessly put a unique twist on well-loved bistro classics.
Visitors to Peperina Garden Bistro can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the bistro’s south-facing terrace, whether they drop by for daily breakfast, lunch, or the renowned weekend brunch. Evening fare is also available from Thursday to Saturday, ensuring ample opportunities to sample their delectable offerings.
In a bid to widen its culinary horizon, Peperina Garden Bistro will soon unveil its sister restaurant, Peperina City Bistro, in Portobello come June 2023. By extending its winning formula combining Irish and Argentinian cuisine, Peperina City Bistro is poised to capture the hearts of a whole new clientele.
In an era dominated by cookie-cutter establishments, the Peperina duo remains committed to its mission of delivering authentic, high-quality dining experiences within the vibrant, welcoming atmosphere that has become synonymous with these bistros in Dublin’s culinary community.
Featured Review
"LOVELY BRUNCH SPOT in the middle of Rathmines. We popped in just after they opened at 9am. The staff were very friendly and efficient. We got Eggs Benedict, Baked Avocado & Eggs and pancakes for the kids. The food and coffee were excellent, and came out very quickly. They have a nice outdoor space to the rear."
9 | Metro Cafe
Specialities:
- Tuna Melt
- Smoked Salmon
- Eggs and Toast
- Pancakes
Nestled on a serene corner of Dublin’s bustling South William Street, Metro Café exudes the warmth of a local pub within the comforting embrace of a bistro setting. Established in 1996, this charming eatery – situated in an 18th-century coach building – has an uncanny ability to ground visitors in the essence of Dublin, whether through the enchanting architecture, spirited city life, or the ever-changeable Irish weather.
Inspired by its founders’ experience in New York’s hospitality scene and their European travels, Metro Café blossomed from a humble coffee nook into a bistro mainstay, proudly serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a much-loved all-day brunch menu. Alongside heartwarming meals, Metro offers an inviting selection of beers and wines designed to complement its relaxed and cozy ambiance.
True to its roots, the café embraces the city’s spirit, seamlessly melding its storied past into a gastronomic narrative that has become an inseparable part of Dublin’s culinary landscape.
Featured Review
"Really good spot for an all day breakfast. Our order for lost in the system so we had to wear a little longer than expected. They were very kind though and gave us free coffees to make up for any delay. I would definitely go back if I was on the lookout for a late breakfast. The breakfast buttie is sensational."
10 | Bristo Takeaway
Specialities:
- Smoked Cod Meal
- Pizza Kebab
- Chicken Burger Meal
- Hawaiian Pizza
Nestled within our local neighbourhood, one can find The Bistro Takeaway, a cherished establishment renowned for consistently serving delectable food and drinks straight to customers’ doorsteps. Adapting to modern technology, this business allows for a seamless ordering process via their dedicated website or an accessible app.
The Bistro Takeaway’s warm customer care echoes their core values of offering an exceptional experience while nurturing relationships with loyal clientele. First-time patrons are treated to a welcoming 20% discount on their initial online orders. In addition, devoted customers receive every 10th order free, based on the average of their past purchases.
With a steadfast commitment to gratifying its patrons’ appetites and fostering unforgettable culinary moments, The Bistro Takeaway holds a special place in the lives of Irish food enthusiasts. As the establishment continues to prosper and maintain its founding principles, locals can anticipate the ongoing presence of this esteemed eatery in the hearts of homes for countless years to follow.
Featured Review
"Always the best. Chips are so tasty and the rest of the food is good too of course. Little complaint though, last 2 times I got fresh cod the battery wasn't cooked properly or something, it was very doughy. But overall been coming here's years and it's lovely."