Dublin is a wonderful spot for fine dining because not only does it draw upon a rustic local culinary tradition, it also takes inspiration from countries far and wide. So whether you want to experience a hearty Irish dinner or a modern French supper, you won't have to look far.
If you're taking a client out to dinner, consider one of these impressive dining spots:
1. L. Mulligan Grocer
This traditional, 20th-century Irish pub has been updated for the modern era, but that doesn't mean it's lost any of its old world charm. Located in Stoneybatter, this eatery is a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach. The interior features rich leather seating in the lounge area, and a polished wood bar runs the length of one wall.
The menus change seasonally, so you'll always have something fresh and flavorful to choose. The restaurant serves sirloin steak, pan roasted chicken, turnip croquettes, fillet of trout and braised venison, among others. Make sure to leave room for dessert, too. Mulligan's serves traditional Irish cheese boards as well as sticky figgy and cardamom pudding.
2. Trocadero
This fine dining establishment has made Dublin its home for over 50 years. Trocadero quickly established itself as the premier dining spot for theatre-goers and stage actors alike, and continues to be a staple establishment among the Dublin's theatre connoisseurs.
The interior of the restaurant is bathed in warm light, which reflects off the gilt furnishings, opulent glasses and polished wood floors. Diners enjoy comfortable, banquet-style seating among the art nouveau style decorations.
Trocadero offers two group menus, an a la carte menu and a selection of pre-theatre dishes. Starters include chicken liver pate and double-smoked salmon. Among the curated selection of main dishes, diners will find barbary duck breast with port wine jus, baked fillet of hake and dry-aged sirloin steak.
3. Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud
For an authentic French dining experience, there's no need to hop across the channel. In Dublin, you'll find all the French cuisine you could ever want at the Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud. Located just a block from the National Gallery of Ireland and across the street from the National Museum, Guilbaud has a stately exterior and a lavish, yet tasteful dining room.
For over 30 years, the restaurant has served some of the most forward-thinking fine dining experiences, such as blue lobster ravioli coated in a coconut scented lobster cream. Fish makes up a significant part of the menu, but the Guilbaud also serves staples such as lamb fillet, caramelised veal sweetbread and roasted Antrim partridge.
4. Shanahan's On The Green
For American-style steak in an elegant dining room, look no further than Shanahan's on the Green. The Green in the name refers to the beautiful park across the street, St. Stephen's Green, which features an ornamental lake and sculptures.
Shanahan's is located in a Georgian townhouse that is over 250 years old. The house is filled with impressive antiques. But don't think the decoration outshines the food, because every dish is full of flavor and presented with style.
The steak is American in style, but Irish in breeding. Indeed, all main course steaks are certified Irish Angus beef. The meat is cooked at between 1,600 and 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit to perfectly sear the outside and keep the center tender and juicy.
5. Fish Shop
Looking for a delicious meal but want to skip out on the fancy decorations? Try Fish Shop, the appropriately named stripped-down eatery located near the Jameson distillery near the River Liffey. An intimate location with white-washed brick walls and bar seating, Fish Shop serves amazing seafood plates and a rotating selection of fine wines.
Diners can start with a new take on a classic dish: Tempura oysters in a chilli-lime sauce. Then, try some grilled scallops with seaweed butter or a classic plate of fish and chips. The wine selection might be a little intimidating for some, so don't be shy about asking the staff for a recommendation.
If you're going around dinnertime, it may be wise to call ahead, as this small space fills up quickly with diners looking for the best fish in Dublin.