Irish food is having an extended moment—and it’s time to dig in. Visit Ireland to find a food lover’s paradise, where traditional recipes are enlivened by contemporary techniques. You’ll start with fresh mussels at Galway’s food markets, move south to savour some Dingle seafood, and dine at one of Dublin’s Michelin-starred restaurants… the world is your oyster.

Aer Lingus is your pathway to Ireland’s incredible culinary scene; regular connections to the island will have you tasting your way through this food-filled destination in no time. Nourishing the soul as much as the stomach, Ireland’s food scene offers a blend of tradition, innovation and warmth in every bite. Are you ready to get stuck in?

A gateway to Ireland’s culinary heart

Your journey begins in Dublin, a capital city that vibrates with energy and creativity. Known for its warm welcome and vibrant atmosphere, Dublin is the perfect place to get under the surface of Ireland’s dining culture. Stroll through Temple Bar Food Market on a Saturday morning, where artisanal cheeses, baked goods and fresh produce offer a delicious introduction to the flavours of this island nation. For a more celebratory experience, book a table at the legendary Chapter One, where Michelin-starred cuisine meets Irish storytelling on a plate.

Before you depart the city for greener pastures, take a moment to toast your trip with a pint at the Guinness Storehouse. You’ll learn the art of pouring the perfect pint and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the Gravity Bar—proof that even a simple pint can be an experience in Ireland.

The Guinness Storehouse, Dublin

Into the west: Galway and the Wild Atlantic Way

From Dublin, head west to Galway, a city renowned for music, charm and incredible seafood. Start your day with breakfast or lunch at ArdBia, a cosy and stylish eatery tucked beside the iconic Spanish Arch. Known for its seasonal menus, hearty dishes and delicious cake, ArdBia is the perfect spot to fuel up before exploring the city. Wander through the Galway Market, sampling fresh oysters and smoked salmon as street performers provide the soundtrack to your visit. If you visit Ireland in September, don’t miss the Galway International Oyster Festival, a world-famous celebration of Irish seafood.

Moving south along the epic Wild Atlantic Way, you’ll discover the Dingle Peninsula, where culinary and cultural delights collide. In Dingle town, The Fish Box offers a seafood experience that’s as fresh as it gets. This family-owned establishment sources seafood directly from their own trawler; their signature Fish Box, featuring a selection of the day’s catch, is not to be missed.

For a completely different experience, step into the iconic Dick Mack’s Pub and Brewery, a world-famous spot that blends traditional Irish charm with unexpected bonuses. Known not only for its cosy atmosphere and fine pints, Dick Mack’s also boasts an on-site brewery and a leather workshop, making it a unique destination for a drink and a bit of local history. First opened in 1899, it’s still the kind of place where you’ll find both visitors and locals swapping stories over a Guinness.

Or head to The Chart House, a charming upmarket spot that elevates Irish ingredients with imaginative flair. Known for its intimate atmosphere and lovely service, The Chart House delivers dishes like local lamb with a Guinness jus or pan-seared scallops that showcase the best of the region.

For more inspiration for your Ireland trip, take our visual tour of the stunning Wild Atlantic Way.

The Fishbox, Dingle, Kerry

Uncover your roots with a taste of heritage

Visitors to Ireland often feel connected to the island through ancestry, and what better way to explore your roots than through food? In County Clare, visit Bunratty Folk Park, where you can experience life in a traditional Irish village, complete with freshly baked soda bread and hearty Irish stew.

The Burren Smokehouse in nearby Lisdoonvarna offers a modern twist on heritage; their speciality is artisanal smoked salmon made using traditional techniques. While in the area, stop by the award-winning Gregan’s Castle Hotel for an elegant meal celebrating local, seasonal ingredients—a fitting tribute to Ireland’s natural larder.

The Cliffs of Moher, Clare

Raising a glass to your Ireland adventure

Ireland’s food culture isn’t just about food; its drinks are just as legendary. No trip is complete without a visit to a whiskey distillery, and Teeling Distillery in Dublin offers a modern twist on a traditional experience. Sample award-winning whiskies and learn the history of this iconic spirit.

For craft beer lovers, Galway Bay Brewery offers a variety of creative brews that will challenge your assumptions about Irish beer. Try Of Foam and Fury, a double IPA that packs a punch, or the lighter Bay Ale, perfect for a chilly afternoon in a cosy pub.

For more Galway inspiration, read our guide to one of Ireland’s most fascinating counties.

A taste of the south: Cork, Kilkenny and a Dungarvan detour

Heading south, you’ll find Cork, often dubbed the food capital of Ireland. Visit the English Market, a treasure trove of local produce, artisan cheeses, and world-famous butter. Take a seat at Farmgate Café, perched above the market, and enjoy dishes that highlight the best of the day’s offerings.

From Cork, travel to Kilkenny, a medieval city that combines history and hospitality. Browse local bakeries, traditional pubs and coffeeshops, but save enough time for lunch at Arán Bakery & Bistro, named in 2024 as one of the Irish Times ‘100 great restaurants and places to eat around Ireland this summer’. Wrap up your day with a meal at Ristorante Rinuccini, a much-loved Italian landmark, where you’ll dine with views of Kilkenny Castle.

While in the southeast, it’s worth detouring to Dungarvan in County Waterford, a town quickly earning a reputation as a foodie haven. Here, The Tannery, founded by Máire and Paul Flynn, offers an exceptional dining experience. Known for its fresh Waterford produce and ever-changing menus, The Tannery has become a beacon of gastronomic excellence since opening in 1997.

For a more casual but equally memorable meal, stop by Merry’s Gastropub, a local favourite. With its cosy atmosphere and a menu brimming with seasonal dishes (including hearty seafood chowder and locally sourced meats) Merry’s is the perfect spot to refuel after exploring the area.

Finally, don’t leave Dungarvan without visiting Dún Bakery, a treasure trove of artisan baked goods. From flaky croissants to raspberry and pistachio brownies, this bakery showcases the craft of small-batch baking at its finest. Whether you’re grabbing a snack for the road or settling in with a coffee and a sweet treat, Dún Bakery is now a Dungarvan landmark.

The Tannery Restaurant, Dungarvan, Co.Waterford

Sweet endings and scenic sips

Back in the east of Ireland, head to County Wicklow, known as the Garden of Ireland, for a sweet ending to your trip. Wicklow’s Avoca Handweavers isn’t just a shopping destination; it’s home to a café serving hearty salads and sandwiches and gorgeous treats like sticky toffee pudding.

For a final toast to your journey, visit Glendalough Distillery, where they craft gin and whiskey inspired by the surrounding mountains and lakes. Their seasonal gins, infused with foraged botanicals, offer a unique flavour of Ireland’s landscape.

Ready to go?

From farm-to-fork feasts to coastal gems, Ireland is calling and your next great meal is waiting. With Aer Lingus offering regular flights from the USA to Dublin and beyond, your culinary adventure is just a few clicks away. Ready to taste the magic of Ireland? Book your flight to Ireland, pack your appetite and let the adventure begin.