Dublin is known for bad weather, good people, and even better options to find your caffeine fix. Dublin’s blossoming coffee scene has become a beacon of hope for weary souls and jittery minds alike. With so many areas to explore, you’ll be happy to know that the perfect cup of coffee is never far away. And the ambience of these areas will make that coffee even more rewarding. We’ll provide you with the best areas in Dublin to chill out with fellow coffee aficionados, with a vibe that will match with pure enjoyment sip after sip.
Temple Bar: Immerse yourself in Dublin’s vibrant cultural scene with a visit to the Temple Bar district, a lively neighbourhood known for its eclectic mix of bars, cafes, art galleries, and street performers. Take a stroll along the cobblestone streets, stopping to browse quirky boutiques and cosy cafes along the way. Be sure to experience the lively atmosphere of Cróga, an independently-owned coffee shop and micro-roastery that opened in 2023. There’s no shortage of people-watching opportunities in Temple Bar as you enjoy your coffee and take in the eclectic surroundings.
Rathmines: It’s well worth the short hike, slightly south of the city centre, to the always charming Rathmines. Amidst the leafy streets and cosy boutiques, lies a treasure trove of coffee shops waiting to be discovered. Our favourite will always be Ernesto’s Café on Rathgar Road, which serves up the tastiest single-estate coffee and delectable artisan foods. It’s a small place but packed with goodness and the most attentive staff around. Grab a to-go cup and take a leisurely stroll through the nearby parks for the most perfect morning pick-me-up.
Portobello: Nestled along the scenic banks of the Grand Canal, Portobello exudes an old-world charm that’s hard to resist. And there’s no better way to enjoy the ambiance than with a steaming cup of coffee in hand. Whether you prefer to sip your espresso alfresco by the water or cozy up indoors with a good book, Portobello has you covered. The Fumbally is truly a neighbourhood joint. An eating and meeting place that cooks food from the heart, bakes its fresh bread daily, and takes its coffee very seriously. You’ll find artists chatting with executives and everything in between. Portobello will not disappoint with options and guarantees a nice experience.
Smithfield: For those seeking a taste of Dublin’s vibrant urban culture and a willingness to take their coffee drinking to a new level, look no further than Smithfield. This eclectic neighbourhood is a melting pot of creativity and also home to the Jameson Distillery. Located in the heart of the city, this historic distillery offers immersive tours that provide insight into the art of whiskey-making. Any proper Irish coffee drinker can tell you that
there’s nothing quite like an Irish coffee, a whiskey-laced coffee enjoyed from Irish coffee glasses. Smithfield is a must-visit destination for coffee lovers, whiskey enthusiasts, and history buffs alike.
Drumcondra: Last but certainly not least, we have Drumcondra, a hidden gem tucked away just north of the city centre. Despite its unassuming appearance, this neighbourhood boasts a thriving coffee culture. Wander down its tree-lined streets, and you’ll find a plethora of charming cafes. The Duck Cafe tops our list due to the fact that they are dog friendly with super cool staff. Oh and did we mention they serve the best oat flat white in all of Dublin? Take a detour off tourist row and pop on over to Drumcondra for a real taste of authentic Dublin.
Dublin’s coffee scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself, with each neighbourhood offering its own unique blend of flavours and ambience. Whether you’re savouring a latte in Temple Bar or spiking your coffee with whiskey in Smithfield, you’ll never be far from a nice cup of coffee in Dublin. If you’re adventurous, you can follow in the footsteps of Leopold Bloom from James Joyce’s iconic novel Ulysses while walking the streets of Dublin. Sometimes having no destination at all is the best way to enjoy a city. Lucky for you, there will be pleasant coffee in every place.
