Ciara McQuillan finds the best outdoor food markets to enjoy in the sun this weekend
Is it summer? It is certainly starting to feel like it and nothing spells summer like an afternoon meandering around a food market. Whether you are craving ice cream, paella, fresh vegetable or falafel, these are the markets that will scratch that itch.
Bushy Park
Every Saturday from 10am-4pm. Bushy Park springs to life with a variety of stalls serving food and drink of every persuasion. Crepes, falafel, paella, burgers, Polish pierogi and pizza, you name it, they have it. If you are feeling extra energetic, outdoor yoga could be for you and craft stalls are perfect for Saturday afternoon browsing. www.dublincity.ie Image; @thedrunkencookie97
Merrion Square Market
Every Thursday, from 11.30 – 2.30pm, Merrion Square transforms into a mecca for food lovers with a lunchtime offering that annihilates the supermarket sandwich competition. Expect paella, handmade dumplings, proper hot dogs and Korean street food. There is also ramen, stuffed baked potatoes and classic fish and chips so go hungry and my advice, keep Thursday afternoons relatively clear. www.merrionsquaremarket.ie Image; @bulletrestaurant
Naomh Olaf Farmers Market, Sandyford
Naomh Olaf market keeps a low profile, but if your know, you know. Every Friday from 8.30am – 12.30pm, the market is the place to be to stock up on weekly essentials. Fill your basket to the bril with fresh fish, butter, cheeses fruit and veg from McNallys farm, baked goods from Bread41 and lots and lots of coffee. Its the perfect Friday morning activity to start your weekend on the right foot. www.naomholaf.ie
Red Stables at St. Annes Park
Every Saturdays from 10am to 4pm you will find a large variety of stalls at Red Stables Market in St. Annes Park, located between Raheny and Clontarf on Dublin’s Northside. The two-storey Victorian building houses craft studios and a commercial art gallery while the food stalls are open air. Again, there is a great selection of fresh fruit and vegetables and if you are hungry, there are tacos, noodles, crepes, handmade chocolates, homemade cookies and lots and lots of cake. www.dublincity.ie
Herbert Park, Dublin
On Dublin’s south side, Herbert Park is home to a food market that might well be the best in Dublin. Open on Sundays from 11am-4pm, the large duck ponds and the playgrounds, make for a perfect afternoon out for all the family. Food wise, you will be spoiled for choice with the selection of fresh vegetables, meats, organic eggs and farmhouse butter and cheese and for instant food gratification, there is plenty to choose from. The park is also home to football pitches, tennis courts, boules and croquet courts so the activity options are endless. www.dublincity.ie
Other markets to consider this weekend are Airfield Estate Farmers Market www.airfield.ie Ballbriggan Farmers Market www.iomst.ie on Friday mornings, Temple Bar Market on Saturdays www.templebarmarkets.com and the Faem shop at Beechpark Eco Farm in Dublin 15 www.beechparkfarm.com