Half price wine, birria tacos, caviar crisps, lobster and 99s. What more could a summer body ask for? …
Peaches Brasserie, Nassau Street, Dublin 2
Twenty years after KC Peaches first opened its doors, the Dublin favourite has grown up. The newly launched Peaches Brasserie marks a move beyond breakfasts and takeaway salads into all day dining, with a more polished feel and a menu designed to keep you there well into the evening. The big draw is the Josper grill, bringing smoky flavour to steaks, sharing plates and seasonal dishes. Whether you’re stopping by for shakshuka in the morning or something from the grill later in the day, it’s an exciting new chapter for one of the city’s longest running success stories.
The Upper Terrace At The Merrion, Dublin 2
There are few prettier places to spend an afternoon than The Merrion’s Upper Terrace. Hidden behind Georgian townhouses, it feels wonderfully removed from the bustle of the city, making it an easy choice for a leisurely lunch or an early evening glass of something chilled. Returning favourites include the indulgent lobster and crab roll with the hotel’s signature caviar and crisps, while this summer sees the arrival of The Merrion 99, a playful take on Ireland’s favourite ice cream complete with a Cadbury Flake. Pair it with a crisp rosé, glass of Champagne or one of The Merrion’s house-infused gins and hope the weather gets the memo.
The Seafood Café, Temple Bar, Dublin 2
Lobster season has officially landed at The Seafood Café and there are few better excuses to play hooky from the office. Throughout July from 12pm to 4pm, the restaurant is serving half a Lambay Island lobster with a glass of white Rioja for €35. It’s exactly the sort of midweek lunch that will brighten up an otherwise dull week, without breaking the bank. Fresh Irish lobster and a crisp glass of wine in one of Ireland’s best seafood restaurants – if July is all about making the most of summer, this feels like an excellent place to start.
The Ivy, Dawson Street, Dublin 2
Three little words: half price wine. This is one of those rare offers that needs very little explanation. Until July 19, diners at The Ivy Dawson Street can enjoy all bottles of wine and Champagne at 50% off, making that bottle you’ve been eyeing on the wine list suddenly feel considerably more achievable. Whether it’s a leisurely lunch that accidentally rolls into dinner or simply a reason to linger over another glass on the terrace, this is one of the better dining deals of the summer. Sometimes just knowing that someone else is picking up half the wine bill is a reason in itself to visit!
Vada, Stoneybatter, Dublin 7
Already one of Stoneybatter’s most talked about neighbourhood restaurants, Vada is expanding its evening offering and is now open for dinner from Wednesday to Saturday, giving even more opportunities to experience one of Dublin’s most exciting young kitchens. The menu changes with the seasons, but expect inventive, produce-driven cooking, from alla vodka meatballs and Skeaghanore duck with peach kimchi to Higgins flank steak with romesco or scallops with asparagus and pearl barley risotto. Add a thoughtful wine list and a relaxed atmosphere, and this is one reservation that deserves to move higher up your wishlist.
Park Lane Deli, Chapelizod, Dublin 20
If your idea of a perfect evening involves long tables and beautifully seasonal food, book quickly. On July 12, Galway chef Pam Chalecka brings her much-loved Babysis pop-up to Park Lane Deli in this pretty village for a one night only collaboration. Known for her California-inspired farm-to-table cooking, Pam has built a loyal following through sell out pop-ups at Evergreen, Marlowe & Co and Lilliput Stores. This collab features five sharing plates for two, built around the best seasonal produce, with tickets including a welcome spritz. One for those who like discovering the next big thing before everyone else …
La Cocina Cuevas, Naul, Co Dublin
If July calls for a countryside drive, make it one with tacos at the end. Tucked away at Finger Crossed Farma farm, chef Jeremy Cuevas has built a loyal following for his California-inspired take on Mexican food, served in an outdoor setting that’s a world away from the city. Expect birria tacos, burritos, brunch and vibrant Cali-Mex cooking made with local produce. If you insist on a bricks and mortar dining space, head to Dempsey’s Bar in Balbriggan from Thursday to Sunday for bar snacks, tacos, cocktails and wine from La Cocina Cuevas. @dempseysbalbriggan
Avoca Kilmacanogue, Co Wicklow
If you’re looking for a reason to escape the hustle and bustle, Avoca’s Taste of Summer festival returns to Kilmacanogue on July 25 with an afternoon dedicated to good food, live music and chill vibes. The ticket includes a gourmet barbecue and cocktail, while more than 30 artisan producers including Grá Chocolates, Rívesci, Mitchell & Son Wines and Tae Tea will offer tastings throughout the day. There are cookery demonstrations, children’s entertainment and, as evening falls, music from ’80s tribute band Spring Break and a DJ. Think village fête, but with much better food. Just add floaty dress and straw hat to complete the aesthetic.