Our top choices for al fresco dining in true Irish summer style …
Cellar 22
A basement terrace might not conjure up images of a picturesque dining terrace, but happily Cellar 22 is not one to err on the side of caution. The diminutive basement space is magical on a summer evening and the concise menu is perfect for light summer dining. www.cellar22.ie
Fire
Possibly the most well positioned terrace in Dublin, Fire certainly has all bases covered when it comes to al fresco dining. The terrace has been extended dramatically over the past few years and offers elevated views over Dawson Street and the gardens to the front. There are also lots of shaded spaces should the glaring sun be too much. www.firesteakhouse.ie
Chez Max
A tiny corner of Paris beside Dublin Castle, Chez Max serves up old-school French bistro fare with a charming ambiance. Whether perched out front overlooking the castle, or in the small patio garden to the rear, all the classics feature on the menu from steak frites to coq au vin, with plenty of wine and cheese to round off your meal. www.chezmax.com
Osteria Lucio
It’s difficult to compete with the wonderfully atmospheric interior of Osteria Lucio, but the small yet perfectly formed terrace is where I want to be on a balmy summer evening. In an ideal world, I gorge on the suckling pig shoulder with onions, olives, roasted potato, spring leaf salad, and apple and horseradish sauce while sipping a cold Sicilian Vermentino. Heaven. www.osterialucio.com
La Maison
The outdoor terrace at La Maison is picture perfect with food to match. While dining here has always been reliably good, like fine wine it seems to improve with age. Perfect for dinner à deux, the sole (when on the menu) is delightful while the cote de boeuf makes for a more substantial meal. The epitome of a French bistro in the heart of Dublin. www.lamaisondublin.com
The Garden Room
Another city centre restaurant with a perfectly appointed outdoor terrace is Suesey Street beside the canal at Fitzwilliam Place. Dublin Bay prawns, seared steaks and an endless list of cocktails only add to the appeal, as does the cosy seating and outdoor heating if needed. www.sueseystreet.ie
MoLi Café
Leading into the Iveagh Gardens, The Commons courtyard garden is a pretty, secluded spot to enjoy all-day breakfast or lunch. A Reuben toastie with homemade lemonade is best enjoyed under the mammoth tree that dominates the space. www.moli.ie
Goats Gruff
It’s casual fare all the way with wood-fired sandwiches by day and wood-fired pizza by night. You can eat indoors at The Strawberry Hall, but all the summer fun takes place in the huge safari tent perched on the banks of the River Liffey. It’s rustic, charming and you would never believe you are a mere 7km from the city. www.goatsgruffdublin.com
Mermaid
A nifty former pop-up that’s become a mainstay of Monkstown village, Mermaid is the casual sibling to the more fanciful Bresson next door. The fully covered and heated terrace is the ideal place to enjoy fish and chips or jerk tacos, whatever the weather. www.mermaidmonkstown.ie
DeVilles
Beloved by locals and visitors alike, DeVilles was born out of a love of the ceremony of dining out, by brother and sister team David and Kim O’Driscoll. A true neighbourhood gem, enjoying steak frites and a glass of wine in the sun is one of life’s simple pleasures. www.devilles.ie
SEE MORE: 5 Bars And Restaurants Around Ireland For Summer Holidays