Dublin - Food & Drink

Eat Modern Irish cuisine in top hotels, slurp oysters with your Guinness in a gastro pub or feast on fresh fish by the sea.

The best choice of international cuisine, like French fusion and Italian, is around Temple Bar and Trinity. Although a famous nightlife haunt, it's also easy to find cosy neighbourhood bistros and designer chic in historic buildings.

Forget stereotypes of Irish stodge. Potato soup comes laced with truffle oil in the streets around St Stephen's Green, where modern dishes are served in stylish settings and revamped wine bars. Expect plenty of oysters, parmesan shavings and a decent wine list.

Nip on a DART to the seaside for a pan-fried fillet of fresh cod or squid with rock salt and chilli. The coastline around Howth, swanky Dalkey (try spotting U2 members) and Blackrock makes a great evening out with sea air, scallops and smoked salmon.

The smart local set head for the southern suburbs of Ballsbridge and Portobello for plush hotel dining and cuisines from all over the world.

Temple Bar and Trinity have the largest and most lively choice of eateries. Most restaurants add a service charge of 12.5%, so if it's not included, tip about the same. Dress is casual except at the smartest restaurants. Make a reservation at the top restaurants if you want to eat there on Friday or Saturday. Eating out is pricey but the quality of the food is worth it.