The Dean
33 Harcourt St
Dublin 2
I rarely, if ever, stay in fancy hotels. Air bnb and hostels are my usual port of call. But when a trip to Dublin was on the cards, I knew I had to make a night at The Dean happen. The funky styling of the rooms had caught my attention ages ago on Instagram. I booked a ‘SupeRoom’ and requested to be in the quieter area of the hotel. As well as being located next door to Coppers, there’s a bar on the ground floor and a restaurant on the top level, so I was worried about the noise levels. But actually it was fine in my room, and earplugs ensured a peaceful nights sleep. The room definitely lived up to my expecatations. A record player, Smeg fridge, Marshall amp and Netflix were just some of the perks. And a really good shower.
Sophie’s @ The Dean
33 Harcourt St
Dublin 2
I had breakfast at Sophie’s before checking out of The Dean. The 360 degree views over Dublin, cool interiors and delicious French Toast means I will definitely be back. I imagine it would be really good at night for dinner. Or drinks on the roof terrace in the summer.
The Port House
64A South William St
Dublin 2
Where do I start? My first dinner at the Port House was a revelation. It kick started a new love of Spanish tapas and furthered my addiction to patatas bravas. The food is bursting with flavour. The portions are small, so go for two or three things on the menu. Or better yet, order a list of different dishes to share. And go for the Churros for dessert – you won’t regret it.
The Market Bar
14A Fade St
Dublin 2
Another tapas restaurant. And equally as tasty. The portion sizes are larger so it’s definitely best to order a few dishes to share. If you’re waiting for a table, there’s a speakeasy cocktail bar upstairs that I’ve heard great things about.
Often the highlight of a trip home. The best hot chocolate in Ireland. A white hot chocolate (no cream) and a white chocolate truffle is my standard order. What I wouldn’t do to have one right now. My dream is for Butlers to open a cafe in London. PLEEEAASEEE.
