Do you have a birthday, anniversary, graduation, or other special occasion coming up? Ireland boasts a fantastic selection of food restaurants that offer unforgettable dining experiences. Whether you prefer an intimate Michelin-starred setting, a seafood feast by the coast, or a farm-to-table experience, there’s a perfect place to celebrate.
Here are 18 of the best restaurants in Ireland for a special occasion meal.
1. Homestead Cottage, Co Clare
Tucked away near Doolin, Homestead Cottage offers an intimate and warm atmosphere, where the focus is entirely on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The restaurant’s Michelin-starred tasting menu is both adventurous and nostalgic, making it a perfect spot for marking a milestone.
2. Variety Jones, Dublin 8
For an exclusive and intimate experience, Variety Jones is a must-visit. The chefs curate a surprise seven-course menu that highlights the best Irish ingredients. Its cosy setting makes it ideal for an anniversary or a romantic evening.
3. Out of the Blue, Dingle, Co Kerry
Seafood lovers will adore Out of the Blue in Dingle. This restaurant serves fresh-off-the-boat fish in a stunning harbour-side setting. Their crab claws are a must-try, and dining al fresco here on a summer’s day is an experience like no other.
4. Ox, Belfast
Ox in Belfast delivers a sophisticated Michelin-starred dining experience with a creative seasonal tasting menu. Its vibrant yet elegant atmosphere makes it a perfect place to celebrate with family or friends.
5. Supper Club at Kilruddery Estate, Co Wicklow
Set in the beautiful Kilruddery Estate, this supper club offers a four-course menu inspired by seasonal produce from the estate’s farm. The experience is refined yet relaxed, making it a perfect setting for a special dinner.
6. St Francis Provisions, Kinsale, Co Cork
This small yet lively restaurant in Kinsale delivers an ever-changing menu filled with personal and eclectic dishes. It’s the kind of place where each visit feels unique, making it great for multiple celebrations.
7. Host, Ranelagh, Dublin 6
Hard to book but worth the effort, Host offers an Italian-inspired sharing menu that’s perfect for an intimate gathering. Their chef’s menu (€53 per person) highlights the best of seasonal ingredients.
8. Note, Dublin 2
This modern bistro and wine bar is fantastic for larger groups, offering high-quality, Irish-influenced small plates designed for sharing.
9. Ruibín, Galway City
A hidden gem near Galway City Quays, Ruibín offers a cosy yet refined dining experience with a bistro-style menu that highlights fresh, local produce.
10. Connolly’s, Kinvara, Co Galway
With two dining experiences—an upstairs fine-dining restaurant and a gastro music bar downstairs—Connolly’s showcases traditional Irish flavours with a modern twist.
11. Wilde’s at The Lodge, Ashford Castle, Co Mayo
Chef Jonathan Keane’s carefully curated menu at Wilde’s highlights freshly picked ingredients from the estate’s gardens. The picturesque setting overlooking Lough Corrib adds to the charm.
12. The Tannery, Dungarvan, Co Waterford
An iconic Irish restaurant since 1997, The Tannery is known for its contemporary take on classic Irish cuisine. Start your evening with a drink in their wine bar before enjoying an expertly crafted meal.
13. Ichigo Ichie, Co Cork
For a special occasion with a twist, Ichigo Ichie offers a Japanese-inspired dining experience with beautifully presented sharing plates, rice bowls, and hand-pulled buckwheat noodles.
14. The Oak Room, Adare Manor, Co Limerick
Located in one of Ireland’s most luxurious hotels, The Oak Room is a Michelin-starred restaurant offering exquisite contemporary Irish cuisine.
15. Linnane’s Lobster, New Quay, Co Clare
Enjoy fresh lobster straight from the sea while overlooking the small fishing boats in New Quay. This spacious and relaxed seafood haven is perfect for a celebratory feast.
16. Kai, Galway
A must-visit in Galway, Kai serves vibrant, organic, and locally sourced dishes. Their creative desserts and casual-yet-chic atmosphere make it a fantastic spot for a birthday dinner.
17. Kicky’s, Dublin 2
Led by renowned chef Eric Matthews, Kicky’s offers fire-cooked meats and Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Their fresh crab Cacio e Pepe is a standout.
18. Raspberry, Gorey, Co Wexford
Perfect for larger groups, Raspberry boasts a lively atmosphere, an excellent cocktail menu, and a diverse food selection ranging from tacos to fresh local seafood.
Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, planning a romantic dinner, or simply looking to treat yourself, these restaurants offer some of the best dining experiences in Ireland.
