I don’t know about you, but I find choosing a restaurant harder than picking something to watch on Netflix.
It can often be the same process too; I look up a million places on Instagram and can’t be arsed making an informed decision so I just go back to the old reliables.
Well, recently, it’s gotten a little easier.
Though I might not know exactly what I’m in the mood for, I know that there is one street in particular that I’m going to and will sort me out every time. The restaurants on this street are seriously good, if not the best around in my opinion, and there’s also a plethora of choice, setting and genre.
Last time I couldn’t make up my mind, I just headed in the direction of this particular foodie heaven and once I got there I made a quick and easy decision.
If you haven’t guessed by now, I’m talking about Aungier Street.
What was once a bit of a grimy area with many vacant, dusty buildings is now a thriving street hosting some of the best culinary talents in the city.
Because I luv ye’s, I’ve compiled a little food tour for you, a bucket list/food crawl, if you will.
Here are the places you need to try:
Chimac
Let me start by telling you about the magical foodie triangle on Aungier Street. Right across the street from one another, you’ll find my three fave eats – Chimac, Uno Mas and Lucky Tortoise.
Chimac is a Korean-style chicken joint at 76 Aungier Street. The restaurant serves up chicken sandwiches (burgers) and chicken pieces including wings, thighs, boneless bits and a vegan option.
After heading down for a first look, I couldn’t wait to go back and I did exactly that last week. I have to say, I actually think it was even better this time around – the flavours in the meat and toppings are insane.
I wasn’t even that hungry and I found myself almost licking the plate once I had finished.
As well as the unreal grub, Chimac serves up frosé and Jinto, which is a frozen wine and grapefruit cocktail. It’s unreal and will be such a vibe on sunny days in the city.
Uno Mas
Uno Mas, sister restaurant to Etto, creates a winning menu that is a riff on tapas.
The venue boasts a long interior with high ceilings and classic decor.
Chef Paul McNamara, formerly of Locks, runs the show and the staff are all on top of their game. The menu is divided into snacks, starters, mains and desserts, all offering interesting flavour pairings.
The provenance is key in Uno Mas. Everything right down to the olive oil is given its due consideration.
Since its opening late last year, this place has been absolutely buzzing every single night without fail – it’s still pretty difficult to get a booking. It’s the ideal spot for date night or any kind of special occasion and deffo a meal you’ll remember.
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Crispy pork trotter, smoked eel, salt baked kohlrabi, apple and horseradish. #yurt #thatsgoodhurling
Lucky Tortoise
Another popular Dublin eatery that is rammed every night of the week.
This mecca of Asian inspired cuisine has become a favourite among Dubin foodies for its sound staff, tunes and delicious sharing plates.
Inside, it’s pretty cosy. There’s a handful of tables on the ground floor and then a bench area with about six stools for solo eaters. The décor is simple but effective – dark walls, trendy hanging lights and plants on every ledge.
The food is what really does the talking, however. If you’re heading in, grab a mate and order the all-in. 20 squids will get you a load of delicious bits including gyozas and baos.
This is by far one of my all-time fave places for grub in Dublin, period.
Dublin Pizza Company
Dublin Pizza Company has become a bit of an institution for pizza lovers across the city.
When you’re on the go and you want to pick up something tasty, there’s no place better. You’ll be able to watch your food being prepared and cooked right in front of you.
These guys know how to make a good pizza and we love them for it.
Pang
Just a hop, skip and jump from Aungier Street is Dublin’s first rice paper roll restaurant, Pang.
Aquamarine glossy tiles run along the counter in the teenchy venue with pops of pink. A row of simple wooden seats face the long window and despite the restaurant consisting pretty much of an order counter and one long window ledge, it feels more sophisticated than it sounds.
Pang is the brainchild of Barry Wallace, who after opening several restaurants in Belgium and London, has partnered with chef turned entrepreneur Colm O’Brien to bring his latest concept to his home town.
There’s fresh rice paper rolls, steaming hot pho and home baked bánh mì sandwiches.
Reinventing the traditional Vietnamese rice paper roll, Pang delivers a menu that is packed with punchy flavours, quirky ingredient combos and sassy sauces.
Network
This sleek venue on Kevin Street is a coffee addict’s dream.
This is a hub for Dublin creatives and they can often be spotted flocking together over a bunch of flat whites, dogs by their side, ideas flowing – a very, very cool spot indeed.
Match that with some of the whopper grub on the menu and you’re onto a winner.
Lucky Duck
An elegant neighbourhood bar that’s been made shiny and new again, The Lucky Duck is spread over three floors.
Entering the ground floor, through the original entrance columns, you will be welcomed into a traditional Victorian style pub, complete with a large and bright snug to the front with a long copper-topped bar and a terrace area to the rear.
Such a deadly spot for post work pints.
This is hands-down the best street in town for food!
