How Many Of These 8 Northside Hidden Gems Have You Visited?

mariemadden

From Monday to Friday, many of us become creatures of habit.

We go the same coffee shop for our daily fix, the same café for our lunch… you know the drill.

Unfortunately, this often means missing out on some of the coolest bars, restaurant and shops in our fair city so taking a wander off the beaten track at the weekend is an absolute essential.

Here are some of the best spots on the Northside that are definitely worth a visit this weekend…

1. Dublin Vintage Factory, Smithfield

Fashion fans and those with an eye for a bargain will absolutely love this new(ish) addition to Smithfield Square. Located in the old Flo’s Garage unit, it’s a treasure trove of vintage and pre-loved gear, with everything from funky neon woollen jumpers to fab suede jackets. Better still, the Factory works on a cost per kilo basis so you could find a whole new outfit for less than €20!

2. The Dog House, Howth

The list of reasons to visit Howth is so long that we couldn’t possible include it here but The Dog House is one of the most important ones. This funky spot is just beside the DART station and not only allows you to bring your furry friends, they encourage it!

It has a big fireplace for when the weather is cold and the menu features everything from wood-fired pizza and quesadillas to delicious chocolate brownies, served until 11pm.

3. Proper Order, Smithfield

You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to great coffee in this area, with Urbanity, Cinnamon, Love Supreme and Third Space all with a two minute walk. These guys are serious about their coffee and always have something new for you to try!

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4. Moloughneys, Clontarf

We’re always looking for great new places to eat and this gem in Clontarf is ideal for a little weekend jaunt. The main attraction here is that the kitchen is really passionate about showcasing the best produce that Ireland has to offer, resulting in dishes like Hot Smoked Goatsbridge Farm Trout and Free Range Naul Tamworth Belly & Loin Of Pork.

It’s also a great choice for vegetarians as there isn’t a boring veggie pasta dish in sight! Instead, diners can choose from a vegan-friendly Warm Pearl Barley with Carrot, Spinach and Toasted Walnuts or Courgette, Pepper and Broccoli Fritters with Roasted Chilli Chickpea Hummus and Macroom Feta. Delish!

5. Cotto, Manor Street

There are some very tasty places for pizza in Dublin but for our money, this one is up there with the best of them. The menu is small and focuses on Italian-style pizzas, fresh salads and a few tasty sides and sauces like beetroot hummus and confit garlic aoili.

The perfect place to grab some food, a glass of wine and have a good catch-up.

6. Tea Gardens, Ormond Quay

If you’re looking for a date night idea that doesn’t involve alcohol, this is the one for you. It’s really close to town and there’s a ton of cosy corners where you can settle in for the night. As the name suggests, it’s all about the tea with a full menu of weird and wonderful creations to try.

Better still, it’s only a stone’s throw from the brilliant Sin É so you can pop in and see some great live music once you’re finished with your herbal infusions.

7. The Hole In The Wall, Phoenix Park

Another D7 favourite, this is a haven for craft beer fans with a wide range of beers, gins and cocktails available. It also gets top marks on the gastropub scale, serving up a killer roast every Sunday. Ideal for the rollover!

8. Honest 2 Goodness, Glasnevin

There’s something lovely about hitting up a market at the weekend and stocking up on fresh food for the week, and this Glasnevin fixture is one of the best in town. Open every Saturday from 9.30am to 4pm, you’ll find local producers including Arun Bakery, Donegan Fish and Lilliput Trading Company all under one roof.