I am a big fan of an early bird special. I understand restaurants have to make money but I think it is essential to have at least a mid week early bird menu option available. Going out for dinner over the weekend can be a bit of a treat but I don’t think many people want to have this expense during the weekdays, when often all a diner wants is a good quality, tasty meal, without making a night of it. It wasn’t until I started doing some research that I realised how few restaurant in Dublin offer all night early birds mid week. I was also surprised buy the huge amount of restaurants that have early bird menus but don’t state the days/times available on their website! Below are my pick of Dublin’s best early bird deals!
1. The Vintage Kitchen
The Vintage Kitchen, albeit a bit off the beaten path, is an absolute favourite of mine. This is outstanding value (not technically an “early bird” as they do it all day every day), and for the quality of the food, I don’t know how they do this all night every day of the week. I really don’t think you can get better value for your money anywhere else in Dublin city. Not only is the food amazing but it’s also BYOB (With FREE corkage!), so you can enjoy your favourite wine with your meal. If you haven’t been here yet, GO. But make sure you book early, because it seems to have a lot of die hard fans like myself. I still dream about a smoked salmon risotto I had here last Christmas- perfection!
The Deal: 2 courses for €25
When: Tuesday-Saturday 5-10pm
2. San Lorenzos
San Lorenzos, described as “modern italian NYC style”, has fast earned a great reputation amongst the people of Dublin. Located conveniently on Georges Street, this is a great place to grab a bite to eat mid week. There always seems to be a great buzz here no matter what day of the week it is, and their early bird has a fantastic selection of delicious italian food and fish dishes. Check out my full review here.
The Deal: €19.50 for 2 courses
When: All night Sunday- Thursday, 4-6.30pm Friday- Saturday
3. Whitefriar Grill
Whitefriar Grill offers a great value early bird with something to suit everyone. Gambas, steak, duck shepherds pie, this is comfort food at its best!
The Deal: €19.50 for 2 courses
When: All night Monday- Thursday, 5-6 Friday-Sunday
5. La Maison
Located just off Grafton Street, this established French restaurant serves up good comfort food in a very inviting dining room. They also have a lovely heated outdoor dining area- perfect for some people watching!
The Deal: 2 courses for €22
When: All night Sunday- Wednesday, Until 7pm Thursday- Saturday
6. Chameleon
Chameleon is one of Dublin oldest restaurants and focuses on Indonesian culinary culture. It is one of Dublin’s gems and you certainly would not think that you’re in the middle of Temple Bar when you’re sitting in their beautifully decorated cosy dining area!
The Deal: €17.95 per menu
When: All night Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday. Until 6.30pm Friday and Saturday