Backpackers in Dublin don’t need to break the bank for a delicious meal. Check out these affordable spots offering tasty dishes without the hefty price tag. Let’s dig into Dublin’s most wallet-friendly restaurants and takeaway spots where you’ll get full on flavour, not on price.
Cheap Eats in Dublin: A Backpacker’s Guide to Tasty and Budget-Friendly Meals
Travelling on a budget doesn’t mean missing out on great food—especially when you’re in Dublin! Whether you’re staying at a hostel, passing through on a backpacking adventure, or just looking to keep your wallet happy, we’ve rounded up the best cheap eats in Dublin city centre. From traditional Irish comfort food to international bites, here’s where to eat well without spending a fortune.
Leo Burdock (Iconic Fish & Chips in Dublin):
What to eat: The legendary fish and chips in Dublin. This old-school favourite has been serving up crispy, golden battered fish since 1913. Perfect for a no-fuss, delicious dinner after a long day exploring.
Wetherspoon (Cheap Pints & Plates):
Top tip: Mix and match 3 small plates for just €15. Great for sharing with your travel mates! Their menu is huge and offers surprisingly good value for central Dublin pubs.
Mexican Favourites: Boojum & Pablo Picante:
Must-eat dishes: Build-your-own burrito bowls packed with flavour, spicy chicken quesadillas at Bell Burrito, and Pablo Picante’s burritos with nachos – a hit with anyone craving bold, zesty bites on the go.
His Food Charcoal Grill (Hidden Balkan Gem):
Balkan must-try: Cevapi and smoky grilled meats that’ll leave you stuffed.
Bonus: Large barbecue tables make it great for group dining.
Bunsen & Wow Burger (Best Burger Deals in Dublin):
What to order: Classic cheeseburgers with golden fries.
Tip: Our guests have discount on the meal deal at WOW Burger showing the key-card.
Govinda’s (Vegetarian & Vegan Buffet):
Healthy choice: A colourful vegetarian and vegan buffet with loads of options. Go for the Special Plate – it’s fresh, filling and full of flavour.
O'Shea's Merchant (Irish Pub Classics):
Cosy atmosphere and hearty food. You can’t go wrong with their traditional Irish stew – warm, comforting and budget-friendly.
Brother Hubbard (Middle Eastern Vibes Brunch)
Top picks: Hearty sandwiches, shakshuka, and their avocado toast. It's a brilliant brunch spot where you can fill up without splurging.
Indulge in: Hearty Middle Eastern-inspired sandwiches and salads.
Brunch special: Avocado toast and shakshuka that won't break the bank.
Coffee and more: Relish in brunch delights without burning a hole in your pocket.
Zaytoon (Persian Street Food):
Best value bites: Doner box with fries and their Lamb Kubideh – full of flavour and perfect after a long day exploring the city.
The Woollen Mills (Local Favourites):
Recommended dish: The Dublin coddle – a classic local comfort food, perfect on a chilly day.
O’Neills Pub & Kitchen (Cosy Irish Pub Dining):
Irish traditional gem!
Go for: Guinness stew and a rich seafood chowder – wholesome and hearty, just like a proper Irish meal should be.
O’Reilly’s Bar & Kitchen:
Pub grub winner: The Irish beef and Guinness pie is top-notch and won’t hurt your wallet.
Kimchi Hophouse (Korean Kitchen in Dublin):
Budget-friendly Korean dishes like bibimbap, kimchi bowls and bulgogi. A brilliant alternative to usual fast food when you're craving something different.
Eatokyo Noodles and Sushi Bar:
Known for: Affordable Japanese bento boxes, ramen bowls and fresh sushi.
Backpacker tip: Their lunchtime deals are a steal – miso soup, sushi and a drink for around €10–€12.
Pizza Night? Sorted! Apache Pizza, Little Pyg, Sano Pizza & Four Star Pizza:
Looking for the best cheap pizza in Dublin city centre?
Little Pyg (inside Pygmalion): 2 delicious pizzas for €25 – don’t miss the Four Cheese or Prosciutto & Funghi.
Sano Pizza (Temple Bar): Authentic Neapolitan-style pizza with loads of veggie and meaty options, all under €13. Perfect for lunch or a casual dinner.
Four Star Pizza & Apache Pizza: Try the Premium Big Buffalo or The Epic Combo – brilliant to share with mates or for a late-night munch after a night out.
Tips for Dining on a Budget:
Lunch Deals: Loads of restaurants offer cheaper prices at lunch – keep an eye out for mid-day deals. Check our partners to get discounts.
Early-Bird Menus: Great for dinner savings. Use the First Table app to snag discounted early reservations. Download the app First Table to discover the restaurants.
Split the bill: Sharing meals with friends means you can try more dishes without overspending.
Takeaway goodies: Plenty of takeaways near our hostels (Fortes Takeaway, Enzo’s Take Away, Mario’s Takeaway & Apache Pizza) offer lower prices for collection.
Student discounts: Flash your student ID at spots like McDonald's for extra savings.
Dublin might not have a reputation as a cheap city, but if you know where to eat, you’ll find loads of affordable places to eat in Dublin city centre that cater to budget travellers. From classic fish and chips to falafel wraps and budget-friendly brunches, the city is full of flavours without the hefty price tag.
Whether you're staying for a few nights or backpacking through Europe, these cheap food spots in Dublin for backpackers will help you eat well and save more for the next adventure.
Most of these restaurants are close to Dublin’s city centre, especially Capel Street, Talbot Street and Parnell Street – which is great if you’re staying at Gardiner House Hostel or Garden Lane Backpackers. And if you’re really watching your budget, many offer takeaway with cheaper prices or lunch deals during weekdays.
Use our Free Dublin Guide to discover the best restaurants in Dublin on a budget:
Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What are the best restaurants in Dublin? Dublin has a brilliant mix of dining spots, from Michelin-starred restaurants to affordable gems. Popular picks include Chapter One for fine dining, The Woollen Mills for modern Irish cuisine, and Bunsen for some of the city’s best burgers. Whether you're after a romantic meal or a casual bite, there's something for every taste.
2. Where can I try traditional Irish food in Dublin? For proper Irish comfort food, head to The Brazen Head (Ireland’s oldest pub), The Celt for pub classics and live music, or Gallagher’s Boxty House in Temple Bar. You’ll find hearty stews, boxty pancakes, soda bread and more traditional dishes made with love.
3. Are there cheap or budget-friendly places to eat in Dublin? Yes, you’ll find plenty of affordable places to eat in Dublin! Umi Falafel, Boojum, and Sano Pizza are great options for students, backpackers and anyone on a budget. Most spots offer meals under €10 without compromising on flavour.
4. What are the best restaurants near Temple Bar? Temple Bar is full of food spots, but if you're looking to avoid tourist traps, check out Elephant & Castle (famous for chicken wings), The Boxty House or Rosa Madre for Italian seafood. They’re just a few steps away from the action but offer better quality.
5. Do Dublin restaurants cater for vegetarians or vegans? Absolutely. Dublin has become super vegan- and vegetarian-friendly in recent years. Cornucopia, Sova Vegan Butcher and Vegan Sandwich Co. are go-to spots, and most restaurants now offer plant-based options on their menus.
6. Do I need to book restaurants in advance in Dublin? For popular restaurants or weekend dinners, it’s a good idea to book ahead. Lunchtime and casual eateries usually accept walk-ins, but if you’ve got a special place in mind or a group booking, definitely make a reservation.
7. Is tipping expected at restaurants in Dublin? Tipping isn’t required but it’s appreciated. Leaving 10% to 15% is common if the service is good. Some places include a service charge for larger groups, so it’s always worth checking your bill before adding a tip.
8. Are there restaurants open late in Dublin? Depends. Though late-night options are mostly limited to the city centre. Try DiFontaine’s for pizza slices, Enzo's for fast food takeaway, Zaytoon for Persian wraps or WOWBURGER for a late burger fix. These spots are perfect after a night out or when everything else is closed.
9. What food is Dublin famous for? Dublin is known for dishes like Irish stew, coddle (a Dublin original), boxty and seafood chowder. You can’t go wrong with a full Irish breakfast to start your day or a hearty meal with a pint of Guinness to end it.
10. Do restaurants in Dublin offer takeaway or delivery? Yes, nearly all Dublin restaurants offer takeaway and many also do delivery through apps like Deliveroo, Just Eat or Uber Eats. It's perfect if you fancy a night in or want to grab food on the go while exploring the city.
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