The sun splitting the skies over the past few days has us really in the mood for some al fresco dining.
Being the interiors enthusiasts we are, restaurant design is as important an experience for us as the food itself.
Any space can impact our mood, and when the sun is out, our outdoor spaces and their design becomes paramount.
All this got us thinking about the spaces around us, and the spots we love to visit for their design as well as their culinary offerings.
Here are the 8 Dublin restaurants we’re dying to visit for some al fresco dining:
1. Drury Buildings
Fine Spanish tapas in the gorgeous courtyard to the rear of Drury Buildings is nothing short of the perfect Summer evening for us.
Plant clusters, terracotta tiles and exposed brick make for the perfect setting, especially as the night begins to darken and the flickering candlelight creates a serene yet ambient mood.
2. Balfes
Sitting outside balfes on a sunny day, watching the emerging style from The Westbury hotel, one could be forgiven for thinking they were people watching in Paris.
Offset by rich charcoal tones, marble tabletops and detailed tiling, this chic spot is one of our favorites for a summer brunch or pre-dinner drinks in the sun.
We particularly love their Loulerie Sparkler, aptly named after their super elegant neighbours, Loulerie Jewelers. Muddled raspberries, prosecco and creme de mur = a mid summers night dream (in a champagne glass).
3. Mulberry Garden
Greeted by the instant appeal of a fragrant log fire and in the surroundings of large cascading plants, you’d be hard pushed to find a nicer spot to enjoy a drink late into the summer evening.
With a seasonal menu each week, and food that is consistently stunning Mulberry Garden is a great spot for a summer’s eve.
Although, dining is generally inside, few can resist the lure of the beautiful courtyard, with comfortable seating, cosy blankets and a warm fire when the night chill sets in. The interiors are also well worth the visit!
4. Fallon & Byrne, The Peoples Park, Dun Laoghaire
This pretty little spot is an all round winner for us when the sun shines. Whether it’s for a simple coffee to enjoy in the People’s Park, or lunch in the sun, the detail, the food and the natural scenery are on point for us.
Again, the interiors are also pretty to die for!
5. House, Leeson St.
It’s understandable why this spot is usually a hive of activity. With the most gorgeous greenery, an eclectic mix of furnishings and buckets of charm, we find ourselves fixated with details in the decor each time we go there.
6. The Courtyard, Marco Pierre White
Summer cocktails in the sun? The Courtyard in Donnybrook is a sun trap with a Mediterranean edge, where olive trees, large lanterns and rustic tiling takes our minds a few thousand miles south of its actual location in Donnybrook.
7. Vintage Cocktail Club
The VCC rooftop garden is one spot we’ll definitely be this summer! With the quirky, eclectic style that even varies for floor to floor this place is a feast for our eyes!
8. Rooftop bar @ Sophie’s, The Dean
The ever cool Dean Hotel in Dublin ends on a literal high with the rooftop bar at Sophie’s. With an outdoor oven, planting and panoramic views of the city what’s not to love?
