Best Breakfast in Dublin: 8 Places to Try

However many differences there might be between cultures, one thing is common to all: the importance of breakfast. The Irish are no exception when it comes down to the art of starting the day right.

If you’re visiting the Emerald Isle and are looking for the best breakfast in Dublin, this list guarantees local flavor (with sausages, bacon, and eggs as the quintessentially Irish breakfast staple), a creative spin on the classics, and lots of options for all tastes.

irish breakfast
If you’re used to lighter breakfasts, you might be surprised by what they serve in Ireland. Photo credit: Scott M

How do the Irish do breakfast?

Like many other European countries in northern latitudes, Ireland tends to function earlier than southern neighbors like Spain or Italy. As such, meals are moved forward in the day. For instance, many businesses open at 8 a.m., so breakfast will undoubtedly become a huge part of the locals’ daily lives.

One of Ireland’s best-known exports is the full fry. This humongous wake-up call is made up of rashers (bacon in Irish lingo), blood pudding, beans, fried eggs, and sausages.

It usually comes with a fair share of potatoes in many shapes and cooking methods—don’t say we didn’t warn you when you see fries, roasted potatoes, and hashbrowns on the same dish—and tomatoes, and can surely fuel you up for the day ahead.

Nowadays, however, rush commands the routines of many, so it’s no wonder that during the working week, the most consumed breakfast in Ireland is usually a coffee and bun combo on the go! Whether sweet or savory, pair with a good cup of coffee and you will charge your batteries for the next couple of hours.

beans, eggs, sausage, tomato
Irish breakfast for the win. Photo credit: Martijn van Exel

Best breakfast places in Dublin

A local motto goes: “Eat breakfast like a King, lunch like a prince, and dine like a pauper”.

Since we’re pretty sure they’re referring to a full breakfast, here are a few recommendations that will satisfy your hunger for spuds and sausages:

There are few things more beautiful in life than improvisation, and Metro Café: (43 William St. S) is here to serve that purpose! Kickstart your wandering day around Dublin at this walk-in spot in the heart of St. Stephen’s Green. If you’re in dire of a full fry, its Metro Special tops the usual fry with buttermilk pancakes moistened with golden syrup. What’s not to like?

Beanhive

This spot is famous for its artsy lattes, but not many know they also pack the best-value full Irish breakfast. Beanhive than generous portions include two sausies, two rashers, a fried egg, beans, toast, and your hot or cold drink of choice…all for a price that won’t break the bank.

breakfast cappuccino coffee in italy
Beanhive does great coffee, and breakfast too. Photo credit: David Mackey

Balfes

If breakfast at a hotel is up there on your list of Dublin plans, Balfes at the Westbury is the epitome of luxury. In addition to sourdough toast, Benedict (free-range) eggs, and their spinach, tomato, and pepper omelette, its menu adds a nice touch by including non-alcoholic cocktails, a perfect choice to splash out into your day—but not too much!

close up of a wine glass filled with mimosa and an orange slice garnish
Grab a non-alcoholic cocktail at Balfes. Photo credit: JÉSHOOTS

Urban Health

The go-to spot for a filling vegan brekkie. Urban Health‘s dishes are both rich in color and flavor and range from tofu scramble to breakfast burritos. If sweet tooth is your surname, or if you’re looking for a quick cup of bean juice to wash down your treats before your tour, this list is made for you. Be our guest.

girl drinking coffee and smoothie
Coffee, smoothies, cakes…Urban Health has it all. Photo credit: PickPik

3fe

In addition to the best brews in town, 3fe boasts a large menu of breakfast options and treats. A cinnamon roll and a full-bodied nutty and milk chocolatey blend? Make it two. And a matcha latte, please!

Cinnamon roll on a white plate next to a white cup of coffee.
3fe makes delicious cinnamon rolls. Photo credit: Fallon Michael

Keogh’s Café

Conveniently placed next to the Molly Malone statue and Trinity College, Keogh’s Café is THE pit stop. Choose between their specialty scones or muffins and go on your merry way!

breakfast in dublin
Homemade scones? Yes, please! Photo credit: Conall

Wuff

If the avid explorer in you tells you it’s time to refuel, walk no more. Wuff, in the heart of the trendy Smithfield area, offers breakfast and brunch to go. Whether you settle for runny eggs benedict, a crunchy and buttery croissant, or a healthy granola pot, this bistro will ensure you stay in motion.

Person cutting into eggs Benedict with a cup of coffee on the table in the background
Eggs Benedict is a classic. Photo credit: Ryan ‘O’ Niel

Lemon Jelly Café

How about enjoying a full breakfast with a treat to go? Lemon Jelly Café boasts lengthy savory portions and some of the best pancakes, cheesecakes, and smoothies in Dublin’s Fair City!

You’ve got up and savored the best breakfast in Dublin, but still need a plan? Worry no more. Our walking tours will keep you on your toes and satisfy your appetite for local knowledge.

Stack of blueberry pancakes on a white plate beside a small cup of syrup.
Clinton St.’s famous blueberry pancakes. Photo credit: Wally Gobetz

If you’re not looking for a big breakfast in Dublin…

And simply prefer a caffeine fix to get you going, then settle into one of our favorite coffee shops in Dublin.

espresso coffee in italy
Fun fact, coffee in the Irish langauge is spelled “caife.” Photo credit: Ketut Subiyanto