Food & Drink

A Culinary Overview of Ireland

Having opened up to the world over the past several decades, contemporary Ireland prides itself on a dynamic, ever-evolving cuisine that blends traditional ingredients such as lamb, potatoes, oats, and seafood with modern flavours and trends. 

In today’s restaurants and pubs, you’ll find centuries-old staples such as hearty Irish stew, rustic soda bread, and savoury boxty (a traditional potato pancake) served alongside dishes from Italy, East Asia, and India. The country’s many regional differences also manifest themselves through food. Whether it’s a seafood feast in Galway or grass-fed beef in Kilkenny, Ireland’s cuisine is first and foremost an expression of time and place. 

To wash it all down, be sure to indulge in a sampling or two from one of the country’s world-famous breweries and distillers. Known around the globe, Guinness remains central to Irish beer culture, having pioneered the iconic stout. (Whether you’re a beer drinker or not, visiting the Guinness Storehouse at St. James's Gate in Dublin is a quintessential Irish experience.)

Craft breweries such O’Hara’s in Carlow, Franciscan Well in Cork, and Kinnegar Brewing in Donegal are also worth seeking out, offering everything from classic Irish lagers to flavourful, hop-forward ales.

Unique Irish Dining Experiences

An array of iconic dining experiences awaits visitors to Ireland’s shores. Culinary adventurers can enjoy traditional pub fare (including time-honoured colcannon, a luxurious mashup of potatoes, cabbage, bacon, cream, and butter) while on a private bar hop through Dublin. On the Wild Atlantic Way, seafood reigns supreme—think briny mussels, delicious salmon, and succulent crab. 

The freshest oysters on the half shell? They can be found in Galway. To sample Ireland’s world-class ingredients—from produce to cheese—up close, take a guided tour (with tastings!) through one of the hundreds of local farmers' markets that dot the country, including the English Market in Cork and the Temple Bar Food Market in Dublin. 

And be sure to pay a visit to one of Ireland’s fabulous distilleries or breweries.

Wherever your tastes lie, Goway can arrange a culinary odyssey tailor-made for you. To learn more about Ireland’s dynamic dining scene, check out our travel and etiquette guide to this fascinating country.

Ireland’s Whiskey and Spirits

Irish whiskey is deeply ingrained in almost all aspects of life in Ireland. For centuries, it has brought people together and contributed to the national identity. That’s why a behind-the-scenes look at its distilleries, whether over an afternoon or on a whiskey trail tour spanning days, is key to understanding the place.

In Dublin, popular venues include the Jameson Distillery and Teeling Distillery. Farther afield, the Middleton Distillery in Cork offers tours and a very comprehensive visitor centre.

Although illegal for centuries, the Irish moonshine known as poitín (pronounced puh-CHEEN) is gaining popularity as a craft spirit and can be found around the island. Numerous distilleries now offer tours highlighting its making and history. Among them are Killowen Distillery in County Down and Micil Distillery in Galway.

Lastly, Ireland is also forging a reputation as a premium destination for gin lovers. Among the best venues to visit are Listoke Gin School north of Dublin (where you can craft your own sample) or the Shed Distillery (maker of Drumshanbo Gunpowder Irish Gin) in County Leitrim. Slainte!  

Dining Etiquette in Ireland

Food and drink are integral parts of Irish culture. Meals are typically social occasions, enjoyed around a table with lively conversation. It is common for diners to buy a round of drinks as a goodwill gesture when dining out with friends or colleagues. 

No trip to the Emerald Isle would be complete without taking some time to delve into its pub culture. Much of Irish life centres around the pub and locals are always offering a welcoming smile and a friendly handshake to visitors. If someone makes a toast, feel free to join in.

In restaurants, gratuities for servers are optional yet appreciated, with 10 to 15 percent common for good service, while tipping for single drinks at pubs isn't standard. For more on navigating Irish daily life, consult our guide to its culture and traditions.

Accommodating Dietary Needs in Ireland

Ireland is generally very accommodating when it comes to dietary restrictions, thanks to a strong culture of hospitality as well as to strict EU allergen labeling laws requiring menus to list top allergens.

Travellers with allergies or with a preference for gluten- or dairy-free diets are consequently very likely to find suitable options in restaurants and supermarkets, especially in big cities such as Dublin and Cork. The country’s vast array of locally grown produce also makes it easy for vegans and vegetarians to indulge in hearty plant-based meals just about everywhere on the island. 

When in doubt, always ask restaurateurs and servers for guidance; they’ll be more than glad to provide it. Tour guides can also steer you in the right direction when it comes to dietary needs. 
 

Plan Your Irish Culinary Adventure

Having evolved far beyond stereotypes, today’s Ireland offers a vibrant culinary scene marked by high-quality local ingredients, innovative chefs, diverse international influences, and a focus on fresh seafood, dairy, and produce.

Whether you’re looking for simple pleasures such as a pint and stew by a fire or for world-class meals in cities like Dublin, Cork, and Galway, which boast Michelin stars, the country has it all. 

Book your perfect Irish food journey by contacting one of our Destination Specialists today.

FAQs

What are Ireland's main dishes?

Ireland is known for its stews, breads, seafood, and dairy. Popular dishes include Irish stew (typically made with lamb or mutton, as well as potatoes, onions, and carrots), boxty (a traditional potato pancake), and colcannon (a decadent mash of potatoes, cabbage, bacon, cream, and butter).  

What is Irish food culture like?

Irish food culture is rooted in simple, farm-to-table fare, usually shared family-style around the kitchen table. The pub is the public extension of such gatherings, making it an integral part of many communities.

What is a traditional Irish breakfast?

The full Irish breakfast typically features eggs, sausages, bacon, black and white pudding, and tomatoes.

What drink is Ireland known for?

Ireland is known worldwide for Guinness stout and Irish whiskey. Poitín (Irish moonshine) is also gaining favour.

What does a typical Irish person eat?

A typical Irish person eats hearty, traditional meals featuring potatoes, meat, and seafood, alongside modern international foods. Staples include full Irish breakfasts, Irish stew, soda bread, and lots of fresh fish, all enjoyed with plenty of tea and perhaps a pint of Guinness. 

What are traditional Irish snacks?

Some of Ireland’s favourite snacks include hot chicken rolls, Tayto crisps, and Irish chocolate.

What is a favourite Irish dessert?

In addition to simple staples such as scones or trifle, classic Irish desserts include apple cake, apple crumble, and bread pudding, often served with custard or cream, along with cheesecakes and chocolates incorporating local flavours such as Baileys, Guinness, or whiskey.

What are some street foods in Ireland?

The most popular street food in Ireland is fish and chips, first sold in Dublin by Italian immigrants out of handcarts in the late 19th century.

What is the most important meal of the day in Ireland?

While the Irish love breakfast, dinner holds a special place in their hearts, as this is when most families gather.