Cheapest Restaurants in Dublin
- Discover the cheapest restaurants in Dublin, from iconic fish and chips to international bites, all near Dublin city centre.
- Save money with lunch deals, early-bird menus, student discounts and affordable takeaway options.
- Perfect guide for backpackers and budget travellers looking to eat well without breaking the bank.
Affordable and delicious dining is easy to find across Dublin city centre, with wallet-friendly restaurants, takeaway spots and pubs serving iconic dishes such as fish and chips from Leo Burdock, budget burgers at Bunsen and Wowburger and a wide range of international flavours, all within easy reach of Gardiner House Hostel and Garden Lane Backpackers.
Travellers can save money without sacrificing quality by taking advantage of lunch deals, early-bird offers through the First Table app, sharing meals and using student discounts, while many venues also provide cheapest restaurants takeaway options for those on the go.
Budget-conscious visitors can also find helpful answers on where to enjoy traditional Irish dishes like stew and coddle, locate affordable eateries near Temple Bar, discover vegan and vegetarian-friendly spots, understand tipping customs, explore late-night dining and use takeaway or delivery services to make their stay even easier.
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 amazing food and Dublin is packed with options for those looking to eat well without overspending. From cosy pubs to lively street food spots, the city offers a mix of traditional Irish dishes and international cuisine at prices that suit every traveller. Whether you’re staying at a hostel, exploring on a backpacking adventure or simply hunting for affordable dining in the city centre, there are plenty of ways to enjoy hearty, flavourful meals on a budget.
Our guide highlights some of the cheapest restaurants in Dublin, from iconic fish and chips to tasty burritos, pizzas and vegetarian-friendly options. With lunch deals, early-bird offers and takeaway choices, these spots make it easy to eat well without stretching your wallet. If you’re planning your trip, knowing the cheapest restaurants in Dublin is essential for experiencing the city’s culinary delights while keeping your travel costs under control.
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):
Wetherspoon is one of the cheapest restaurants in Dublin, offering 3 small plates for just €15. A huge menu with great value makes it perfect for sharing with travel mates.
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:
Boojum and Pablo Picante serve flavour-packed burritos and spicy quesadillas, ideal for on-the-go meals. They’re some of the cheapest restaurants in Dublin for travellers craving bold, zesty flavours.
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.
His Food Charcoal Grill offers smoky grilled meats and cevapi that leave you full and satisfied. A hidden gem among the cheapest restaurants in Dublin, perfect for group dining on a budget.
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 and cheapest restaurant in Dublin: 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.
Must try: 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):
Zaytoon serves delicious Persian street food at some of the cheapest restaurants in Dublin, with the doner box and Lamb Kubideh packed full of flavour. Perfect for a filling, budget-friendly meal after exploring the city.
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):
The Woollen Mills offers classic local dishes, including the hearty Dublin coddle, ideal on a chilly day. A central spot where you can enjoy traditional Irish comfort food without overspending.
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! O’Neills Pub & Kitchen is a cosy pub serving authentic Irish dishes like Guinness stew and seafood chowder. A great choice for travellers seeking hearty meals at some of the cheapest restaurants in Dublin.
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:
O’Reilly’s is known for its Irish beef and Guinness pie, hearty and full of flavour. A budget-friendly pub where you can enjoy classic Irish dishes without breaking the bank.
Pub grub winner: The Irish beef and Guinness pie is top-notch and won’t hurt your wallet.
Kimchi Hophouse (Korean Kitchen in Dublin):
Kimchi Hophouse brings tasty, affordable Korean dishes like bibimbap and bulgogi to the city centre. A brilliant alternative for travellers craving something different from usual fast food.
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. One of the cheapest restaurants in Dublin to eat sushi.
Backpacker tip: Their lunchtime deals are a steal – miso soup, sushi and a drink for around €10–€12.
Pizza Night? Sorted!
Looking for the best cheap pizza in Dublin city centre?
Little Pyg (inside Pygmalion):
Little Pyg is a must-visit for pizza lovers looking for quality on a budget. Located inside the vibrant Pygmalion venue, they serve two delicious pizzas for just €25 – perfect for sharing with a friend or a small group. Don’t miss their Four Cheese pizza, rich and gooey or the Prosciutto & Funghi, bursting with classic flavours. The cosy, casual atmosphere makes it a great spot for lunch, dinner or even a late-night pizza fix without stretching your wallet.
2 delicious pizzas for €25 – don’t miss the Four Cheese or Prosciutto & Funghi.
Sano Pizza (Temple Bar):
If you’re craving authentic Neapolitan-style pizza in the heart of Dublin, Sano Pizza in Temple Bar has you covered. Their pizzas come with a variety of veggie and meat options, all priced under €13, making it a perfect choice for budget-conscious travellers. The dough is light and chewy, topped with fresh ingredients and a punch of Italian flavour. Whether it’s a casual lunch while exploring the city or a quick dinner before a night out, Sano Pizza offers a satisfying meal that won’t break the bank.
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:
For those after big flavours and generous portions, Four Star Pizza and Apache Pizza are top picks. Try the Premium Big Buffalo or The Epic Combo, both loaded with toppings and ideal for sharing with friends after a busy day of sightseeing or a night on the town. These spots are also perfect for late-night cravings, offering tasty, affordable pizza that hits the spot without emptying your pocket. Quick, casual and wallet-friendly, they’re a go-to choice for Dublin’s budget-savvy pizza fans.
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 cheapest 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 cheapest 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 a backpacker, student or just visiting Dublin on a budget, there’s no need to compromise on taste or experience. By exploring some of the cheapest restaurants in Dublin, you can enjoy hearty meals, international flavours and local favourites without overspending. From cosy pubs and street food gems to affordable lunch deals and takeaway spots, these budget-friendly options prove that eating well in Dublin doesn’t have to break the bank. Knowing the cheapest restaurants in Dublin will help you make the most of your trip while keeping your wallet happy.
Use our Free Dublin Guide to discover the best restaurants in Dublin on a budget:
https://www.google.co.uk/maps/d/u/0/edit?mid=1ZJ8lfQtPZST0K_o2jdauNbrgF_7irzE&ll=53.343152833413235%2C-6.261834306398937&z=12Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- 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. - 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. - 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. - 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. - 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. - 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. - 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. - 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.
Whether you’re staying for a few nights or backpacking through Europe, these cheap restaurants 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 cheapest prices or lunch deals during weekdays.