30 minutes to city centre

Close to the canal in the Dublin suburbs sits this airy, glass-fronted restaurant run by husband-and-wife team John and Sandy Wyer. There's a minimalist, casual elegance to the place, with the cosiest tables those in front of the open kitchen. Go for the full tasting menu to experience as much of John's mature, controlled cooking as possible. Dishes are free of overcomplication and put the emphasis firmly on the superb ingredients, such as glisteningly fresh cod with an original celeriac beurre blanc. The efficient service comes from a friendly team.

Despite its discreet exterior, you'll be able to spot this charmingly run neighbourhood gem thanks to the warm glow of its red neon sign. Inside, the restaurant has an intimate, relaxing feel, with the exposed brick walls and red leather banquettes bathed in soft light, while smooth jazz plays in the background. To feel the buzz of the kitchen, sit downstairs, while the first floor is ideal for larger groups. The seasonally changing menu offers boldly flavoured dishes showcasing some interesting flavour combinations, like wild sea bass with prawn Bourguignon, bisque and capers.

When you browse a menu and see words like ‘pâté’, ‘rillettes’, ‘vin jaune’ and ‘au poivre’, you know you’re in for a thoroughly French treat. The surprise at Forêt is that these Francophone delights are found above the M. O’Brien’s pub – which couldn’t sound more Irish if it tried. Nevertheless, thanks to the team behind Forest Avenue next door, here you have a delicious slice of France, with every authentic dish combining top-quality produce and skilled execution to flavour-packed effect. The tomato tart with piperade is a prime example, simply bursting with umami.

Located in the city's smart suburbs, this buzzy little restaurant is a proper neighbourhood spot. Enjoy snacks and cocktails to start, before moving onto the menu of dishes founded on quality Irish ingredients. Each one is skilfully cooked and provides ample flavour, such as lamb rump with carrot purée and cavolo nero. It's a small place with a quick turnover of tables, but the chatty and efficient service team handle it with aplomb, making their fast-paced jobs look rather easy. The wine list includes some unusual but intriguing choices.

A modern, simply-furnished neighbourhood restaurant with a buzzing atmosphere and a super-friendly team. Ingredient-led, Italian-influenced cooking means an abundance of natural flavours; the concise, daily changing menu features prime meats, homemade pasta and dishes designed for sharing.

There’s so much going for this neighbourhood Italian restaurant in the Portobello district of Dublin. For one, its immense popularity means there’s a brilliant buzz to the place; add to that its canalside setting and appealingly simple interior, and the stage is set for a terrific night out. Start with a glass from their well-chosen list of fine Italian wines, before diving into the roll-call of classic dishes. The ossobuco with risotto Milanese is a good choice, as is the light and well-balanced tiramisu. The friendly team manage the busy room with aplomb.

Fast food