Malahide’s dining scene has this lovely neighbourhood vibe, but the food quality really stands out. You’ll find everything from family-run spots serving up old favourites to modern places with chefs getting creative in the kitchen.
Here are four restaurants that, in my opinion, show off the village’s food culture and love of good ingredients.
Bon Appetit
Bon Appetit is run by a local family, and you can feel that warmth when you walk in. They’ve built a reputation for creative cooking and a laid-back atmosphere.
They focus on contemporary comfort food, and their brunches are a big hit with both locals and visitors.
The head chef clearly takes pride in crafting modern dishes with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Every plate looks and tastes like someone actually cared about what went into it.
They do a tapas-style menu, so you get to try a bunch of different flavours in one go.
The dining room glows with candlelight, making it a cosy spot for brunch or special occasions. Their wine and cocktail list pairs well with the food, and the staff manage to stay attentive without ever feeling stuffy.
Bon Appetit works for all sorts of occasions—casual lunches, romantic dinners, or just a treat-yourself meal. It’s right in Malahide village, so it’s easy to get to whether you’re from Dublin or just passing through.
Sale e Pepe
Sale e Pepe has been part of Malahide for 27 years. That’s some serious staying power. They specialise in seafood and steaks, really making the most of their coastal location.
The atmosphere is cosy and relaxed, and the staff go out of their way to make you feel at home. Daily specials highlight what’s in season, and regulars keep coming back for the creative touches.
People rave about the fish tacos—honestly, they’re worth a try.
It’s right in the centre of Malahide, and you get great value for the quality of food on offer. Their seafood dishes reflect the area’s fishing roots, and the steaks come from top suppliers.
Prices are fair, which is always a pleasant surprise.
You can get here from Dublin city centre in under half an hour on the DART. That makes it an easy choice for anyone craving good food by the sea.
Al Fresco
Al Fresco gets to use Malahide’s pedestrianised New Street, so their outdoor seating is actually great. It’s a lively, people-watching spot that feels a bit like you’re on holiday.
The kitchen focuses on seasonal ingredients, and you can taste the care in each dish. Sitting outside, you get to watch the village go by, which is honestly half the fun.
They update the menu with the seasons, so there’s always something new. The staff know how to time things right, especially when it comes to serving hot food outdoors.
That street café vibe really makes the place feel special.
If you want to eat well and soak up the village atmosphere, Al Fresco is a solid pick. Their focus on outdoor dining gives them a unique edge in Malahide.
McGoverns Restaurant
McGoverns Restaurant sits right on The Diamond, and you can’t really miss it. They specialise in traditional fish and chips, and they do it right.
They bring in fresh fish every day, then fry it in a light, crispy batter that lets the flavour shine through.
The chips are chunky and made fresh, which makes all the difference. Every dish gets careful attention, from the kitchen to the table.
It’s a relaxed, family-friendly spot, so everyone feels welcome.
On sunny days, you can sit outside and watch the village in action. The staff are always friendly and happy to help.
They’ve got a nice wine selection to go with the seafood, and customers leave plenty of good reviews. McGoverns proves that when you do the classics well, people notice.
Seafood Dining Highlights
Malahide’s spot on the coast means fresh seafood is a given. Local restaurants mix traditional Irish seafood with Mediterranean twists, and the waterfront views just add to the experience.
You’ll find everything from classic fish and chips to impressive seafood platters.
Seabank Bistro
Seabank Bistro is one of Malahide’s most respected seafood spots, and people can’t stop recommending it. They specialise in fresh, local catches straight from Irish waters.
The menu changes daily, depending on what the fishermen bring in that morning. Some favourites are the pan-seared sea bass with herb butter and the grilled Dublin Bay prawns.
They work directly with local fishermen, so you’re always getting the best quality.
Some standout dishes:
Fresh Carlingford Lough oysters
Traditional fish and chips with hand-cut chips
Creamy seafood chowder with local veggies
Grilled whole fish
You get marina views from the dining room, which adds to the charm. The staff know their stuff and can suggest the right wine for your meal.
Seabank Bistro stays open all year, shifting the menu with the seasons. Hearty seafood pies show up in winter, and lighter grilled dishes take over in summer.
Waterfront Restaurants
The marina area in Malahide is packed with restaurants that combine great views and serious seafood menus. They’re close to the fishing boats and harbour, so you know the seafood’s fresh.
The Oar House sits right by the harbour, and the terrace is perfect for watching boats come in. Their seafood platter is a feast—lobster, crab claws, prawns, smoked salmon—the works.
They keep the recipes simple to let the seafood shine.
Aqua Restaurant gives you a fancier waterfront vibe. Huge windows look out over the marina, and the menu leans into contemporary seafood.
The seafood pasta with mussels, clams, and prawns in white wine sauce is a favourite. They also do a mean grilled halibut with lemon and herbs.
Deep is more casual but still right on the water. Their fish tacos and seafood salads are popular at lunch, while dinner brings out bigger plates like whole roasted fish.
Most of these places open up their outdoor seating when the weather’s good. It’s hard to beat a seafood lunch or sunset dinner by the water.
Seafood Specialties
Malahide’s restaurants love to mix Irish tradition with international styles, especially Mediterranean. You’ll see a lot of Italian and Spanish touches with local fish.
King Sitric in nearby Howth is a favourite for Malahide locals too. Their Captain’s Platter is a seafood lover’s dream—grilled lobster, steamed mussels, smoked salmon.
Fish and chips is still a staple, usually with fresh cod or haddock, crispy batter, and mushy peas.
Octopussy’s Seafood Tapas brings a Spanish flair. You can try small plates like garlic prawns, stuffed mussels, and grilled calamari.
Some local favourites:
Dublin Bay prawns with garlic butter
Smoked salmon from local smokehouses
Fresh crab salads with brown bread
Creamy seafood chowder with local veggies
A lot of places decide on specials based on what the boats bring in that day. That’s about as fresh as it gets.
Mediterranean influences show up in dishes like seafood risotto, grilled fish with olive tapenade, and pasta made the Italian way but with Irish seafood.
Irish Culinary Experiences
Malahide’s restaurants celebrate Irish heritage with a modern twist. You’ll find classic dishes like seafood boxty and Irish stew, but chefs aren’t afraid to experiment.
The settings range from contemporary to classic Irish pubs.
Modern Irish Cuisine
The Greedy Goose leads the way with modern Irish cooking. They serve dishes like duck breast with black pudding hash, putting a new spin on old favourites.
Bon Appetit uses Michelin-recommended techniques to elevate local produce. Their seasonal menus feature things like smoked Irish cod with celeriac.
Chefs here really care about local sourcing. They use Irish beef, fresh Dublin Bay prawns, and vegetables from nearby farms.
You’ll see international techniques blended with Irish staples—think lamb with Mediterranean herbs, or colcannon turned into a fancy side.
These spots prove Irish food isn’t just pub grub. They create memorable meals while honouring Ireland’s roots.
Cosy Irish Eateries
Déjà Vu feels like a French bistro but with Irish friendliness. Exposed brick, candles, and a relaxed vibe make it great for long meals.
Traditional Irish pubs around Malahide serve up hearty comfort food. Gibney’s Pub does classic fish and chips, and you can get local oysters too.
Family-run places keep things welcoming, with big portions and friendly service. It’s the kind of hospitality that makes you want to come back.
Giovannis is technically Italian, but the cosy atmosphere and home-style service fit right in with the Irish vibe.
These places make it easy to relax, chat, and enjoy food with friends or family. Sharing platters or taking your time over Sunday lunch just feels right here.
Traditional Irish Dishes
Malahide’s coastal location means seafood is always fresh—Dublin Bay prawns, mussels, and local fish are menu staples.
You’ll spot Irish stew on plenty of menus, made with slow-cooked lamb, potatoes, and root vegetables. Each chef adds their own twist.
Seafood chowder is a local favourite, and Seabank Bistro does a version that’s especially rich and creamy.
Irish ingredients like black pudding, white pudding, and soda bread show up in breakfasts and hearty dinners alike.
Boxty, the Irish potato pancake, features on several menus. Sometimes it comes with seafood, sometimes as part of a big breakfast.
Restaurants stick to traditional prep—slow-cooking stews, hand-cutting chips, and baking fresh soda bread every day.
Italian and European Influences
Malahide’s food scene borrows a lot from continental Europe. You’ll find authentic Italian trattorias, wood-fired pizza joints, and bistros with seasonal European menus.
Authentic Italian Restaurants
Il Sorriso is one of the best Italian spots in Malahide. They serve classic dishes made with ingredients straight from Italy. Their pasta menu covers all the favourites—carbonara, cacio e pepe, and more.
That’s Amore Malahide blends Italian techniques with local Irish produce. You’ll find fresh seafood prepared Italian-style and all the classic meat dishes. The atmosphere is warm and inviting.
Fratelli Restaurant sticks to regional Italian recipes, cooking the way their families did back home. Their wine list pairs perfectly with each course.
The Little Venice Restaurant offers a cosy space and authentic Italian cooking. The chef sources ingredients from Italy whenever possible, making the experience feel genuinely Italian.
Pizza Hotspots
Pomodorino Wood Fired Pizza & Pasta brings in wood-fired ovens from Italy, so you get that proper thin, crispy crust. They use San Marzano tomatoes and fresh mozzarella, and their pasta is homemade too.
Cucinos Italian Restaurant makes pizza the Neapolitan way. The dough ferments for a full day, then they hand-stretch and top it with quality ingredients. Their margherita really shows off the basics done right.
Ravellos mixes traditional pizza with more creative options. It’s a casual place, and the outdoor seating is a bonus when the sun’s out.
European Bistros
Wine House Restaurant brings continental European dining right into Malahide. They change up their menu with the seasons, drawing inspiration from French and European classics. You’ll also find a wine list packed with bottles from all over Europe.
Sale e Pepe serves modern European dishes with a definite Italian twist. They focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients, cooked using classic European techniques. The vibe strikes a nice balance between laid-back comfort and a touch of elegance.
The Italian Kitchen at Avoca, near Malahide Castle, offers European-style dishes in a pretty historic spot. Their deli stocks imported European specialties and ready-made meals. You can pick between a casual bite or something a bit more formal.
Michelin-Recognised and Awarded Dining
Malahide has made a name for itself in the food world. Bon Appetit landed a Michelin Guide recommendation, and several local spots have picked up awards that highlight just how high the bar is here.
Michelin-Recommended Venues
Bon Appetit stands out as Malahide’s flagship Michelin Guide spot. You’ll find it at 9 James Terrace, overlooking the marina in a lovely old Georgian townhouse. Michelin inspectors have praised it for modern European cuisine.
Chef Oliver Dunne puts together seasonal menus that really show off Irish ingredients and refined technique. Their five-course tasting menu highlights the precision that got them Michelin recognition.
The dining room has that classic Georgian charm mixed with modern touches. Big windows look out over Malahide Marina, setting a scene that matches the food’s polish.
People usually book weeks ahead—especially on weekends. The kitchen keeps up those Michelin standards with creative, seasonal menus that change every few months.
Recognition & Local Awards
In 2024, The Irish Times named Malahide one of Ireland’s top 10 culinary villages. That says a lot about how many great restaurants you can walk to in the village.
TripAdvisor regularly lists Bon Appetit, The Greedy Goose, and Déjà Vu among its top-rated spots in Malahide. Thousands of verified reviews keep these restaurants at the top.
Food critics in Dublin often write about Malahide’s dining scene. Since 2020, the village has become a real destination for food lovers from all over Ireland.
Several places have even won regional awards for seafood, thanks to Malahide’s coastal setting and fresh Dublin Bay ingredients.
Signature Dishes
Bon Appetit’s smoked cod with celeriac really shows off their Michelin-level skill. They blend Irish ingredients with modern smoking techniques and careful plating.
The dark chocolate crémeux has turned into their signature dessert. It’s rich and silky, and it’s one of those dishes that makes you understand why Michelin took notice.
Seafood is a big deal in Malahide. Chefs work with local Dublin Bay prawns and day-boat fish, using everything from classic French to modern Irish techniques.
When autumn rolls around, you’ll spot game dishes on the menu. Restaurants source venison and wild fowl from Irish suppliers, giving these dishes a modern spin but keeping the traditional flavours.
Atmosphere and Ambiance
Malahide’s restaurants each have their own vibe. Some offer Mediterranean-style terraces, while others are tucked inside elegant Georgian buildings with views of Dublin Bay.
Since New Street became pedestrian-only, Malahide’s outdoor dining scene has exploded. Restaurants now spill out onto the street with big terraces that soak up the coastal atmosphere.
Orchid Restaurant makes the most of their outdoor space. Guests can enjoy Cantonese and Szechuan dishes while watching the village go by.
SALE e PEPE brings a bit of the Mediterranean to their outdoor area. After 27 years, they’ve nailed a cosy spot where you can linger over seafood or steak in the salty air.
McGoverns Restaurant sits on The Diamond and has some of the best outdoor tables around. Their terrace is a great place for classic fish and chips and people-watching.
Many places have added heaters and canopies, so you can eat outside even when the Irish weather isn’t exactly cooperating.
Seaside Views
Malahide’s location on the coast means lots of restaurants have stunning views across Dublin Bay. These waterfront spots make meals feel extra special, with the sea as your backdrop.
Gourmet Food Parlour takes full advantage of their spot by the water. You can sit back, enjoy ocean views, and relax over your meal.
Several places near the marina offer harbour views. Diners can watch sailboats and fishing boats drift by as they eat.
Salt air and sea breezes drift through many dining rooms, giving everything a fresh, coastal feel. It might even make the seafood taste that bit better.
Restaurants with sea views often use big windows and glass walls. That way, natural light pours in and the dining spaces feel bright and open all day.
Georgian Townhouse Restaurants
Malahide’s Georgian buildings give some restaurants a real sense of style and history. These old houses bring a certain character to the dining scene.
Old Street Restaurant is a prime example. The owners restored two of the oldest buildings in the village and turned them into a Michelin-recommended spot.
These heritage buildings have high ceilings, period details, and original features. The result? Dining rooms that feel both intimate and full of old-world charm.
Déjà Vu operates in a cosy village building, keeping things warm and inviting even with an open kitchen. Diners can watch the chefs bake fresh bread while soaking up the homey vibe.
Georgian proportions naturally create smaller, more intimate spaces. Dimmer lighting and candlelit tables make these rooms feel extra romantic.
Thick stone walls in older buildings keep things quiet, so you can actually hear your dinner companion—a rare treat these days.
Global Flavours in Malahide
Malahide’s food scene goes way beyond Irish classics. Spanish tapas bars and Mediterranean restaurants bring a world of flavours to this coastal village, all while keeping that easygoing Malahide vibe.
Spanish Cuisine
You can find real Spanish dining in Malahide—no touristy imitations here. El Toro serves traditional tapas and Spanish wines, creating an atmosphere that feels straight out of Barcelona.
Their patatas bravas come with a proper kick of spiced tomato and garlic aioli. The jamón ibérico gets sliced to order and paired with aged manchego for maximum flavour.
Scotch Bonnet Kitchen & Bar adds Spanish flair to its global menu. Dishes like chorizo-stuffed peppers and seafood paella mix local ingredients with classic Spanish touches.
Both places focus on sharing plates, so you get that social, lively Spanish dining experience. The wine lists lean heavily on Rioja and Ribera del Duero—perfect pairings for bold flavours.
Mediterranean Restaurants
Mediterranean food has found a real home in Malahide. Restaurants here lean into fresh ingredients and healthy cooking, inspired by southern Europe’s coastlines.
Seabank Bistro uses Mediterranean techniques for their seafood. Grilled fish comes with olive oil, lemon, and herbs—simple, classic, and so good.
Local spots build Mediterranean salads from Irish produce, blending both traditions. You’ll notice lots of basil and oregano, often grown right nearby.
The Mediterranean way—lots of small plates and long, relaxed meals—just fits Malahide’s coastal pace. Chefs focus on great olive oil, seasonal veggies, and grilling, letting natural flavours shine.
Family-Friendly and Casual Dining
Malahide welcomes families, offering plenty of places where you can enjoy good food without any fuss. Many restaurants have kids’ menus, high chairs, and big tables for groups.
Welcoming Venues
Old Street Restaurant stands out as a neighbourhood favourite for families. They provide high chairs and a relaxed space where parents can unwind and kids can eat happily.
Its location in the heart of the village makes it easy for families exploring Malahide. Staff know how to make families feel comfortable and always seem happy to help.
McGoverns Restaurant is another solid choice for family dining. Right on The Diamond, it has outdoor seating ideal for sunny days. The laid-back atmosphere means kids can be themselves while parents enjoy a meal.
Sitting in central Malahide, it’s handy for families visiting the marina or castle. Bigger tables make it easy for large groups, and the informal vibe takes the pressure off.
Kid-Friendly Menus
Old Street Restaurant does a great job for younger diners. They serve half-portions of adult dishes, so kids can try new flavours without being overwhelmed.
They also run kids-eat-free Sundays, which makes eating out as a family a bit more affordable.
Siam Thai Restaurant offers family-friendly Thai food, with milder curries and rice dishes that suit kids. The kitchen can dial down the spice if needed.
Deja Vu’s breakfast and brunch menus work well for families, offering both familiar favourites and more adventurous options for adults.
Group Dining Options
Plenty of Malahide restaurants can handle big family gatherings. Siam Thai Restaurant has looked after groups—one review even mentioned a party of 8 adults and 9 kids going smoothly.
McGoverns Restaurant gives you the space and flexibility for celebrations like birthdays or family reunions. Their central spot and easygoing style make things simple.
Kajjal goes the extra mile for families, even setting up outdoor seating when needed. Their willingness to adapt really stands out.
Most places let you book ahead, which is a lifesaver when you’re trying to organise a big group. Restaurants here genuinely understand what families need.
Specialty Dishes and Local Favourites
Malahide’s restaurants take pride in signature dishes that reflect their seaside setting and a bit of local flair. From creative pasta plates to the freshest seafood, these specialities help explain why foodies keep coming back.
Spicy Tagliatelle
A few Malahide spots have turned this Italian classic into a real local hit. Old Street Restaurant’s spicy tagliatelle with Dublin Bay prawns uses shellfish caught just off the coast.
They make the pasta in-house and toss it with a gentle chilli oil that boosts the prawn’s sweetness instead of overpowering it. Some chefs here add Irish cream to soften the heat, creating a unique Irish-Italian combo.
That’s Amore does their own version with chorizo and sun-dried tomatoes. The Spanish sausage brings a smoky note while keeping the Mediterranean vibe.
Most places let you tweak the dish—add more spice, swap in Wicklow lamb, or toss in Carlingford mussels. This flexibility has made spicy tagliatelle a menu staple all over town.
Local Seafood Creations
Malahide sits right on the coast, so restaurants get their pick of fresh seafood every day. SALE e PEPE really leans into this, serving up fish tacos with local cod, crispy beer batter, and their own tangy slaw.
At The Orchid Restaurant, chefs blend Cantonese techniques with Dublin Bay’s finest. Their steamed whole sea bass with ginger and spring onion brings out the fish’s sweetness and adds a classic Chinese twist.
McGoverns Restaurant keeps things simple with fish and chips. They use fresh haddock or cod, cut the chips by hand, and fry everything in a light batter that lets the fish shine.
Jaipur takes things in a different direction. Their monkfish curry with lime, ginger, and fried okra caught the eye of the Michelin Guide for its creative spin on local seafood, all while staying true to Indian flavors.
House Specialties
Every spot in Malahide seems to have its own signature dish. Kajjal packs the house on Sundays with an early bird menu full of Asian fusion dishes that merge traditional methods with Irish produce.
Déjà Vu bakes their own bread every day—you can actually watch the process through the open kitchen window. Their sourdough lands on nearly every table and, honestly, it’s become a bit of a trademark.
Scotch Bonnet stands out for their Louisiana-style chicken wings and Baby Back Ribs. They use local meat, but the spice blends come straight from the US.
Bon Appetit takes a tapas approach, serving up small plates that highlight seasonal Irish produce with a modern twist. The candlelit vibe adds something special to the whole experience.
Dining Etiquette and Booking Tips
If you want to get the best out of Malahide’s dining scene, plan ahead and get to know the local customs. Booking early helps you snag a table, and giving a heads-up about dietary needs makes life easier for everyone.
Reservation Advice
Places like Bon Appetit and The Greedy Goose fill up fast, especially on weekends. You’ll want to call at least a week in advance.
Honestly, calling works better than just booking online—some spots keep tables aside for folks who ring up.
Peak times to book:
Friday and Saturday evenings (6:30-8:30 PM)
Sunday lunch (12:00-2:30 PM)
Bank holiday weekends
You might get lucky with a walk-in if you go early (5:30-6:00 PM) or pretty late (after 9:00 PM). If you’re bringing a big group—say, six or more—try to book at least two weeks out, especially in the summer when Dubliners flock to the coast.
Most restaurants have online booking, either on their sites or through platforms you’ll find with a quick search. Still, calling lets you ask for things like a marina view or a quieter spot inside.
Dietary Accommodations
Malahide restaurants usually handle dietary requirements well, as long as you give them a bit of notice. If you’re vegan, gluten-free, or have allergies, just let them know 24-48 hours ahead.
What they typically do:
Prep gluten-free meals in separate areas
Offer plant-based versions of Irish classics
Adjust sauces and garnishes for allergies
Bon Appetit sometimes whips up new dishes from scratch to fit your needs. Spots like Scotch Bonnet Kitchen already have a bunch of vegan and veggie options on the menu.
Mention your dietary needs when you book, and maybe remind them when you show up. Staff usually talk you through how they prepare things and where they source ingredients, just to put your mind at ease.
Dining with a View
With the waterfront right there, plenty of restaurants offer great views. If you want that perfect marina seat at Seabank Bistro, you’ll need to book smart.
Best times for a view:
Sunset (changes with the season)
Weekend brunch overlooking the estuary
Clear days for terrace dining
Restaurants save window tables for diners eating full meals, not just drinks. If you care about where you sit, mention it when you book, though there’s never a guarantee until you walk in.
Sometimes, if you arrive 15 minutes early, staff can shift things around and get you a better table if one opens up. There’s often a waiting list for the best spots, especially if someone cancels last minute.
Proximity to Dublin and Getting There
Malahide sits just 16 kilometers north of Dublin, which makes it super handy for city folks craving a coastal meal. You can get there in about 30 minutes by car or train, so it’s perfect for a day trip or a relaxed evening out.
Access from Dublin City
By Car: Just hop on the M1 north, then cut over to the R106 along the coast. Traffic isn’t usually bad if you avoid rush hour, and the drive takes around 25-30 minutes.
Parking isn’t much of a hassle. You’ll find car parks near the marina and on New Street, plus most of them go free after 6 PM—ideal for dinner.
By Train: The DART runs every 10-15 minutes from central Dublin stations like Connolly, Tara Street, and Pearse.
You’ll be in Malahide in about 22 minutes. Once you step off the train, most restaurants are just a five-minute walk away.
Public Transport Tips
Grab a return DART ticket—it’s cheaper. If you can, avoid peak hours (7-9 AM and 5-7 PM) since trains get packed.
On weekends, trains run every 15-20 minutes, so check the Irish Rail app for real-time updates, especially if the weather’s acting up.
Bus Options: Dublin Bus 42 goes from the city to Malahide, but it takes about 45 minutes. On the plus side, the bus drops you closer to some restaurants on the main street.
A Leap Card makes it easier to switch between bus, train, and DART.
Frequently Asked Questions
People often ask about dinner reservations, seafront dining, and the best value meals in Malahide. Some visitors even compare Malahide’s food scene to other coastal towns nearby.
What are the top-rated restaurants in Malahide for dinner?
Bon Appetit gets top marks for dinner in Malahide. It’s in a Georgian townhouse overlooking the marina and serves modern European food using seasonal Irish ingredients.
The Greedy Goose is another strong pick, with a menu full of modern Irish and European dishes. People love the duck breast with black pudding hash and the wine list is nothing to sneeze at.
Déjà Vu brings classic French bistro vibes, serving beef bourguignon and proper onion soup. The French-Irish owners make sauces that could easily hold their own in Paris.
Which Malahide seafront restaurants are recommended for seafood?
Gibney’s Seafood Bar, tucked inside the iconic Gibney’s Pub, dishes up local oysters and traditional fish and chips. They sometimes have live music, too.
Seabank Bistro sits right on the estuary and focuses on seafood. Their chowder and lemon sole get a lot of love from both locals and visitors.
Since Dublin Bay is so close, these places get fresh deliveries every day. Both offer outdoor tables with water views.
Can you suggest any early bird specials offered by Malahide restaurants?
Plenty of places in Malahide serve early bird menus and pre-theatre deals. The Greedy Goose usually has early bird options before 7pm on weekdays.
Bon Appetit sometimes does tasting menu deals during quieter times. It’s best to call and check what’s on, as these offers change with the seasons.
You’ll also find Italian spots like Giovanni’s doing early evening specials on pasta and pizza, usually until 6:30pm.
Where can I find the best lunch spots in Malahide?
Scotch Bonnet Kitchen & Bar knocks out street food-inspired lunches. Locals and tourists both rave about the Korean BBQ chicken burger and buttermilk fried chicken bao.
Silks Cafe focuses on brunch and smoothie bowls, offering lighter lunch options in a chill spot near the center.
Cafe Provence brings French-inspired salads and lunch plates, and its location is handy for anyone wandering the village.
How do the top Malahide restaurants compare to those in nearby Howth or Portmarnock?
Malahide’s restaurants feel more intimate compared to the busier, tourist-heavy spots in Howth. People come here for quality—places like Bon Appetit offer Michelin-level experiences.
Howth tends to go big with clifftop restaurants and classic seafood houses for larger crowds. Malahide keeps it boutique and charming, often in historic buildings.
Portmarnock doesn’t have as many dining options, so Malahide easily comes out on top for variety. In fact, The Irish Times put Malahide in Ireland’s top 10 culinary villages for 2024.
Are there any notable new restaurants in Malahide that have recently opened?
Scotch Bonnet Kitchen & Bar is one of the newer spots in Malahide’s dining scene. They bring some pretty creative street food ideas to the village—honestly, it’s a refreshing change.
A few new cafes have popped up lately, too. Coastal Coffee quickly became a favorite for people after specialty coffee and fresh baked treats.
The restaurant scene in Malahide keeps shifting. You’ll notice more menus now have vegetarian and vegan options, which is great if you’re after something different.