Outdoor Drinking And Dining In Dublin

With a lively beer garden in the heart of Dublin city centre, Nancy Hands boast some of the best Guinness in the area. Complete with mismatched titles and pretty plants, it's a welcome retreat from the bustle of the streets. They have an extensive menu of beer, wine and cocktails as well as an array of delicious dishes from Ireland and beyond. Most known for their signature hot toasties, cheesy delights include the classic Rueben with pastrami and sauerkraut layered between crispy sourdough.

The Bernard Shaw is a fun-packed alfresco gem where a classic pub meets an eclectic event space, complete with four floors of excitement. Enjoy karaoke, ping pong, and trivia, then munch away from six tasty food spots.

If you're on the hunt for outdoor watering holes, Wigwam fronts a rooftop terrace equipped with a sparkly disco ball and ribbons of bunting, as well as streetside tables. Ideal for birthday celebrations and friend catch-ups, the venue has a top-notch menu boasting a brunch of dreams, with the likes of ranchero eggs and a Los Chicano sandwich, filled with braised chicken thigh marinated in Four 20 Hemp Ale. The drinks will give you a rum for your money too, as this haunt loves a tropical cocktail or two, such as the fruity Mango Macaw. 

With an outdoor beer garden in Dublin, it's no wonder why The Market Bar is so popular during the warmer months. Housed in a 19th-century Victorian warehouse, this buzzy spot has an industrial feel thanks to its exposed brick walls and large beams lunging across the ceiling. Tip back delicious pints of beer, alongside fabulous tapas - think salt and pepper calamari served with chilli mayo and crispy fish tacos or Galway Bay steamed mussels. Come for lunch and feast on one dish and a side for just €12.95.

You'll find The Lighthouse in Dun Laoghaire, close to the harbour - which is reflected in the venue's nautical theme. This two-storey space features two bars, a kitchen, an open mic stage and a spacious beer garden, home to regular gigs, DJ sets and even art shows.

Relax with a refreshing pint or cocktail in their outdoor space, paired with an all-day menu of tasty treats. They offer brunch dishes like avocado on toast or chicken and waffles, though if you come later in the day you'll find the likes of cheeseburgers and Neapolitan pizzas.

Based on Baggot Street, Searsons one of the best pubs with outdoor seating in Dublin. Make the most of those rare sunny days with a cocktail (thanks to their 90+ bottle collection) at one of the city's most atmospheric outdoor spaces. The alfresco dining area is as striking as the glowing green interiors, thanks to its statement light fixture adorned with cherry blossom. Hungry? Tuck into cracking, hearty dishes such as truffle mafaldine pasta or Roaring Bay mussels to name a few of the fab menu items.

A stylish restaurant, Mackenzie's specialises in all things American; from fluffy pancakes covered in mascarpone, caramel sauce and pecans to stacked cheeseburgers with home-cut fries. This summer, head to the Hanover Quay spot to soak up some rays on the terrace while digging into a feast of epic proportions. Perch outside at one of the dark marble tables, Aperol in tow, and revel in stunning views of the city, as the sleek restaurant behind buzzes with the sound of happy diners. 

From weekend dates to graduation parties, this sky-high space is one to impress. Expect a menu of cucumber and elderflower martinis, cinnamon old fashioneds and lemon bon bons offset by beautiful 360-degree views of Dublin at The Marker Hotel's Rooftop Bar and Terrace. The venue is decked out with comfy sofas and striking white chairs with textured backs, alongside a sprinkling of greenery to give it a natural feel.

Sure, The Temple Bar may be known for its raucous nightlife and live performances, but did you know that the tourist hotspot also features a garden? Grab a round of drinks and check out the hidden outdoor space when you're not chilling on the patio. This bright red haunt boasts a large selection of craft beers to get your lips around, as well as a scrumptious food menu featuring oysters (think two bloody mary shots for €7.00) and their famous toasties, packed with baked ham, cheddar cheese and vine tomatoes.

Fitzsimons Bar has one of the cosiest rooftops in the city, and what can we say? She's a beaut. Spend your summer evenings at this staple and you can sip on classic cocktails, beer, wine and all the usual suspects while making the most of the warm weather. Food-wise, you'll be in for a treat with its mouthwatering selection of pizzas, topped by pepperoni and hot honey, alongside sourdough toasted sandwiches loaded with Dublin cheddar and baked Irish ham. 

Isabelle's is one of the city's most gorgeous Italian restaurants with outdoor seating. Head here for a European vibe that's extended to the interiors, where monochrome marble is met with a large open kitchen and Art Deco features, with elevated pasta dishes adding to the exclusive feel. Courses here include seared tuna tataki with pickled onions plus miso and avocado puree to start, followed by mains such as beef brisket pappardelle. This gorgeous den also has an expansive wine collection, as well as cocktails, with tipples like Ciao Bella, made with gin and Aperol, plus the spicy Antez Fury.

One of the best rooftop bars in Dublin city centre, The Grayson also fronts a stunning patio, perfect for sipping a signature cocktail like the Greek Fizz, made with Malfy Originale gin. It's an elegant space complete with white marble walls that contrast its darker floor. You'll find tropical-decorated cushions planted upon wooden chairs among leafy trees, creating a haven away from city life. Make the most of your evenings with delish eats such as miso-marinated aubergine or chicken supreme with confit cauliflower puree and florets.

Vintage Cocktail Club's rooftop area is one of Dublin's finest. Make your way through their menu of illicit, vintage-inspired sips while cosying up under heaters or topping up the tan (weather depending, obvs) and soaking up the always-bustling atmosphere of the quirky bar. The 1920s-style clandestine haunt dons pin-striped walls outside and large, arched windows, giving it a magical feel. Food-wise, you can expect to tuck into the likes of braised brisket with naan bread or arancini. The drinks menu is divided into sections where each spirit gets its main character moment, from absinthe delights like A.W.O.L to The Martini, 1883.

Located on William Street South, Little Pyg is ideal for outdoor dining. Offering a covered terrace space for chomping on their droolworthy slices that are up to Michelin guide-standard thanks to maestro Enzo Coccia. Its oven was built on site, brick by brick, and today is slinging out the likes of the white-based Alfredo's and the Italian Job, topped with spicy salame. This joint also knows a thing or two about signature cocktails, such as the enticing mango vodka-based My Fair Lady. And if you fancy going indoors? You'll find a wonderland of lush foliage that's made for Instagram snapping.

With a few streetside tables at the front and an alfresco space at the back of the venue, Sprezzatura is the place to be if you're craving pasta and a touch of vino. Chow down on authentic Italian cuisine made with fresh ingredients from Irish suppliers on the terrace, while sipping on Aperol spritzes in the sun at this Portobello gem. The seasonally updated menu means that you'll always be in for a surprise when you visit, with past inclusions seeing silky strands of pasta tossed in the most vibrant green pesto, as well as creamy carbonaras and arancini to start.

This stylish wine bar on Baggot Street boasts one of Dublin's best terraces. It's shabby and chic, with exposed grey brick walls, plush white sofas and a healthy sprinkling of plants, while its interior glows blue and pink. Make your way through sharing boards of Irish cheese and charcuterie, arancini with mozzarella, pea and mint, and prawn pil pil with organic bottles from across the globe to wash it down.

Like the idea of waterside drinking and dining as the temperatures rise? Angelina's has pretty outdoor space facing the canal, so you can kick back with a couple of glasses and a plate of freshly made pasta while enjoying a spot of fresh air. Pick a seat among an array of dainty tables with white marble surfaces, accompanied by floral chairs, and sink your teeth into the likes espresso-marinated duck breast, followed by a cocktail or two. 

Named after the street on which it lies, Fade Street Social is quite the city centre restaurant. It's got gorgeous interiors, a cracking menu of succulent steaks and cocktails, and a rooftop terrace offering plenty of space for alfresco dinner and drinks in the heart of Dublin. Outside you'll find flowers woven around wooden beams and a selection of seating to suit your dining needs. Here you can wolf down their signature sourdough flatbreads featuring parmesan, broccoli and nut butter, with a signature tipple, such as the vodka-based Rasberry Bon Bon, in hand.  

Perched on top of The Dean on Harcourt Street, this restaurant with outdoor seating in Dublin is one for all occasions be it date night, birthday or group dining. Be sure to check out Sophie's terrace with stylish furnishings and plenty of tanning opportunities. The restaurant itself boasts 360-degree views of the city and the menu is inspired by New York Italian nights as well as Irish cuisine. Come for brunch to feast on pancake stacks with hazelnut cream, coconut and white chocolate sauce, or arrive for dinner and pick from dishes such as pan-fried stone bass or seafood linguine. 

Taking over the top floor of The Mayson Hotel, Ryleigh's Rooftop Restaurant touts Insta-worthy views of Dublin Bay. Oozing sophistication with its checkered flooring, geometric print chairs and lush greenery, it's the ideal spot for a bite to eat with your beau, family or friends. When you're done snapping away, make the most of the outdoor terrace, where you can enjoy a set menu or pick from an array of classic grill dishes such as Tomahawk ribeye or seared cod alongside lemon and crab potatoes. Thirsty? Sip on bespoke cocktails like the Martini Seduction, made with vanilla and orange. 

Not only is The Grand Social one of the best music venues, but it's also home to a beer garden with a retractable roof that's perfect for when the weather is looking questionable and you're after some alfresco drinks with friends. The Liffey Street location is just seconds from the river and you'll find this atmospheric venture adorned with multi-coloured lights and revellers keen to sink classic cocktails like mojitos and old fashioneds.