Chinese dining in Dublin is a diverse experience, ranging from bustling joints perfect for group gatherings to intimate spots ideal for cosy noodle nights. While there are a myriad of cuisines within Chinese cuisine, our perfections of what makes Chinese food have long been dominated by Szechuan flavours.
These days, however, Dublin’s scene now boasts a rich tapestry of regional flavours, each deserving of recognition. I’ve tried to include a diverse range of the heavy hitters that are knocking it out of the park at the moment. But this is far from an exhaustive list. From chewy Xi’anese noodles to huge Cantonese spreads, these are Dublin’s unmissable Chinese restaurants right now.
A haven for authentic street food, Xi’an Street Food delights. One trip to this laid-back Xi’anese restaurant, and you feel like a cold skin liangpi noodle has wrapped itself around your hippocampus, squeezing out pretty much everything else you care about. But it’s not just those chilli oil noodles that are unmissable at this low-key spot in Dublin. It’s also the Xi’an Burger. And as everyone in this city and beyond knows, their spicebag is a standout, delivering a burst of flavour that keeps patrons coming back for more. It’s a casual place that’s perfect for a catch-up with friends or, more importantly, an urgent catch-up with some noods.
There is one very important thing to remember when you are hitting up Stoneybatter’s iconic Chinese spot — and that’s to arrive hungry, or you’ll have to make some very tricky decisions. Hakkahan’s modern Chinese fare lights up with dishes like basil Silverhill duck and six varieties of housemade dumplings. Booking ahead is advisable, especially to savour favourites like salt and pepper fresh squid and pork yuk sung. If you’re after a fancy feast, this is your place.
Big Fan is one of the ultimate IYKYK restaurants in Dublin. There are so many reasons to go to check it out, it’s hard to innumerate them here. Just know that I gave a voucher for this place to my cousin and his partner for Christmas because I was so secure in its quality I knew it would impress them. It just never disappoints, no matter how many times you’ve been. The menu is perfectly broad and varied enough for you to never get through everything. No matter how big your stomachs are. Cut a bao in half and then split your half with your partner. It’s funny but also kinda romantic. Plus, Big Fan is beautiful, with buzzers for staff, so it creates a whole fun 90s movie vibe.
From the creators of Hakkahan comes Nan, a high-end establishment specializing in Huaiyang cuisine. It feels like something of an introvert. You’ll find it sandwiched between a laneway and a cookie shop. Only this low-key Chinese restaurant on South Stephen Steet is making food that tastes far from run-of-the-mill. Don’t miss the xiao long bao, Shengjian bao, and deep-fried seabass, all of which showcase the subtlety and refinement of this regional cuisine. Nan’s electrifying dishes never cease to enchant. Whether you’re here for the first time or the 100th, it’s a new enough Dublin stalwart that always delivers.
This place can feel like a welcome respite from some of the trendier Asian spots of the moment. A Dublin institution, M&L Chinese offers an array of meaty and vegetarian dishes in a welcoming atmosphere. Renowned for its affordability and vibrant ambience, it’s the perfect spot for exploring authentic Szechuan flavours. Don’t miss their standout dish—green beans— I literally swear by them. This is a great spot for a catch-up with mates, a last-minute dinner, or anything really
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