Char’s Guide to The Liberties, One of the World’s Coolest Neighbourhoods
Words: Hannah Lemass
The Liberties has been named the 23rd coolest neighbourhood in the world by Time Out magazine. It’s one of Dublin’s oldest quarters, and every Dubliner knows it truly is the heart and soul of the city.
Frankly, Ireland was built in The Liberties. In the 18th and 19th centuries, it was the epicentre of brewing and distilling, a legacy that lives on today. As you wander its storied streets, the sweet aroma of roasting barley from James’s Gate fills the air, while an electric energy buzzes all around.
For generations, The Liberties has drawn people from across the globe, so it’s no surprise it has finally caught the attention of Time Out.
The magazine credits the area’s coolness to its vibrant food, drink, history and culture scene. It’s a true melting pot. In the space of just a few streets you can get empanadas and dulce de leche desserts from Bakology, Korean specialities at Space Jaru, and fine dining at Michelin-starred Variety Jones. You’ll also find classic comfort foods from the likes of Fusco’s and The Ginger Café. And it’s a coffee lover’s paradise, with favourites such as Two Pups, Legit Coffee, and Soren & Son.
Naturally, considering The Liberties is the historic home of Ireland’s drinks industry, the pubs are second to none. From a cosy old-man boozer steeped in history, like Fallon’s, to contemporary hangouts with craft beers and wood-fired pizza at Lucky’s, The Liberties offers it all – and yeah all served with a generous scoop of ‘cool’.
In recent years, the neighbourhood has changed a lot. The line between rejuvenation and gentrification is sometimes blurred and often crossed, but what never fades is the community spirit, the buzz of life, and the energy you feel with every step through its historic streets. At the end of the day, it’s the people who make The Liberties cool. Don’t forget it.
There’s so much to see, do and experience here from the distilleries and the Liberty Market to Marsh’s Library and St Patrick’s Cathedral. Exploring can be thirsty, hungry work, so let this guide point you towards some of our favourite spots along the way.
Fuscos
The Dublin chipper is an absolute institution and Fuscos stands as one of the originals. It is made all the more unique because you can sit in and enjoy your chippy tea. They serve all the classics, even the ones you do not see around as much anymore, like ray. You really feel like you are stepping back in time when you come here, with so much comfort and nostalgia in every visit.
Spitalfields
Spitalfields is hands down one of the best restaurants in the city. And that is not just us talking, the Michelin Guide also recognises it with a Bib Gourmand for good quality and good value cooking. The food is a divine take on classic Irish dishes that never disappoint. Where this restaurant truly shines is in its service. Michelin even awarded them the Welcome and Service Award in 2023, and that same standard of excellent attention to detail and genuine care for guests continues today.
Bakeology
If you have not tried an Argentinian sweet treat yet, you have not lived. Bakeology now has not one but two locations on Meath Street. One is more of a café for takeaway desserts and coffees, while the new spot offers more substantial dishes. Their empanadas are a delight, with crispy pastry stuffed with luscious fillings. You also have to try a traditional alfajor, and if you have a high enough sugar tolerance, treat yourself to a dulce de leche latte too. They are the stuff dreams are made of.
Variety Jones
You cannot talk about the Liberties’ culinary scene without shouting out Variety Jones. This Michelin-starred restaurant strikes the perfect balance of elegant, high-end dining in the most relaxed, no-nonsense setting. They offer an expertly crafted chef’s choice sharing menu meaning you eat what you are given. You simply have to lean into it with trust and it never disappoints with food and wine that are just utterly awe-inspiring.
Fallon’s
There’s no shortage of immaculate boozers in The Liberties, but one of the standouts has to be Fallon’s, otherwise known as The Capstan Bar. What makes this 400-year-old pub so special is the intimate feel of the place. It’s small, making it impossible to resist getting caught up in the warm atmosphere. It’s the kind of spot where you can settle in on a frosty afternoon with a perfect creamy pint, a piping hot toastie, and strike up a conversation with the person next to you.
Two Pups
Two Pups is the definition of a perfect all-rounder. They are masters of the coffee bean, serving up delightful cups of high-end coffee alongside their fresh, seasonal and utterly moreish brunch dishes and pastries from their very own bakery, Bold Boy. And because they know we simply cannot get enough, they open in the evenings too, transforming into Notions, a wine bar with a delectable spread of small plates and a masterfully curated wine list that could bring a tear to your eye.
The Fumbally
Right on the edge of The Liberties sits one of the best cafés in the country. They’re renowned for their bread, baked goods, and wonderful brunch and lunch dishes. Here, ingredients are treated with respect, and you can taste the difference. Everything is seasonal, sourced from local suppliers, or even grown in their own garden. Sure, it doesn’t get fresher than that. But it’s more than just food. This place has become a true community hub, hosting cultural and gastronomic events from supper clubs to artisan markets. It feels like so much more than a café; it’s a creative collective of food and art lovers who know how to appreciate life and savour the moment.
Space Jaru
If you’re looking for a casual place to grab a quick yet satisfying and high-quality meal with friends before a Vicar Street gig or a night on the town, Space Jaru is always a winner. They serve top-notch Korean fare using the best Irish ingredients from traditional dishes like bulgogi and dakgalbi to over-the-top Korean fried chicken burgers. They even make their own kimchi, which you can buy by the pouch to get a taste of Korea at home.
Arthur’s
The heavyweight champion of Dublin’s fireplace scene, Arthur’s boasts a magnificent open hearth that makes you feel like landed gentry lounging in a country manor, except here, you’ve also got the easy-going charm of a proper local. The Guinness is top-tier, the pub grub hits the spot, and live blues and jazz most evenings keep spirits as warm as your toes. History seeps through the walls here. Don’t be unnerved if, while sipping your pint by the fire, you find yourself gazing at the death mask of Robert Emmet. He was executed nearby, and his likeness now sits above the hearth as a reminder of the Liberties’ storied past.
Fayrouz
A true “if you know, you know” kind of spot, this place serves authentic Lebanese cuisine in generous portions, executed beautifully. Walking in feels like stepping into a fever dream with the rich and opulent décor. It’s a delightful surprise, not something you’d expect to find. You can really escape from the world here and just focus in on exploring all the dishes they have to offer. The menu bursts with fresh, bright flavours, from cheese-filled pittas (Arayes) to succulent grilled meats, everything is wonderful and theres something to satisfy everyone in the group.
