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The 5 Best Spice Bags in Dublin

Words: Shamim de Brún

Words: Shamim de Brún

The “spice bag” – an Irish takeaway favourite – is an internet sensation, with memes galore and a whole subgenre of food blogging content devoted to it. Aoife Dooley even immortalised it in her “Dublin Hun” illustrations.

If there is one thing writing this article has taught me is that the spice bag defies the laws of aesthetics and physics. It is fundamentally impossible to capture the glory of the spice bag through a camera lens. It is too raw, too primal, too beautiful to allow itself to be photographed like one of your French girls. And that’s part of its charm. A spice bag doesn’t need to be conventionally attractive it has a rugged primal sexiness that’s reminiscent of Robbie Williams at his peak. It makes you feel things you’ve never felt before and you might not know why, but you don’t care. It’s too good to not get stuck into.

It’s hard to say anything against it, but there is nothing more harrowing than a bad spice bag. So we’ve consolidated a little list of the five best ones Dublin has to offer.

05

Hong Kee’s Vegan Tofu Spice Bag

For those seeking a vegan twist on the traditional Spice Bag, Hong Kee’s tofu spice bag is a must-try. It’s a testament to how diverse and inclusive Dublin’s culinary landscape has become.

04

Red Rice

Kimmage’s Red Rice takes the top spot on our list, and while its Spicy Tray may not come in a bag, it certainly delivers a flavour experience that’s hard to beat. Packed with salt and chilli goodness, this €8.90 delight is a small-sized treasure trove of taste that has won the hearts of Spice Bag aficionados across Dublin.

03

Summer Inn Asian Food

Recently crowned the best Chinese Takeaway in Ireland, Summer Inn Asian Food has a unique offering in the form of their Dry Hot Chicken bag. With a fiery kick and super crispy chicken, it provides a thrilling alternative for those seeking a bolder Spice Bag experience.

02

Sunflower, Templeogue

The Spicebag creators themselves, Sunflower in Templeogue, hold a special place in the hearts of Dubliners. Their creation is the most requested Spice Bag in town, and its enduring popularity speaks volumes about its deliciousness.

01

Mr. Chen, Terenure

Located in Terenure, Mr. Chen’s Spice Bag comes highly recommended by numerous fans. While we ordered it extra spicy, the real magic here lies in the seasoning rather than the overwhelming presence of chillies. Nevertheless, the delectable chips elevate the overall experience.

Elsewhere on Char: The Dublin 100 Guide

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