Dublin’s best restaurants for festival season

Token is a multi-award winning restaurant, bar and retro arcade. It has over 40 games machines, a pinball parlour, three bars, and an extensive food and cocktail menu to boot. We can’t think of anywhere better to get into the festival spirit! The food consists of a high-end take on fast food favourites (think vegan Big Macs, hot wings, and decadent cheesecakes). There’s tonnes of vegan options (in fact, pretty much everything on the menu can be made vegan, including the chicken tenders), and the side dishes – hello bacon jam fries – are the perfect way to refuel after sweating out to some music. All the food is sourced locally and prepared fresh to order. If the party’s just getting started (or you fancy one for the road), the drinks selection is fab. We love the Hot Lips cocktail – complete with tequila, roasted pineapple, jalapeño, and lime – and the craft beers never fail to disappoint. 

Pygmalion is a glamorous, fun and friendly restaurant, bar, and club located in a cool 18th century townhouse. By day, you’ll be treated to some of the finest pizzas in all of Dublin (after all, they come recommended by the Michelin guide!), chilled-out vibes and plenty of mellow music. It’s two for one on all the pizzas seven days a week, and there are lighter options too, like salads and small Mediterranean-inspired plates. By evening, Pygmalion transforms into an eclectic, buzzing party spot, and welcomes a variety of international DJs like Soul Clap, Jamie Jones, and Marco Carola. You won’t want to miss Pygmalion’s famous cocktails: ‘pygmails’. Real highlights include the Red Violet Mojito and the Watermelon Spritz — super refreshing after a day of festival-going. Not one to miss!

What’s a festival without a slice of bubbling, golden pizza to enjoy in the sun? Rita’s is all about simplicity: good food, good drinks and good vibes. The atmosphere is laid back and relaxed, so if you’re looking for some respite from the pounding music, this is where to head. The team at Rita’s trained in Naples, where they learned all the tips and tricks of how to produce the most authentic pizzas. Using the finest Irish ingredients they can lay their hands on, a Rita’s pizza can be whipped up in just 90 seconds! There’s the classics (including a stellar margarita made with San Marzano tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, and fresh basil), as well as a selection of more adventurous choices like the Hot Chick, which comes topped with roast chicken, pine nuts, and sun dried tomato paste. All the pizzas come in at under €15, and the portions are large, making it a great spot for those watching their budget. Wash your pizza down with a cold beer (or even the well-loved limoncello spritz!) and thank us later.

Not only are there fantastic places to eat and drink pre- and post-music festivals in Dublin, in August there’s even a festival dedicated to food itself! Big Grill is Europe’s largest BBQ and craft beer festival. Alongside some seriously tasty food, you’ll find live acts, kids entertainment, talks and more. Showcasing some of the city’s top chefs and restaurants, Big Grill offers guests the opportunity to try new and exciting foods, and celebrate the art of cooking. Over 20 restaurants will take part in the festival, with the only rule being that they must cook with live fire using natural charcoal and wood only. Have fun sampling bites from each pitch and exploring cuisines from around the world. With plenty of theatre, opportunities to learn how to make your own beer, and plenty of meat, veggie, and vegan options too — everyone’s guaranteed a good time. Better yet, under 12s go free, what’s not to like? 

The Barge is a Dublin institution, known for ‘impromptu parties when the sun shines’. Sit back in the relaxed and contemporary setting as you enjoy the extensive range of delicious food, or even indulge in a boozy brunch! There’s just about everything on offer here. From lighter options like salad and mezze plates, to heartier fare such as nachos, ribs, and burgers (perfect for soaking up any excess alcohol) – no one will be left disappointed. Ideally located on the banks of the famous grand canal, the restaurant overlooks the lock gates at Charleston Bridge — a picture perfect spot to keep up the celebrations. The food is affordable and the staff are friendly, plus there’s often live music. For a fun-filled drink and meal in one of Dublin’s most treasured hospitality venues, you know where to head.