Where to book for Valentine’s Day in Dublin

There’s something almost naughty about being allowed in a gallery after hours. And on one of the naughtiest nights of the year, Margadh seems quite fitting. The restaurant is situated in the front of the Royal Hibernian Academy and are the folks behind famed Mamó of Howth. It’s been said before, and it will be said again; these guys offer one of the best value tasting menus in the city. The anchovy toast is a signature dish. It’s so good even anchovy haters will dig it. Just like, bring a mint or something.

Does the thought of sitting in a former coal bunker sound romantic (or even appealing) to you? Let us blow your mind and tell you that it IS. At Pearl Brasserie, you can dine at intimate booths for two on Cupid’s birthday. Honestly, these tables are THE MOST ROMANTIC TABLES IN IRELAND. If you’re feeling gourmet, the Pan Fried Duck Foie Gras is probably the best of its kind around, and the mini cornetto dessert is adorable. This place will likely be booked out so get on it. You’re missing a trick if you don’t ask for a booth!

Another tasting menu spot – but honestly, each plate these guys put out is a showstopper. Treat the twinkle in your eye to Parnell Street’s finest. A proper Northside treat. The food is banging at Mr Fox. Make sure to finish off your night of love by getting banjaxed in Fibbers after. Rock and roll bey-beh.

In a very unassuming basement on one of the busiest drinking streets in Dublin, is a super romantic tapas spot. The entire lower level dining area of The Port House is lit by candlelight. It’s class. And how cute is tapas for dainty date food? This place has a full vegetarian / vegan menu too for plant baes. A slightly more affordable option from the list.

Named after her grandmother, Grainne O’Keeffe opened up this swish tasting menu joint above the French Paradox wine shop in Ballsbridge. The staff are (mainly) French, charming, and very knowledgable. The menu perfectly pairs each course with a wine from the shop, and each dish knocks it out of the park. Our hot take is that this spot has some of the best snacks in Dublin. Oh and the steak knives are very cool too – the.team.lets.you.pick.your.own! You will be sure to leave all gooey and loved up, ready to head home with your flame. Just don’t think of grandmas…

Ooooo baby this is a good one. Go here. Sit side by side at the bar. This is much more intimate than sitting across a longer-than-it-is-wide table while you shout at each from a distance. Ask Josko to make you an olive oil cocktail (one of the best in the city) or drink the Mount Etna Sicilian red (we vote do both). We’d tell you what to order, but the menu’s always changing. But, if there’s some sort of sweet bread salad on the menu – get that.

If your sweetie pie brings you here we suggest you follow these exact instructions. 1) Excuse yourself halfway through the starter (tell them you need to tinkle). 2) Make a swift exit of the building and hightail it to the nearest jewellers. 3) Buy a diamond ring. 4) Immediately run back (make some excuse like there was a queue for the jacks) 5) Propose. As one of the few two Michelin starred restaurants in the country, this is a PROPA treat. Oh and you better not leave without ordering an Irish coffee. We’re serious.

Looking for a first date spot? Head to Red Torch Ginger. Asking someone out on Valentine’s Day is a bold move but fear not. As classy as the environment is, it’s also low-pressure and you can just chill with your date at the bar. But if you already like them and want to make your intentions clear, sit in a comfortable leather booth under a cherry blossom tree and share a glass of fine wine. The menu is as impressive as the interior; among South East Asian dishes you can find plates such as Pad Thai and Tom Kha. Remember, a way to someone’s heart is through their stomach and visiting Red Torch Ginger will definitely help you leave a positive impression.

Italian food is romantic, period. Whether you’re trying to keep the spark alive in a long-term relationship or have just met a potential sweetheart, you can’t go wrong with pasta. At Toscana, there are plenty of dishes you can share with your date, almost like in that scene from Lady and the Tramp. The Valentine’s special menu includes linguine with meatballs, rigatoni pasta with venison strips, carbonara and much more ready to warm you up on a cold night. Then you can steal glances at each other over a glass of wine.  Book a table today and be ready to invite romance into your life.

Bastible will make sure that your date goes smoothly; thanks to artfully prepared dishes in a relaxed setting and welcoming staff, you’ll feel at ease and enjoy the experience. Your partner will definitely appreciate the effort and marvel at the delicious food, too. An example of what you can eat is dry-aged beef, spiced aubergine, silver skin onion and gem, and William’s pear, praline and red wine for the dessert. If this sounds good, don’t forget to book your table. Spaces are limited.