Where to find authentic American diners in Dublin

3Brothers is the place to hit up if you’re craving a hit of deliciously-dirty dishes. The wings are a highlight here, crispy on the outside and packed with flavour, available in a range of sauces that are sure to satisfy any spice level. But it’s not just about wings—this spot serves up juicy burgers, loaded fries, and all the hearty favourites you’d expect from a great American diner – think nachos, chicken tenders, chilly cheesedogs, and Philly cheesesteaks. Whether you’re grabbing a casual meal with friends or enjoying a laidback dinner for two, 3Brothers brings the best of American comfort food to Dublin.

Modelled after the infamous Batman comics, Gotham Café in Dublin is a top pick for anyone craving hearty American-style comfort food with a modern twist. Known for its casual vibes and extensive menu, it offers everything from juicy burgers and crispy pizzas to flavoursome chicken and striploin steak. The portions are generous, the flavours are bold, and the cosy setting makes it perfect for a casual meal with friends or family. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic diner-style breakfast or a filling dinner, Gotham Café delivers a satisfying taste of America right in the heart of Dublin.

We start off this list in the stylish and contemporary Southside village of Ranelagh, where the New York inspired TriBeCa serves up a self -described “casual but grown up” menu. When you’re sat in TriBeCa, the restaurant has an upmarket New York style interior and a wide-ranging menu to match. TriBeCa is home to some of the most famed buffalo chicken wings in Dublin with a platter of 20, plus some Cashel blue cheese dip for €17.95.

Their stir-fried fillet of beef with oyster sauce is another winner. Wash it all down with one of their many craft beers and you’ll only be ready for more! TriBeCa also features a brunch menu, with their huevos rancheros and bloody Mary making for the perfect pairing. There’s no doubt that TriBeCa is a great place to start your American food journey in Dublin.

It would be easy to believe that Grafton Street only hosts tourist-trap and chain restaurants these days. However, restaurants do not get more American than Captain America’s! Overlooking the top of Grafton Street, Captain America’s features the classic American diner design, with tacky street signs, rock and roll blaring over the speakers, and even a life-size Captain America statue to greet you on your way in!

The menu is a foodie’s dream. The classic hamburger has been a customer favourite since their opening in the 1970s, but there’s no skipping out on their Philly cheese steak! If you’ve got a hankering for a big meal, their 12 oz rib eye steak is mouthwatering. Great for student deals too, with a main menu item, hand-cut chips, and a drink for €11.95.

One of Dublin’s longest standing American restaurants, Elephant & Castle is a mainstay of Temple Bar and one of the most interesting restaurants around. The establishment was originally founded by a German man who relocated to New York, taking inspiration for the restaurant name from his childhood hometown in London. After successfully setting up Elephant & Castle in Manhattan, the founder took inspiration from Temple Bar’s cobbled streets, and located their first restaurant outside the States in the heart of the fair city.

Their menu consists of a range of beautiful salads and burgers using locally sourced ingredients. However, Elephant & Castle are renowned for their chicken wings, believed to be some of the best in Dublin. The brunch menu is a specialty too, with Eggs Chiapas featuring vintage cheddar and refried beans – Elephant & Castle will have you dining in style.

Staying among the cobbled streets of Temple Bar for our last entry to the list, but certainly not the least! Thunder Road Café is a true American diner with a party atmosphere. In a darkened room under neon lights, with a DJ spinning all of your favourite tunes, Thunder Road is unmissable when it comes to a pre-night-out dinner. Start off with their in house ‘Daytona Skins’ with loaded smoked applewood bacon and cheese. As for their mains, their award-winning burgers from the Irish national burger day competition truly says it all.

The USA Burger for €14.95 is a must have, completed with a scintillating bourbon bun. On the drinks side of things, Thunder Road has you covered. With their house cocktails for only €8 (some of the best cocktail prices you’ll get in the city centre) and the option to buy a ‘Thunder Beer Tower’ of Coors Light, Thunder Road Café encompasses everything you need for an authentic American restaurant experience.