Mid Range Pubs in Dublin

Just what Dublin needed - another gastropub masquerading as fine dining. The Old Spot sits there on Bath Avenue, smugly collecting accolades while I roll my eyes at yet another "elevated pub experience." But damn them for actually living up to the hype. I arrived determined to hate it. The exterior is understated to the point of being almost apologetic, which in Dublin usually means either spectacular food or spectacular disappointment. The dim lighting inside screams "we're fancy now," though I'll grudgingly admit it creates an atmosphere that works equally well for a casual pint or a proper dinner. Let's address the elephant in the room - The Old Spot has been flirting with Michelin recognition, and unlike most Dublin venues with similar aspirations, they haven't let it go to their heads. The menu prices won't make you choke on your Guinness, though they're certainly not giving it away. But here's the infuriating part: nearly everything is worth what they're charging. Take their wagyu burger, for instance. I ordered it fully prepared to pen a scathing critique about pretentious beef, but the perfectly cooked patty, paired with hand-cut fries that somehow maintain their crispiness well past the point of scientific reason, left me struggling to find fault. It's like they're not even trying to give me material to work with. The fish and chips - a dish I've consumed in approximately 847 Dublin pubs - manages to distinguish itself with a batter so light it borders on ethereal. Even their mushy peas (a side dish that usually resembles something you'd find in a baby's nappy) are surprisingly palatable. Who gave them the right? The Sunday roast deserves its own paragraph, if only because it's single-handedly ruining other Sunday roasts across the city. The portion sizes are generous enough to satisfy even the most hardcore hangover, yet they maintain the finesse you'd expect from a place with Michelin ambitions. It's an impressive balancing act that makes me irrationally angry. Service here walks that fine line between attentive and hovering, and somehow manages not to fall off the tightrope. The staff knows their stuff without being pretentious about it - a rare combination in Dublin's dining scene. They'll help you navigate the wine list or suggest a craft beer without making you feel like an idiot, which is refreshingly civilized. The drinks program deserves mention, if only because they've managed to create a list that satisfies both the "just a pint" crowd and the "let me tell you about this small-batch gin" brigade. Their cocktails are particularly good, though I'm loath to admit it. The salted caramel espresso martini is basically dessert in a glass, and I'm not even mad about it. Speaking of dessert (which I usually ignore because let's be honest, most Dublin restaurants treat it as an afterthought), they've somehow managed to make this course worth saving room for. Though if you've somehow managed to save room after their generous main courses, you have more self-control than I do. The restaurant draws a mixed crowd - suits from the nearby offices, locals treating it as their regular, and tourists who've somehow stumbled upon it. The fact that it works for all of them is annoyingly impressive. You'll want to book ahead, especially for Sunday roast, unless you enjoy the particular pleasure of watching other people eat while you wait for a table. Look, I didn't want to like The Old Spot. Dublin has enough gastropubs-turned-fine-dining establishments to sink the island. But they've managed to create something that actually works - a venue that elevates pub food without losing its soul, maintains quality without breaking the bank, and delivers consistency without becoming boring. It's infuriating. Go ahead and book a table. Join the chorus of satisfied diners. Just don't tell them I sent you - I have a reputation to maintain. And for the love of all things holy, if you're visiting from abroad, remember to tip. It may not be required, but after a meal here, you'll want to anyway. The Old Spot has earned it, despite my best efforts to prove otherwise.

Nestled in the distinguished suburb of Booterstown, Gleesons of Dublin stands as a testament to the evolution of Irish hospitality, where traditional pub culture seamlessly melds with contemporary dining expectations. This beloved establishment, anchoring the corner of Rock Road since the mid-20th century, has grown from a modest public house into a multifaceted venue that captures the essence of modern Dublin's culinary and social landscape. The story of Gleesons of Dublin mirrors the transformation of Booterstown itself, from a quiet seaside village to an integral part of Dublin's sophisticated southern suburbs. The venue's location, minutes from the iconic Booterstown Marsh and with views stretching toward Dublin Bay, connects visitors to both the area's natural heritage and its urban development. This duality is reflected in Gleesons' thoughtful renovation over the years, which has preserved the warmth of a traditional Irish pub while introducing elements that cater to contemporary tastes. In a city where historical pubs often struggle to maintain relevance without sacrificing character, Gleesons of Booterstown has achieved a remarkable balance. The establishment's evolution from a local watering hole to a comprehensive hospitality venue reflects broader changes in Dublin's social fabric, where establishments must serve multiple functions for an increasingly diverse clientele. The venue now seamlessly transitions from morning coffee spot to business lunch destination to evening dining room, all while maintaining its essential "local" feel. The interior spaces tell their own story of adaptation and respect for tradition. Original architectural features blend with modern comfort, creating distinct atmospheres throughout the venue. The bar area retains the intimate feel of a traditional Dublin pub, while the dining spaces offer a more refined setting that stops short of pretension. This thoughtful design approach has created a space where both longtime locals and visitors feel equally at home. What sets Gleesons apart in Dublin's competitive hospitality scene is its commitment to quality across all its offerings. The kitchen demonstrates a clear understanding of its market, presenting a menu that honors Irish culinary traditions while incorporating contemporary influences. Classic dishes are executed with precision, while seasonal specials showcase more adventurous culinary approaches, reflecting Dublin's evolving food culture. The service style at Gleesons of Dublin reveals much about its position in the local community. Staff members strike that characteristically Irish balance between professional efficiency and personal warmth, contributing to the venue's reputation as a place where genuine hospitality still matters. This approach has earned the establishment a loyal following among locals while attracting visitors who seek authentic Dublin experiences beyond the city center. Throughout the day, Gleesons serves as a barometer of local life. Morning trade brings early risers and business meetings over coffee, while lunchtimes see a mix of professionals and locals gathering for reliable fare. Evenings transform the space into a vibrant dining destination where families, couples, and friends converge, creating an atmosphere that epitomizes the modern Dublin pub-restaurant hybrid. The venue's pricing structure reflects its position in the market - neither budget nor exclusive - making it accessible to a broad spectrum of the community while maintaining standards that justify its popularity among more discerning patrons. This positioning has proven crucial to its sustained success in an area where residents expect value without compromising on quality. Particularly noteworthy is how Gleesons of Booterstown has maintained its relevance through Dublin's rapid social and economic changes. While many traditional pubs have struggled to adapt to changing consumer preferences, Gleesons has evolved without losing its soul, demonstrating how historical establishments can remain vital community assets. For visitors seeking to understand contemporary Dublin beyond tourist trails, Gleesons of Dublin offers an authentic glimpse into how the city's hospitality scene has evolved. It stands as an invitation to experience the warmth of traditional Irish hospitality in a setting that acknowledges modern expectations. Whether stopping in for a pint, gathering with family for Sunday lunch, or seeking a reliable venue for a special occasion, Gleesons offers a genuine slice of Dublin life that continues to write new chapters in its ongoing story.