Food in Ireland: From Traditional Favorites to Modern Twists
When people think about Irish food, the first image that comes to mind is often simple meat-and-potato dishes. But that’s only part of the story. Ireland’s food today is comforting, flavorful, and evolving. It's rooted in tradition but with plenty of modern twists.
From hearty stews and fresh seafood to sweet scones and a growing farm-to-table movement, Irish cuisine has a lot to offer. Here are some of my favorites (and a few you’ll want to try on your own trip).
Traditional Irish Staples
Irish Stew - This classic dish is simple but so satisfying; lamb (sometimes beef), potatoes, carrots, and onions simmered together into pure comfort food. You’ll find it on menus everywhere, from pubs to country inns.
Boxty - Think of this as Ireland’s take on a potato pancake. It can be served as a side or filled with savory ingredients like smoked salmon or chicken.
Soda Bread - Many Irish households have their own recipe, and it’s usually served thick-cut with butter or jam. It’s not sweet like American-style “quick breads,” but more dense and rustic.
Breakfast Worth Waking Up For
The Full Irish Breakfast is famous for a reason. Eggs, sausages, rashers (Irish bacon), black and white pudding, baked beans, grilled tomato, and toast - it's a meal that will keep you full until well past lunchtime.
Mary Lou’s Tip: Even if you don’t usually eat a big breakfast at home, try it once. It’s part of the cultural experience and a fun way to start your day.
Of course, cafés across Ireland also serve lighter breakfasts, such as granola, yogurt, and pastries, if you want something smaller.
Sweet Treats
Scones - Served warm with jam and cream, these are everywhere from hotels to small-town bakeries. Perfect with a pot of tea.
Apple Tart - A true Irish classic. Often homemade, it’s usually served with cream or custard for a simple but delicious dessert.
Irish Ice Cream - If you’re in Dingle, don’t miss Murphy’s Ice Cream. Their flavors (like Dingle Sea Salt) are unforgettable. Elsewhere in Ireland, you’ll notice the ice cream is creamier than you’re used to, thanks to the rich local dairy. And of course, you’ll spot the beloved “99” everywhere: a soft-serve cone with a Flake chocolate bar tucked in. It’s an Irish summer tradition.
Seafood Beyond Fish & Chips
Ireland’s coastline means seafood is always fresh and often locally caught.
Mussels - Often steamed with garlic and cream, especially on the west coast.
Oysters - If you’re near Galway, this is the place to try them.
Smoked Salmon - Famous in places like Connemara, Donegal, and the Burren Smokehouse. You’ll see it on breakfast menus, in sandwiches, and on starter plates.
Modern Irish Cuisine
In recent years, Ireland has experienced a food renaissance. Chefs are reimagining traditional dishes and focusing on farm-to-table cooking. Expect menus that highlight local meats, cheeses, vegetables, and seafood prepared with a modern twist.
Most meals in Ireland won’t break the bank, but we splurged on a Michelin-star dinner at the Homestead Cottage in Doolin this summer. It was one of the best meals I’ve ever had, and worth it for a special occasion.
Drinks to Pair With It All
Tea - Always on offer, always comforting. It’s as much about the ritual as the drink itself.
Guinness - Love it or not, it’s part of the experience. It truly tastes different (and better!) in Ireland.
Irish Whiskey - Jameson and Bushmills are well known, but smaller distilleries like Redbreast and Teeling are worth seeking out.
Craft Beer & Cider - Both have grown in popularity, and you’ll see them on tap in many pubs.
Final Thoughts
Ireland’s food isn’t flashy - it’s warm, filling, and full of heart. Whether you’re tucking into a traditional stew, enjoying tea with a scone, or trying modern twists in a Dublin bistro, you’ll experience Irish culture in every bite.
So, by all means, have the fish & chips, but don’t stop there. You’ll be glad you tried a little bit of everything.
