The Best Coffee Shops in Dublin

Although tea is often the hot drink of choice for Dubliners, the coffee scene in the Irish capital would lead you to believe otherwise! Every time I visit the city, I come across a host of gorgeous coffee shops, and there always seem to be new cafes opening.

This is something that people are quite taken aback by when I mention it on my Dublin food tours, so I usually try to share my recommendations for any of my fellow coffee lovers. If you’re keen to try the top Dublin coffee shops for yourself, this article will be right up your street!

Where to Find Great Coffee in Dublin

While you generally won’t have to venture too far to secure a tasty cup of joe in Dublin, some neighborhoods are particularly celebrated for their coffee culture. This includes areas like The Liberties, Portobello, Smithfield, Ranelagh, and Stoneybatter, where I’ve found a mix of cozy cafes and eclectic specialty coffee shops.

Best Specialty Coffee Shops in Dublin

Brew Lab

Photo credit: Brew Lab

As far as specialty coffee experiences go, it’s hard to beat Brew Lab! This Dublin coffee shop has a team of award-winning baristas, a host of incredible bean varieties, and a chic yet minimalistic interior.

I started my morning off here with a punchy americano made from peachy Ethiopian beans, which I enjoyed so much that I ordered a second to-go! The coffee was the undisputed star of the show, but the flaky pork sausage roll was also superb.

Brew Lab – Dublin D02 E034 – Open every Monday to Friday from 7:30 am to 4:30 pm, Saturday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, and every Sunday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Proper Order Coffee Co

Photo credit: Proper Order Coffee Co

Proper Order Coffee Co is one of the most sought-after Dublin coffee shop locations, meaning it was the first spot on my list when I last visited the city. It was just as busy as everyone warned me it would be, and even though I had to wait a while for a table in their contemporary seating area, it was more than worth it.

The cappuccino made from chocolatey Colombian beans was just what I needed to fuel me up for the day, with warm, bittersweet flavors and a delightful layer of frothy milk on top.

Proper Order Coffee Co – Dublin 7 D07 WDX9 – Open every day from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Soren & Son

Photo credit: Soren & Son

During my most recent trips to the Irish capital, Soren & Son became my go-to Dublin coffee shop. It’s small but super stylish, and even though it’s a rather popular spot, I’ve rarely had any trouble getting a table here.

Both the coffee and pastries here are to die for, especially the pour-over brews and almond croissants. I usually went for the Costa Rican beans, as I love their bright, earthy taste. These intense flavors are a lovely contrast to the buttery croissant and its crunchy almond filling.

Soren & Son – Dublin 8 D08 V8F5 – Open every Monday to Friday from 7:30 am to 3:00 pm, Saturday from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, and every Sunday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Copper + Straw

Photo credit: Copper + Straw

Copper + Straw is among the most iconic coffee shops in Dublin, and the team here has expanded into various parts of the city. However, the trendy, industrial-style location near Temple Bar is my favorite, with its talented baristas and relaxed vibe.

I ordered their famous flat white, which was made from Guatemalan beans. The robust coffee was bursting with fruity undertones that complemented the soft sweetness of the milk, and after the first sip, I was glad I’d ordered the larger size!

Copper + Straw – Dublin 2 D02 FV38 – Open every Monday to Friday from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm and every Saturday and Sunday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Cozy & Unique Coffee Shops: Hidden Gems

If you want to move away from the classic Dublin coffee shops, you might be keen to try out retro spots like the Metro Cafe, a gorgeous venue for coffee, breakfast, and people-watching. The Music Cafe is another quirky option. When there are no live music sessions on the agenda, it’s a hub for remote workers or readers looking to curl up with a book.

Best Coffee Shops for Brunch Lovers

Photo credit: Two Boys Brew

Brunch fans will have endless eateries to choose from, where flavorful fare meets delectable coffee. No matter what your dietary preferences are, you’ll find some amazing dishes in much-loved cafes like Two Boys Brew, Brother Hubbard, and Social Fabric. Although the specific vibes and menus vary, each offers creative and classic brunch options to accompany your mid-morning coffee.

Final Thoughts & Recommendations

No matter what your coffee preferences are, I’m sure you won’t have any difficulty finding a brew to your liking in Dublin! Take your pick from chic specialty coffee shops, quaint cafes, and eateries that combine excellent coffee with flavorful fare.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best coffee shop in Dublin?

There’s plenty of debate among coffee drinkers about where to find the best coffee in the city, though spots like Brew Lab and Proper Order Coffee Co are often described as the best Dublin coffee shops.

Where can I find the best flat white in Dublin?

Some of the best flat whites in Dublin are found at Copper + Straw and Coffeeangel.

Are there good cafes for remote work in Dublin?

Kaph, Shoe Lane Coffee, and Third Space are among the top cafes in Dublin for remote workers looking for quality coffee.

Which coffee shops in Dublin offer the best pastries?

Check out Bread 41, Ella’s Heaven Cafe & Bakery, and The Orange Tree for exceptional coffee and mouthwatering pastries.

Do Dublin cafes serve Irish coffee?

Contrary to popular belief, Dublin coffee shops don’t typically serve Irish coffee, which is a much-loved whiskey-infused brew. It’s often available in restaurants or some bars, such as Vice Coffee Inc and The Stage Door Cafe.