Oysters in Dublin | Eating Europe

Fresh, briny, and steeped in Irish tradition is the way I would best describe Dublin’s oyster culture. While you might think of Brittany or even New Orleans as top oyster hot spots, the truth is that Irish oysters are a true gem nestled in the heart of the city’s coastal cuisine, and a must-try Dublin food for any visitor. .

You’ll find them all over the Irish capital from cozy pubs tucked into Georgian corners to sleek, contemporary seafood bars, there are plenty of places to enjoy oysters on a Dublin food tour.

When Is Oyster Season in Dublin?

Like most of the world’s great oyster cultures, seasonality is a critical component of enjoying oysters in Dublin. If you want to enjoy the best of native Irish oysters, the peak season lasts from September to April.

The old rule is that if there’s an R in the month, the oysters on your tray are likely from Irish waters. If the month doesn’t have an R in it, the oysters in the menu are likely Pacific/Giga oysters, which are good in their own right. They just don’t have the knock-your-socks-off briny flavor and firm texture of native Irish oysters.

Best Oyster Events and Festivals In Dublin

Dublin hosts a variety of oyster festivals that celebrate Ireland’s rich seafood heritage.

The Oyster & Stout Festival

The Oyster & Stout Festival at Urban Brewing is typically held in September to early October. It offers guided tastings of fresh Irish oysters, each is paired with locally brewed craft stouts. There are also demonstrations on shucking and pairing techniques, which I think adds to the experience.

All Shucked Up

In the coastal village of Howth, the All Shucked Up festival combines live music, oyster competitions, and Guinness pairings. They usually hold it in late February near the end of the native oyster season.

I love the vibrant atmosphere and all the different angles they cater to seafood enthusiasts. It’s an excellent opportunity to experience the flavors and traditions of Ireland’s coastal cuisine in a lively setting.

Where to Eat the Best Oysters in Dublin

Oysters are one of those must-try Irish foods that you’ll find everywhere from humble oyster bars to fine-dining restaurants.

Shelbourne’s Oyster Bar

Photo credit: Shelbourne’s Oyster Bar

Located in the luxurious Shelbourne Hotel, this elegant oyster bar offers a refined experience ideal for a special night out. The plush setting and historic charm of the hotel add to the sophistication. It’s a great place to linger over oysters and people-watch in one of Dublin’s most iconic venues.

They typically feature premium oysters like Kelly Gigas or Carlingford Lough. I love how they serve it with classic mignonette, a little fresh lemon, and paired with Champagne. The lemon and the body of the bubbly elevate the briny aromatic component of the oysters.

Shelbourne Oyster Bar (€€€) – 27 St. Stephens Green, Dublin 2, D02 K224.

The Seafood Café by Niall Sabongi

Photo credit: The Seafood Café by Niall Sabongi

A relaxed bistro-style spot, this café brings in the freshest oysters from all around Ireland. This includes native Irish varieties when in season as well as Kelly Gigas, Achill Island, and Flaggy Shore.

I appreciate the variety of styles they offer. You can have oysters served raw, grilled, or as part of vibrant sharing platters. The laid-back setting makes it easy to drop in for a casual bite while exploring the city.

I also appreciate that they have an oyster happy hour. I think it’s the perfect way to end an afternoon walking tour with a light drink and some delicious fresh oysters.

The Seafood Café (€€) – Unit 11, Sprangers Yard, Unit 11 Fownes St Upper, Temple Bar, Dublin, D02 EC60, Ireland.

Matt The Thresher

Photo credit: Matt The Thresher

A classic Dublin seafood bar and grill, Matt the Thresher has the charm of a traditional Irish pub with a focus on quality seafood. The wood-paneled setting and warm hospitality make it a lovely spot for a relaxed lunch or supper.

The oysters at the Thresher are often sourced from Carlingford and the West Coast, and most locals enjoy them served raw on ice. However, I think the best way is grilled with garlic butter, which really brings out the richness of the oysters. Pairing it with a pint of Guinness is almost obligatory.

Matt the Thresher (€€) – 31-32 Pembroke Street Lower, Dublin 2, D02 Y523, Ireland.

Culinary Ways to Enjoy Oysters

In Dublin, oysters are more than just a seaside delicacy, they’re a culinary canvas. You’ll find them raw on the half shell, traditionally served with a splash of mignonette, a squeeze of lemon, or a dash of Tabasco.

Many oyster bars and seafood restaurants get playful with toppings like raspberry vinaigrette, ponzu sauce, miso mayo, or crispy garlic butter.

Grilled oysters are another option, and my favorite way to enjoy them. If you’ve never tried oysters before, this is arguably the best way to start. They’re often served bubbling with herbed butter or parmesan crumbs.

Final Thoughts: Slurping Oysters Is a True Dublin Experience

Slurping oysters in Dublin isn’t just a meal, it’s a cultural rite of passage that needs to be included in a Dublin food tour. Whether you’re perched at a marble counter in an elegant seafood bistro or enjoying a casual plate at a buzzing pub, oysters are a flavorful connection to Ireland’s coastal heritage. Pair your oysters with a cold pint of Guinness, a glass of bubbly champagne, or enjoy them after a breezy coastal stroll along the River Liffey or Dublin Bay.