Best Bistros in Merrion Square

Price

$$
$$$
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Regions

Dublin 2Dublin 4Dublin 5Dublin 8Dublin 9South County Dublin

Neighborhoods

BallsbridgeBeggar's BushCamden StreetDame StreetDrumcondra (D9)Grafton Street

Top Rated

CharmingFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasionsGreat for brunch

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Award-winning

MICHELIN

Accessibility

Wheelchair access

15 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

1. Roly's Bistro

4.4

Awesome(1380)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Bistro • Ballsbridge

Booked 10 times today

Roly's Bistro in Ballsbridge, Dublin, is a prime destination for lovers of authentic Bistro cuisine, consistently impressing since its opening in 1992. Revered for its traditional European menu, it offers unforgettable dishes, such as the famous fresh Dublin Bay Prawns. Diners rave about the "superb food" and "attentive staff," ensuring a consistently enjoyable experience. With a cozy atmosphere that captures the essence of a classic Irish brasserie, patrons delight in the "great value and quality" that Roly's delivers. A favorite for both casual meals and special occasions, Roly's Bistro remains a beloved culinary gem in Dublin.

A photo of The Brass Onion Bistro restaurant

2. The Brass Onion Bistro

4.7

Exceptional(228)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Bistro • Drumcondra (D9)

Booked 11 times today

The Brass Onion Bistro in Drumcondra, Dublin 9, is a delightful gateway to the Mediterranean, offering an authentic dining experience that is both vibrant and inviting. Known for its commitment to "the freshest ingredients from local suppliers," this bistro crafts dishes that are bursting with flavor and authenticity. Patrons rave about the "delicious and full of flavor" meals and the "superb food" that consistently impresses. The atmosphere is friendly and engaging, with staff who are "extremely nice and welcoming," ensuring every visit is memorable. With its warm ambiance and exquisite Mediterranean cuisine, The Brass Onion Bistro is a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

3. Chez Max

4.7

Exceptional(1425)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Bistro • Dame Street

Booked 30 times today

Chez Max, nestled on Dame Street in Dublin, offers a quintessential bistro experience that transports diners straight to the heart of France. Its charming Parisian ambiance, complete with a vintage indoor setting and a delightful heated terrace, sets the stage for an unforgettable meal. "The food was quality and we loved the French vibes," gushes one happy patron, while another praises the "authentic French Dining experience." The menu shines with classic bistro dishes such as Boeuf Bourguignon and escargots, complemented by an excellent wine selection. Consistently reviewed as a "little gem," Chez Max promises a genuine taste of France in Dublin.

A photo of The Cow Pub & Kitchen restaurant

4. The Cow Pub & Kitchen

4.8

Exceptional(53)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Bistro • Beggar's Bush

Booked 8 times today

The Cow Pub & Kitchen (formerly The Chophouse) is a vibrant and welcoming restaurant located just a stone's throw from the iconic Aviva Stadium, offering the perfect dining spot for both locals and visitors. Specialising in a diverse menu, it caters to all tastes with a focus on succulent steaks, fresh seafood, and a variety of creative vegetarian dishes. The warm, rustic décor combined with a lively pub atmosphere creates an inviting setting for a casual lunch, a pre-match meal, or a relaxing evening out. The Cow Pub & Kitchen promises a memorable dining experience with locally sourced ingredients and friendly service.

A photo of Old Fashioned Sam’s restaurant

5. Old Fashioned Sam’s

4.3

Awesome(46)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Bistro • Camden Street

Booked 5 times today

Explore Old Fashioned Sam’s – Dublin’s three-story hidden retreat. Cocktails, lunch, brunch and light bites served in our heated courtyard bar with a retractable roof, a hidden whiskey and cocktail speakeasy style haven at @samsparlour.ie, and dinner served in Laura's Restaurant from 3pm daily. A space crafted for unforgettable moments.For large group bookings, please contact hello@oldfashionedsams.ie

6. Hyde

3.2

Good(217)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Bistro • Grafton Street

Booked 3 times today

Hyde, located on Grafton Street in Dublin 2, offers an exquisite Bistro cuisine experience that truly stands out. The restaurant masterfully combines contemporary culinary techniques with fresh, seasonal produce, resulting in innovative dishes that are perfect for sharing. Guests consistently praise the "excellent food and staff," highlighting the "friendly and efficient" service that complements the vibrant, modern atmosphere. Hyde’s three distinct floors, including a stylish rooftop bar, provide an all-encompassing experience for every occasion. With its lovely ambiance and "amazing food and cocktails," Hyde is a must-visit spot for anyone seeking authentic and delightful Bistro cuisine in Dublin.

7. Balfes

4.6

Exceptional(53)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Bistro • Temple Bar

Booked 13 times today

Nestled in the vibrant Temple Bar area of Dublin, Balfes is celebrated for its exceptional Bistro cuisine that delights locals and visitors alike. The restaurant boasts "consistently enjoyable" dishes that are a true testament to the quality and authenticity of its offerings. With a sleek yet comfortable ambiance, Balfes provides a perfect setting for any meal, from a "great Dublin brunch spot" to an elegant dinner. Guests rave about the "exceptional service" and "quality food," making it a sought-after destination for those seeking an authentic Bistro experience. Its warm, lively atmosphere and attentive staff ensure every dining experience is memorable.

A photo of Pete's of Sandymount restaurant

8. Pete's of Sandymount

4.2

Awesome(44)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Bistro • Sandymount

Booked 5 times today

Pete's of Sandymount is a must-visit for pizzeria enthusiasts eager to experience authentic Italian-American flavors in the heart of Sandymount, Dublin 4. This beloved local gem has been a staple for over a decade, celebrated for its "fantastic food" and warm, "friendly and attentive" service. Guests rave about the "great food" and "wonderful ambiance," emphasizing the incredible taste and quality of their pizzas and calzones. With its relaxed atmosphere and family-friendly vibe, Pete's consistently delivers a memorable dining experience that keeps patrons coming back. Whether you're a local or just visiting, Pete's is sure to satisfy your pizza cravings.

A photo of 1837 Bar & Brasserie at Guinness Storehouse restaurant

9. 1837 Bar & Brasserie at Guinness Storehouse

4.7

Exceptional(934)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Bistro • The Liberties

Booked 11 times today

1837 Bar & Brasserie at Guinness Storehouse offers an exceptional Bistro experience in The Liberties, Dublin, showcasing the best of Ireland's culinary heritage. With a menu curated by award-winning chef Sean Hunter, every dish, from the renowned Guinness burger to the delightful Guinness chocolate mousse, is a testament to the quality and authenticity of its Bistro cuisine. Guests rave about the "delicious oysters and Irish stew," while others highlight the "perfectly prepared" smoked salmon and seafood pie. The stunning city views and attentive service further enhance the dining experience, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking an extraordinary meal in Dublin.

10. SURGE Grand Canal

4.3

Awesome(2)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Bistro • Grand Canal Dock (D2)

Grand Canal - Wine bar , Open Thursdays & Fridays till late . Selection of carefully selected organic / natural wines available . Cheese and charcuterie boads from the amazing Old Street restaurant in Malahide . Dog friendly inside and outside . The perfect spot for a relaxing glass of wine paired with some tasty cheese !

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

L
lee evelyn
Dublin •7 reviews
4.0
Dined 7 days ago
We were given a lovely round table in a booth, host was very pleasant and service was good. Fish was fresh and tasty.
More info
Old Fashioned Sam’sPrice: Expensive• Irish• Camden Street
•
4.3
D
Daniel
Dublin •6 reviews
5.0
Dined on Jun 18, 2025
Excellent food, service and ambience! Will go again.
More info
Roly's BistroPrice: Expensive• Seafood• Ballsbridge
•
4.4
H
Hazel
Dublin •2 reviews
5.0
Dined on Jun 15, 2025
Always such a pleasure to dine at the Brass Onion, from the minute you arrive the incredibly friendly staff are on hand to give you the best possible experience. The food never fails to deliver, from the coffee and fresh squeezed orange juice to the big breakfast and french toast - divine! I am living in the UK and whenever I am home to visit the Brass Onion is always our go to for family gatherings big and small - we have celebrated lots of happy moments here - thank you to all the truly gorgeous staff for making this moments special!
More info
The Brass Onion BistroPrice: Moderate• Bistro• Drumcondra (D9)
•
4.7
M
Michelle
Los Angeles •1 review
5.0
Dined on Jun 14, 2025
Great experience! The Cow Pub & Kitchen has a charming atmosphere, cute building and very friendly staff. Food and cocktails were amazing! Joe (manager) was a gracious and delightful host! We have already booked another dinner for our last night in Dublin ...and will be back again!
More info
The Cow Pub & KitchenPrice: Expensive• Gastro Pub• Beggar's Bush
•
4.8
E
emma
Dublin •8 reviews
5.0
Dined on Apr 4, 2025
Fabulous staff fabulous food overall fabulous Thankyou for looking after us guys 💖
More info
HydePrice: Expensive• Contemporary European• Grafton Street
•
3.2

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Merrion Square

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Grand Canal Dock (D2)
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Grafton Street
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International Financial Services Centre (IFSC)