Nancy Hands
Enjoy some live Irish music on your next date night, alongside a pint of some of the finest Guinness in the city. There are plenty of gorgeous international dishes on the menu too, from smokey pulled pork fries to chicken parmagiana.
From Tinder meet-up jitters through to long-time ruts, dating is never a walk in the park. Fortunately, Dublin is one swell city when it comes to romance, with candlelit cocktail bars, fun pubs and slick restaurants to suit whatever you need. Get ready to fall head over heels and sweep your sweetheart off their feet with our picks for date night in Dublin.
Last edited by Scarlett Welch
Last updated on 1st December 2025
Enjoy some live Irish music on your next date night, alongside a pint of some of the finest Guinness in the city. There are plenty of gorgeous international dishes on the menu too, from smokey pulled pork fries to chicken parmagiana.
In the mood for amore? Pacino's is an unmissable date night restaurant in the city centre serving only the finest in Italian cuisine. Delve into their menu of fresh pasta, pizza and seafood classics while pairing with their curated selection of fine wines, it's sure to get sparks flying.
Whether you fancy cosying up in the main bar, or enjoying an alfresco date in their sunny beer garden, Searsons is a great pick for couples. This charming pub and restaurant can be found on Baggot Street. Expect traditional, dark interiors, and even live jazz performances on Sundays.
They've got a cracking all-day menu, featuring everything from homemade Shepherd's pie to seafood chowder and Buffalo chicken tenders. Plus, they were even voted best Whiskey Bar in Ireland in 2024.
For a truly unforgettable date night in Dublin, ASADOR offers a romantic and unique dining experience. The heart of the restaurant is its custom-made 1.2 tonne 'Asador' grill, where chefs skillfully cook the finest Irish produce over oak, apple, and charcoal fires.
The combination of the open kitchen, the sight of flames dancing, and the delicious aroma of the meal creates a captivating atmosphere for any couple. Whether you're unwinding over a cocktail, a glass of wine, or a cold beer, ASADOR promises an intimate and unforgettable evening out.
For an easygoing yet delicious date night in Dublin, LJ's Restaurant is a winner. Set in the elegant Louis Fitzgerald Hotel, the space is full of natural light, creating the perfect relaxed ambience.
Their menu has something for everyone, from beer-battered fish and chips to a juicy beef burger with smoked Applewood cheese. Plus, their carefully curated wine list ensures you'll find the ideal bottle to complement your meal.
Spice up date night with a trip to The Back Page, where arcade games, foosball, and endless fun await. Sing your heart out in the karaoke room, hit the bullseye in the darts room, and feast on mouthwatering pizzas like the Antonio Cassano (semi-sundried tomatoes on a white base) or the marghertia AKA Sonia O'Sullivan. Plus, with Fifa showdowns every Monday, chess nights on Tuesday, and hot wings and ping pong Thursdays, there's always something exciting to dive into.
If you're on the hunt for day date ideas in Dublin, check out Shuffleboard Bar. You and your boo can battle it out at pool, shuffleboard or even giant Connect Four, before tucking into hearty meat or plant-based burgers and other street food-style bites.
Impress your other half with a trip to Lemon & Duke in the city centre, a charming spot that blends the style of New York cocktail bars with the hospitality of an Irish pub. Whether you're dancing to live DJs on the weekend or after a romantic dinner, there's something for everyone here.
Their delicious menu features everything from burrata salad to a prime Irish beef burger or chicken parmigiana. As for drinks, expect draught beer or all kinds of creative signature cocktails.
Love a chilled out date night more than anything else? The Rag Trader is a traditional-looking boozer that's got vintage trinkets, wallpapered or wood panelled walls throughout and quirky mismatched furniture to boot. Pub grub from sister bar Dakota has you covered for food, while the bar here is over 100 whiskies strong, with stout, craft beer and cocktails on the cards too.
The Bank on College Green has all the ingredients for a memorable evening: dramatic architecture, glowing ambience, delicious cocktails, and a menu packed with flavour. Whether you're enjoying a quiet corner on the mezzanine or dining under the grand glass ceiling, it's a setting that's sure to impress.
The food is just as alluring as the décor. Start with a cocktail from the bar, then tuck into locally sourced dishes like their roasted monkfish or kale and ricotta ravioli.
Planning the perfect date night in Dublin? Kodiak offers just the right mix of sophistication and comfort. Its stylish interior, complete with rustic accents and soft lighting, sets the stage for an evening that's both romantic and relaxed.
Enjoy a glass of wine or a handcrafted cocktail while sharing a gourmet pizza, then linger over their impressive whiskey list. Whether it's a casual evening or a special celebration, Kodiak provides an effortlessly charming backdrop for couples looking to unwind and connect.
From cocktail experiences and entertainment to multi-course dinners, The Odeon is the ideal destination for a bit of everything on your next Dublin date night. Not only that, but the stunning space spans multiple floors in a Grade A-listed building, so it's quite the looker.
If you and your other half are after something a little different, then check out Flight Club on Dawson Street. They offer an interactive darts experience that comes with all kinds of fun minigames, and their high-tech dartboards even add up your scores for you.
Their weekend Brunch Social is a triple threat for date night too: mouthwatering bottomless pizza, a bottle of prosecco to yourself, and a fast-paced game of social darts. Add in the bar's playful fairground vibes, and you've got a day to remember. Tickets are €40 per person - don't miss out.
What's more sexy than a secret hideaway and illicit drinking? Check out what this secret den has in store for you, with its 1920s Prohibition vibes, low-lighting, and expertly-crafted libations. This hidden spot makes for one of the most unique date ideas in Dublin.
Nothing screams romance quite like a rooftop restaurant, so head on over to Sophie's and make the most of the stunning panoramic views while chomping away on their menu of Italian-inspired classics. If it's sunny? Make sure to check out their cute terrace space to soak up some rays.
A romantic boozer, La Cave Wine Bar is a hidden haunt with charm by the bucket load. Housing over 350 wines from House to Krug, as well as 40 wines by the glass, it's great for a few drinks or a French-inspired dinner with a potential match.
Seductive, one hell of a looker, and charming through and through; no, we're not talking about your date, but Vintage Cocktail Club. This popular pretty place hits all the right notes with quirky furnishings, velvet booths, and a punchy cocktail list.
The Ivy is guaranteed to get you both swooning if you're hunting for first date ideas in Dublin. Expect to find stunning interiors with bold colours and floral touches, while the menu offers equally impressive European cuisine with expertly crafted cocktails to wash everything down with.
If your sweetie loves chic interiors and decadent eats, then Pink is one of the most private places for couples in Dublin. Situated on William St South, this themed restaurant dishes out magenta-coloured cocktails and plates of Insta-worthy cuisine.
On the hunt for date night restaurants in Dublin? Situated in the Docklands, Ryleigh's Rooftop Restaurant is a stylish hideaway with impressive views of the city. Head here for your romantic night out and you can indulge in classic grill dishes while lounging at The Mayson Hotel.
Ohana is a tiki-inspired drinking den serving fruity cocktails giants a bold backdrop of handpainted murals, with an intimate cove in the basement for snuggling up by candlelight. If you're hoping to add a dash of whimsy to your date night, this is a top spot.
A plush pink paradise serving a menu of handpicked bottles from across the globe, Bobbys is a sleek spot for a romantic date night. Evenings here consist of delving into a plethora of high-quality finds, which can be paired with boards of bruschetta, Irish cheese and charcuterie.
They say food is the way to the heart, and when it comes as tasty as Bloom Brasserie, it's little wonder. The plush restaurant is great for wining and dining your other half, with dishes inspired by seasonal fare and cosy surroundings to sweep them away.
With a menu curated by Michelin Star chef Alfred Prasad, Doolally is on a mission to combine the finest Irish local produce with ancient Indian techniques. If you're looking for a date night destination that promises innovative flavours in plush surrounding, this is a top spot.