This guide to the best breakfast in Dublin only contains places that we’ve been to 2+ times and that have been consistently excellent.
This is going to be a long one. Today, we’re diving into the best breakfast spots in Dublin. I had to do 100s of hours of research to get here and I know, there will still be debates.
I’ve picked my top 10 favourites based on the atmosphere, price, and, of course, the taste of the food.
Here are the spots that made the list:
- Balfes
- Lemon Jelly Café
- Tang
- Beanhive
- Alma
- Bibi’s
- Brother Hubbard
- Joy of Chá
- Keogh’s Cafe
- The Pepper Pot Cafe
Let’s dive deep!
Best restaurants near me
Best Breakfast in Dublin: A Quick Comparison
Lemon Jelly Café- Delicious Crepes and Friendly Service
Lemon Jelly Café is one of my favorite breakfast spots for its friendly and efficient service, even during peak hours. It’s a must-visit if you’re in Dublin, especially if you prefer sweet dishes over savory ones.
Although Lemon Jelly Café might seem like a pancake or crepe place, its menu offers much more. From a hearty full Irish breakfast to lighter options like French toast or a croissant with mozzarella, tomato, and pesto, there’s something for everyone. They also cater to vegetarians with a variety of sweet and savory crepes, and you can enjoy it all with fresh tea, coffee, or a refreshing smoothie.
Technically, their breakfast and brunch menu is only served until midday, but their lunch offerings make Lemon Jelly Café feel like an all-day breakfast spot. The lunch menu includes two dozen varieties of crepes and nine different types of omelets, all served with toast. You’ll find eggs prepared in every style imaginable, French toast with syrup and fruit, the full Irish breakfast, a veggie breakfast with eggs, hash browns, beans, and avocado, and more!
Pro-tip: Don’t miss their fantastic fruit smoothies and the highly recommended Lemon Jelly special dish—a flavorful combination of chicken salsa, mozzarella cheese, cheddar, and mayonnaise sauce.
When I visited on a Sunday morning, even early on, there was a line around the corner. However, the staff managed it efficiently, handing out menus and keeping customers informed about the wait time. I didn’t have to wait more than 15-20 minutes. so I didn’t wait more than 15-20 minutes.
I wanted almost everything on the menu as soon as I saw it, they have some delicious juices, smoothies, and a mix of dishes that will satisfy any craving. The Irish Vegetarian breakfast was excellent—perfectly cooked eggs, crispy hash browns, and incredibly savory mushrooms that were addictive. The mocha I ordered was not too sweet with a bitter edge (which I enjoy). It kept me full for hours on end. Prices are reasonable, with crepes starting at just €5.50, offering great value in a city with many expensive options.
The staff here are truly a blessing—knowledgeable and always ready with helpful recommendations. Our server, Theo, was especially friendly and accommodating to my gluten intolerance.
Service was quick and efficient, both in taking orders and serving food. Despite the fast-moving queue, the atmosphere remained pleasantly relaxed. We enjoyed our mocha and didn’t feel rushed to leave when we were done. This is thanks to their thoughtful arrangement—the café has plenty of space, with 72 seats inside and 60 outside, making it easy to find a spot. The café’s welcoming vibe, with nice music and decor, makes the experience even better.
If you’re in the Millennium Walkway area and craving a great breakfast or coffee, make sure to stop by Lemon Jelly Café for some delicious crepes, cheesecake, and a strong Irish coffee.
Beanhive- Cozy Cafe with Stunning Latte Art
Beanhive is a cozy, quirky café in the heart of Dublin, just a short walk from St. Stephen’s Green and Grafton Street. Its central location makes it a convenient stop for anyone exploring the city.
Beanhive was my first stop after my overnight flight. This café is best known for its incredible latte art, featuring everything from simple hearts to detailed designs of animals, cartoons, and even special messages. This family-owned favorite features an award-winning barista, Fan, whose talent has given the café a reputation for excellent coffee and even more impressive latte art. If you ever went around Dawson Street, you must have found locals and tourists being filled in this place.
Like everyone else, I was mostly drawn to Beanhive for their famous latte art. However, during my visit, I discovered they offer much more. Their breakfast options are fantastic, with a varied and unique menu. I tried the full Irish breakfast, which included two sausages, two pieces of bacon, a fried egg, beans, and toast, all for €16. It was exceptional–every bite, from the perfectly fried eggs to the crispy bacon, was simply mouthwatering.
If you’re looking for something even heartier, the Super Breakfast is a fantastic choice—it’s like the Irish breakfast but with added pudding, hash browns, and mushrooms. They even offer vegan and vegetarian variations, so there’s something for everyone. The best part? Breakfast is served all day, so you can enjoy it morning, noon, or early evening.
One unique feature at Beanhive is their sustainable edible cups. I highly recommend trying one—they’re not only eco-friendly but also delicious. To make your visit even more fun, you can also ask for art to be painted on top of your hot beverage., which is a cool touch if you haven’t experienced it before.
Inside, Beanhive is small and intimate, with only a few tables inside and more seating outside. Despite its size, It can get quite busy, but it’s definitely worth the wait. Plus, the prices are surprisingly low for such a great experience. The staff at Beanhive are incredibly friendly and accommodating, making you feel right at home. We were particularly impressed by their patience and the fact that some of them spoke Mandarin in addition to English.
The only downside? The service can be a bit slow, so I wouldn’t recommend stopping by if you’re in a rush. But it is a nice place to pop by if you’ve got time on a weekend. And because the café is so small, finding a seat can be a challenge, but if you do manage to grab one, consider yourself lucky!
I highly recommend stopping by Beanhive for coffee, snacks, or a full meal if you’re exploring Dublin. Just be sure to get there early, as it can get quite busy due to its popularity!
Tang: Fusion of Asia and Europe
If you love a mix of Asian and European flavors, Tang is the place for you! They’re known for their Mediterranean and Middle Eastern-inspired breakfast and lunch, all while staying committed to sustainable dining.
Tang is a true example of sustainable dining. They focus on local sourcing, ethical food choices, organic produce, and ethically raised meat. They prove that healthy, hearty meals can be full of flavor and not at all bland. With locations on Dawson St., Abbey St., and Cumberland Place, you’re never far from some of the best breakfasts in Dublin.
It’s one of my favorite breakfast spots in Dublin. The café is a charming, small corner place with big windows, some outdoor seating, a few inside tables, and bar stools by the window. You’ll enjoy watching the foot and car traffic outside. Plus, you can watch the kitchen prepare your food, which is always fun, especially when you see your breakfast being cooked in cute little pans!
I’ve tried everything on the breakfast menu, and while it’s small and simple (always a good sign), my favorite is the shakshuka (eggs baked in tomato, harissa, and red peppers). If you prefer a veggie-heavy option, their mushrooms on toast are unbeatable—marinated in tamari and ginger, served on sourdough with a crispy fried egg, zesty lemon yogurt, herb oil, and dukkah.
Last time, I had Shakshuka, toast with jam, and mushrooms on toast Though the items might sound simple, they’re packed with flavor and carefully prepared, making every bite special.
The staff at Tang are always friendly and welcoming, and it’s clear they genuinely enjoy working there. Even when the place gets busy, they greet every customer with the same enthusiasm.
Tang might be a bit more of an American/touristy spot, but it’s still cute and delicious. The café is small and they close seating between meals to turn over the kitchen, so plan your visit accordingly.
If you’re looking for a tasty, healthy breakfast in Dublin City, Tang is definitely worth a visit!
Balfes: Satisfying yet Healthy breakfast
If you want to treat yourself to a pre-work breakfast, head to Balfes! This bright and beautiful spot sits under the Westbury and offers a range of breakfast options, from indulgent classics to lighter, healthier choices. There’s even a special section on the menu designed by personal trainers, packed with protein to kickstart your day.
it is perfect if you’re looking for a cozy breakfast or a place to hang out with friends. It has a stylish 20-seater outdoor terrace, a zinc-covered bar, and an open kitchen where you can see all the action.
If you’re in the mood to indulge, you can’t go wrong with their Buttermilk Pancakes with Honeycomb Butter, a dish that has become a favorite among regulars for its fluffy texture and rich flavors.
For a healthier alternative, the BodyByrne menu offers high-protein options like the BodyByrne Breakfast, which comes with eggs, avocado, black pudding, tomato, and turkey. It’s perfect if you want to refuel after a workout or just start your day on a nutritious note. Balfes also caters to various dietary preferences with options like the Vegan Breakfast. And if you’re craving something savory, the Eggs Benedict or Smashed Avocado on Sourdough are always a hit.
I tried the omelet with salmon, and it was delicious! The presentation was on point, too. The gambas were fantastic, and the pancakes were mouthwatering. I highly recommend it, though the portions are a bit small for the price.
Breakfast is served until 10:45 am on weekdays, but on weekends, you can enjoy brunch until 3:45 pm. Dining at Balfes is about more than just the food—it’s the whole experience that makes it special. The atmosphere is great for catching up with friends, and their non-alcoholic cocktails are impressive. Sebastian, the bartender, crafted unique drinks for everyone while keeping the vibes fun and welcoming.
The hospitality at Balfes is top-notch. They were fantastic with young children, providing a coloring book and making sure she was happy (This was very unlike other restaurants). Julie C., one of the waitstaff, really stood out with her great service and friendly attitude. The whole team makes sure every visit feels special.
Balfes has a lively vibe, so it can get pretty busy, especially during peak hours. It’s a good idea to book a table online or give them a call to make sure you get a spot.
Alma: Dublin’s Argentine Breakfast Gem
Alma is known for bringing a taste of Argentina to Dublin with its creative menu. This small, family-run café is located in the charming Portobello neighborhood of Dublin, Ireland. Alma is all about using fresh, high-quality ingredients, believing that great food starts with great ingredients. They certainly prove their commitment.
Every dish at Alma is a hit, even something as simple as a poached egg. Alma’s Poached Eggs are like nothing you’ve ever tasted—two perfectly poached eggs served with smashed avocado, garlic portobello mushrooms, feta cheese, and salsa criolla on organic sourdough. It’s piled high like a mini volcano, whereby the feta replaces the lava (and they do not cheap out on the feta, I’m happy to report).
Of course, Alma is also famous for its pancakes, vegan hummus toast, and the Choripan Argento—a delicious Argentinian-style sausage on sourdough. So there will undoubtedly be lots of things for you to enjoy.
If you want to go all out, try Alma’s dulce de leche pancakes. These buttermilk pancakes are topped with dulce de leche, brandy and orange mascarpone, seasonal fruits, orange zest, mint, and toasted almonds. Another favorite is the Choripan Argento, and their Sweet Potato & Harissa Eggs are also highly recommended.
The hospitality at Alma is fantastic. When I visited on a Saturday, the ladies couldn’t find an indoor table for us, but they were super accommodating and set us up outside with blankets and a seat by the heater. Thanks to them, we got to enjoy our breakfast outdoors, even in the chilly weather.
Since Alma is super popular, you might have to wait for a table if you’re in a big group, but as a solo diner, I got seated without any trouble.
Pro-tip: If you catch a sunny day, grab a spot outside and enjoy the warm rays—it’s the best!
A Pro tip 2: Alma is one of the more popular breakfast spots in Dublin and one of the few where you can reserve a seat online—so be sure to book ahead!
So, when are you planning to visit Alma? Whether you live nearby or are just passing through, Alma’s mix of Argentine flavors, fresh ingredients, and friendly vibes make it a must-visit for breakfast or brunch.
Bibi’s: Cozy Brunch with a Homely Touch
Bibi’s is hands down one of the best brunch spots in Dublin, and it’s easily the coziest, most homely café around. It’s a much-loved neighborhood spot in Dublin 8 where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a cozy breakfast.
This café is warm and inviting and it blends Irish charm with Mediterranean flavors for a unique and tasty experience. The rustic decor gives off such a relaxed vibe that you feel right at home as soon as you walk in.
Bibi’s menu may be small, but it’s mighty—every dish is thoughtfully prepared and full of flavor. Their goal is simple: to make people happy with home-cooked, delicious food made from fresh, high-quality ingredients.
For me, Bibi’s is my happy place. I’ve enjoyed their famous Squash Eggs many times—a delicious dish with fresh poached eggs and sweet butternut squash. Pair it with a great cup of coffee or freshly squeezed juice, and you’ve got one of the best breakfasts in Dublin.
Today, I tried the sourdough toast with hummus, beets, and greens. It’s honestly one of the best things I’ve ever eaten, with a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Their toasties are a must-try, served on hot, crispy bread and filled with tasty ingredients like cheese, ham, or bacon—perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a snack. If you have a sweet tooth, Bibi’s also bakes delicious cakes that go perfectly with their coffee. They also offer some great sandwiches and pastries, and the coffee is always a pleasure.
Yes- the food is a couple more euros more than what you’d typically pay in the area, but the food is far superior to what you’d typically get in the area also, so worth every cent.
The only downside is the service. The staff are fantastic— I’ve been here loads of times and they’re always friendly and helpful—but service can be a bit slow sometimes. With the café being small, it can get a bit disorganized when it’s busy, and some people have complained about the wait time and efficiency, but honestly, the food and cozy vibes more than make up for it. A little wait is no big deal when the experience is this good, right?
Brother Hubbard: Middle Eastern Flavor
Whenever I’m craving Middle Eastern flavors, Brother Hubbard is my go-to spot. With four locations around Dublin, you’re never far from a unique and delicious breakfast. Their goal is to serve simple, fresh food and drinks made with a lot of love and care, resulting in a menu that’s bursting with bold, exciting flavors.
From the popular “The Frenchie,” a fun twist on French toast, to the “Brunchy Eggs’, every dish at Brother Hubbard is a flavor-packed adventure. Nothing here is boring!
For one of the best breakfasts in Dublin, opt for their renowned Irish oat porridge — a hearty blend of porridge oats, mixed nuts, seeds, berries, and honey. For those craving something savoury, the Brunchy Eggs is a flavourful dish that has poached eggs and lemony, garlicky butter beans with whipped ricotta, all served with sourdough toast.
If you’re looking for one of the best breakfasts in Dublin, try their famous Irish oat porridge, a hearty blend of oats, mixed nuts, seeds, berries, and honey. For something savory, go for the “Brunchy Eggs,” featuring poached eggs, lemony, garlicky butter beans, whipped ricotta, and sourdough toast.
For those wanting something meatier, they have a lamb shawarma plate and a delicious “Porchetta” with slow-roasted, marinated pork and tomato. You’ll also find plenty of Irish classics with a Middle Eastern twist, including great vegetarian options like smoked eggplant, hummus, fried halloumi, and wraps. Even the kids’ menu has vegetarian choices.
Don’t leave without trying one of their brownies or babkas. They also offer a variety of amazing baked goods, including vegan options that are absolutely divine. Plus, their restaurants are open seven days a week for breakfast and brunch, and you can even book your table online.
Not only was the cuisine top-notch, but the atmosphere of the place added so much to our experience. The atmosphere at Brother Hubbard adds to the experience. It’s spacious and beautifully decorated, making it the perfect spot for a memorable meal. The staff is incredibly friendly and attentive, making you feel welcome and well taken care of. And the prices are surprisingly reasonable, especially given the location in the heart of the city’s touristy areas.
The only minor downside is the location of the bathrooms—they’re quite a distance from the dining area. Also, keep in mind that the menu varies by location; some spots offer spacious sit-in areas, while others are more suited for takeaway. You can find all the details on their website.
Joy of Chá: Temple Bar’s Cozy Tea Haven
Being a Bangladeshi, Chá (tea) has always been my top favorite and Joy of Chá is Dublin’s little hidden treasure for me. it’s definitely worth a visit!
Tucked away in Temple Bar, this cozy tea shop has been whipping up some of the best breakfasts in the city since 2006. Locals and tourists love it, and it’s easy to see why. The food is fantastic, and the prices won’t make your wallet cry. Everything here is made with love and a sprinkle of magic, from homemade quiches to cheesy tomato croissants.
But the real star? The tea. Unlike other places that serve little tea bags, Joy of Chá uses only loose-leaf tea, bursting with flavor. They’ve got herbal teas too, perfect for when you want to feel healthy and fancy at the same time.
The menu is packed with amazing options. Want a full Irish breakfast? They’ve got it. Craving something American like pancakes with syrup, eggs, and bacon? They’ve got that too. There’s also a salmon and egg bagel, hearty breakfast nachos, and the ever-popular egg and avo toast. And yes, they do coffee, but trust me, it’s all better with a pot of their amazing tea. And here’s the kicker—their Irish breakfast is just €9.50!
Aside from tasty dishes and drinks, Joy of Chá offers a warm, artistic atmosphere with beautiful Spanish decor, creating a relaxing vibe. The owner and chef is amazingly talented, and the friendly, knowledgeable staff make you feel right at home. During my stay in Dublin, Joy of Chá became my go-to breakfast spot.
Joy of Chá is open every day from 9 am to 9:30 pm, and while you’re there, you can stock up on loose tea leaves. It’s usually possible to walk in and find a table, but you might have to wait during peak times since it’s a small place. Once inside, you’ll notice the mouthwatering cakes—go ahead, treat yourself!
If you’re in the Temple Bar area and looking for a special place to eat or drink, don’t miss out on Joy of Chá. With its great location near landmarks like St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Christ Church Cathedral, plus exceptional food and service, this bohemian-style café is a must-visit! Even if you have to wait for a table, trust me, it’s worth it!
Keogh’s Cafe: Classic Breakfasts
Keogh’s is another fantastic all-day breakfast spot in Dublin, serving up delicious food for over 28 years. This family-run café is all about homely, wholesome goodness, which is probably why there’s always a queue to get in!
The breakfast menu might be small, but it packs a punch. You can go big with a traditional Irish breakfast or keep it light with a mini version. Vegetarians, don’t worry—they’ve got a tasty option for you too.
Keogh’s is famous for its scones, muffins, and breakfast delights. If you’re nearby, you can drop in, grab a coffee and a pastry to go or settle in for a cozy breakfast. The pastries are irresistible—imagine warm, fresh muffins, homemade scones, and buttery croissants. Pair one with a steaming cup of coffee, and you’re all set for the day!
It’s an “order at the counter, get it delivered to your table” kind of place, and the staff’s warm hospitality makes sure everyone feels right at home. I was tempted by all the delicious-looking goodies at the counter! We had a latte and shared a ham and cheese croissant that was warm and gooey—just perfect. Despite the line out the door at 9:00 AM on a Sunday, it moved quickly, thanks to Catherine, who worked the queue and registered like a pro.
The food does take a bit of time to come out, probably because of the small kitchen and the constant turnover. But trust me, the wait is worth it. The breakfast was hearty, and the latte was yummy! I didn’t try the sweet baked goods, but if they’re anything like the bread that came with my meal, they must be amazing.
Keogh’s is open every day until 6 PM and serves breakfast all day long. They stick to the breakfast classics—no brunch here. You’ll find three types of Irish fry (full, mini, veggie), an omelet, granola, porridge, breakfast bap, and good old eggs on toast. They don’t close at 3 PM like some other places, so you can even enjoy a hearty fry after your 9-to-5!
The only downside? The service can be a bit slow and disorganized, but the food more than makes up for it. Everyone at Keogh’s is committed to delivering good food, freshly made from their kitchen every day. If you love a cozy breakfast with a side of warm hospitality, Keogh’s is the place to be!
The Pepper Pot Cafe: Sweet Mall Place
The Pepper Pot is tucked away in the charming courtyard of the Powerscourt Centre, which is pretty much like having a café inside a fancy old mansion. Not what you’d expect, right? But that’s part of its magic! the unique location gives it a special character that keeps people coming back.
Perched on the second floor of what used to be the city home of the Powerscourt family, The Pepper Pot overlooks a bustling courtyard. It’s a perfect spot to people-watch while enjoying a delicious meal. The Pepper Pot has been serving up some of the best soft scrambled eggs for years. Seriously, people keep coming back just for those eggs—they’re that good!
Even though The Pepper Pot is a counter-service cafe where you order before sitting down, don’t let that fool you. The staff are super friendly and quick, so you won’t be waiting long for your food, even when it’s busy. The line for a table moves fast, and the lively atrium vibe adds to the whole experience.
We popped in for a quick breakfast without a reservation and were pleasantly surprised. At first, I was a bit disappointed because the menu seemed pretty simple—mostly scrambled eggs on toast with some add-ons. But I went for the eggs with mushrooms and halloumi, and wow, was I glad I did! The scrambled eggs were one of the best I’ve ever had—creamy, moist, and with just the right amount of herbs. The mushrooms had a rich, buttery garlic flavor, and the halloumi was perfectly cooked—soft, not rubbery. Plus, I loved their adorable cups and teapots!
If you’re looking for something a little different, you have to try their famous Pear and Bacon Sambo. It’s a delicious combo of sweet and savory, served on freshly baked, crusty white bread. Or, if you’re in the mood for something lighter, grab one of their freshly baked goodies with a cup of coffee.
And speaking of treats, their cakes are absolutely amazing. Whether you’re in the mood for an all-day breakfast, a tasty treat, a sandwich, a salad, or a seasonal tart, The Pepper Pot has got you covered. It’s a fantastic spot to take a break while shopping on Grafton Street, but honestly, it’s worth the trip even if you’re coming from a little farther away. Enjoy a cup of coffee, do some people-watching, and savor the cozy, welcoming vibe of this lovely cafe!
And with The Pepper Pot Café, our list concludes. Let me know which one you think would be perfect for your next visit. Goodbye.
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