Dublin: Walking Food Tour with local chef, 7 stops or more!

Imagine strolling through Dublin’s lively streets, sampling a variety of local dishes, and learning about Irish culture from someone who truly knows the city. That’s exactly what you get with the Walking Food Tour led by a local chef. It’s a guided journey that combines tasty bites with authentic stories, all within a manageable 3-hour window. Perfect for food lovers, curious travelers, or anyone wanting a different way to experience Dublin beyond the usual tourist spots.

What sets this tour apart? First, you’re visiting small Irish businesses away from crowds, which means more genuine flavors and local charm. Second, it’s hosted by Clodagh Shortall, a chef with 13 years of experience who shares her favorite spots with warmth and knowledge. Our favorite features include the variety of sweet and savory dishes and the chance to enjoy a pint of Guinness at a top Dublin pub. A potential downside? The tour isn’t suitable for children under 8, those with food allergies, or wheelchair users, so plan accordingly.

This experience is ideal for foodies eager to taste authentic Dublin, history buffs interested in local stories, or travellers seeking an intimate, small-group experience. If you enjoy discovering a city through its flavors and people, this tour is a wonderful choice.

Key Points

• Authentic local experience: Visits to small Irish businesses off the tourist trail.
• Variety of tastings: At least 7 stops with a mix of sweet, savory, hot, and cold dishes.
• Expert guide: Led by a seasoned Dublin chef sharing insider tips.
• Cultural insights: Learn about Dublin’s history while walking through the city.
• Inclusion of drinks: Enjoy a pint of Guinness and other beverages.
• Small group size: Limited to 10 participants for a more personal experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting at the Thomas Davis memorial statue & fountain on Dame Street, your journey begins in the heart of Dublin’s bustling city center. The meeting point is straightforward—on the road between Starbucks and H&M—making it easy to find and accessible for most travelers.

Once underway, the real fun begins as you visit 7+ venues, each selected for their authenticity and quality. These stops are never on the tourist-packed main streets but rather hidden gems loved by locals and chefs alike. As you navigate the city’s lively streets, your guide, Clodagh Shortall, shares her knowledge of Dublin’s culinary scene and history, making each stop more meaningful.

Stop 1: A Local Bakery or Deli

We loved the way the tour starts with a bite at a small bakery or deli. Expect fresh bread, traditional Irish cheeses, or perhaps a savory pastry. This first taste sets the tone—focusing on real, quality ingredients and family-run businesses. The guide’s insights help you understand how Dublin’s food scene has evolved.

Stop 2: An Irish Pub with a Top Pint of Guinness

One of the tour’s highlights is enjoying a pint of Guinness at one of Dublin’s best pubs. It’s a chance to taste Ireland’s most iconic drink in a setting favored by locals. Expect the staff to be friendly, and the atmosphere lively, whether you’re inside or savoring your drink outside on a sunny day. Several reviews mention how their beer was “the best pint in town,” adding value to this authentic experience.

Stops 3-7: Diverse Food Venues

From traditional Irish dishes to modern tapas-style bites, each of these stops showcases Dublin’s culinary versatility. You might sample sweet treats, such as Irish desserts or pastries, alongside savory dishes like hearty stews or innovative small plates. The guide emphasizes the off-the-beaten-path aspect, so you’ll discover eateries you wouldn’t find alone.

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The Final Stop: A Cozy Coffee Shop or Sweet Spot

Concluding your walk, you might find yourself indulging in a delicious Irish coffee or dessert. This rounded-out experience leaves you with a warm feeling—both from the food and the stories shared along the way.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable Guide: Clodagh Shortall’s 13 years of culinary experience shine through. She’s passionate about Dublin’s food scene and eager to share stories behind each dish and venue. Many reviews highlight her friendly demeanor and depth of local knowledge.

Authentic Focus: Unlike generic food tours, this one emphasizes small Irish businesses that are often overlooked by travelers. This gives you a chance to taste real Dublin and support local entrepreneurs.

Variety and Quality: The 7+ stops ensure a broad sampling. Some reviewers mention that the food was “delicious” and that they appreciated the mix of sweet and savory options, which keeps the experience engaging.

Intimate Atmosphere: With a group limited to 10, you’ll have personalized attention and ample opportunity to ask questions. The small group size also creates a friendly, relaxed vibe.

Cultural and Historical Insights: As you walk, your guide shares stories about Dublin’s past and present, enriching your understanding of the city beyond just the food.

Value for Money: For the price, you receive at least 7 tastings, a drink included, and expert guidance. Considering the quality and authenticity, many guests feel it’s a good value—a memorable experience that combines food, culture, and storytelling.

Practical Details and Tips

Duration & Timing: The tour lasts about 3 hours, with starting times depending on availability. Check ahead to find a slot that fits your schedule.

Meeting Point: Central and easy to reach, the starting point is at the Thomas Davis memorial statue & fountain on Dame Street. It’s near popular spots, making it convenient for most travelers.

What to Bring: Wear comfortable shoes—Dublin’s streets can be cobblestoned and uneven. Dress weather-appropriate, especially if rain is forecast. Arrive hungry to fully enjoy the tastings.

Accessibility & Restrictions: The tour isn’t suitable for children under 8, wheelchair users, or those with certain food allergies, including nut allergies. Keep this in mind when booking.

Reservation & Cancellation: You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance. This flexibility makes planning easier for spontaneous travelers.

The Value Proposition

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Dublin from a local chef’s perspective. It’s perfect for travelers who want more than just sightseeing—they want to taste, see, and learn about Dublin’s food culture in an authentic setting. The focus on small businesses and off-the-beaten-path venues means you’re supporting local entrepreneurs while enjoying delicious, carefully curated dishes.

The small group size ensures an intimate, unrushed experience, fostering friendly conversations and personalized attention. The inclusion of a pint of Guinness adds a fun, iconic touch to the day. This experience delivers a balanced blend of food, culture, and local charm that’s hard to match for the price.

This tour is especially suited for those who appreciate quality over quantity—a relatively short but meaningful walk through Dublin’s culinary heart, perfect for food lovers, culture seekers, or anyone wanting an authentic taste of Ireland’s capital.

FAQs

How many stops are included in the tour?
You’ll visit at least 7 venues, each offering a different food or drink experience.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour isn’t recommended for children under 8 years, so consider this when booking for family groups.

Can I join if I have food allergies?
This tour isn’t suitable for people with food or nut allergies, so check with the provider if you have specific dietary needs.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Thomas Davis memorial statue & fountain on Dame Street and ends back at the same meeting point.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, given the walking nature and possibly uneven streets.

What’s included in the price?
You get food tastings at 7+ venues, drinks including the best pint of Guinness, and the guidance of an expert local chef.

How do I reserve a spot?
You can book now, pay later, and cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, making it flexible for your plans.

For anyone curious about authentic Irish flavors and local Dublin stories, this walking food tour ticks all the boxes. It’s a chance to explore hidden corners of the city while tasting its best-kept culinary secrets. The guide’s expertise and the focus on small businesses give it a genuine, heartfelt touch that many travelers find memorable.

Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just interested in experiencing Dublin through its food scene, this tour offers a delightful, engaging way to spend an afternoon. It’s a smart investment for those who want to combine cultural insight with delicious bites, all in a friendly, relaxed environment.

In short, if you value authentic experiences, quality food, and insightful guides, this tour is well worth considering during your Dublin trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: