Once known solely as a picturesque seaside escape north of Dublin, Malahide has evolved into a dynamic culinary destination. Its combination of fresh local seafood, cosmopolitan flavours, and charming village ambiance makes it a food lover’s dream.
In 2024, The Irish Times ranked Malahide among the top 10 culinary villages in Ireland, thanks to its growing number of innovative chefs and consistently high-rated restaurants. Whether you’re after a Michelin-recommended fine dining experience or a casual lunch with a sea view, Malahide offers something for every palate and price range.
As someone who’s dined in Malahide more times than I can count—on lazy Sunday lunches, anniversary dinners, and quick coffee stops—I can confidently say the village punches well above its weight when it comes to food quality, ambiance, and variety.
📊 Malahide Dining Snapshot (2025)
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| 🍽️ Number of restaurants & cafés | Over 50+ (within walking distance of town center) |
| 🐟 Most popular cuisines | Seafood, Irish, Italian, Asian fusion |
| 🌿 Dietary-friendly options | Vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free widely available |
| 👨🍳 Top rated on TripAdvisor | Bon Appetit, The Greedy Goose, Déjà Vu |
🍽️ Top Restaurants in Malahide (Tried & Trusted)
Here’s a curated list of the best restaurants in Malahide, combining personal experience, verified online reviews, and local foodie feedback.
1. Bon Appetit
📍 9 James Terrace, Malahide
⭐ Michelin Guide Recommended
💰 Fine dining | Tasting menus available
Overview:
Bon Appetit is arguably Malahide’s culinary crown jewel. Housed in a Georgian townhouse overlooking the marina, it features modern European cuisine with a twist. Expect seasonal Irish ingredients presented with Michelin-level artistry, minus the formality.
My Experience:
I visited for their five-course tasting menu with wine pairing. Every course—from the smoked cod with celeriac to the dark chocolate crémeux—was exquisitely balanced. Service was polished but warm.
Why Go:
- For special occasions or foodie experiences
- Michelin-recommended without Michelin-star prices
- Intimate, elegant setting
2. The Greedy Goose
📍 6 Townyard Lane, Malahide
🍷 Modern Irish & European
💰 Mid-range, family-friendly
Overview:
A vibrant, contemporary spot offering hearty portions and creative dishes in a relaxed setting. Dishes are well-executed and made with local produce.
Top Picks:
- Duck breast with black pudding hash
- Crab linguine
- Sticky toffee pudding
Why Locals Love It:
- Casual atmosphere but elevated food
- Great for date nights or family dinners
- Excellent wine list
3. Déjà Vu
📍 New Street, Malahide
🥖 French Bistro Style
💰 Mid-range, cosy setting
Overview:
A hidden gem for those who love classic French cooking with an Irish twist. Run by a French-Irish couple, this bistro is known for authentic French sauces, quality meats, and perfectly cooked fish.
What Stood Out:
- The beef bourguignon was slow-cooked perfection
- Their onion soup was the best I’ve had outside of Paris
- House wine was excellent value
4. Scotch Bonnet Kitchen & Bar
📍 Main Street, Malahide
🌍 Global Fusion | Casual Vibes
💰 Affordable | Family-friendly
Overview:
Known for its creative street food-inspired dishes, Scotch Bonnet is a vibrant venue with something for everyone. They serve everything from spicy Korean wings to gourmet burgers and curries.
Top Picks:
- Korean BBQ Chicken Burger
- Buttermilk Fried Chicken Bao
- Vegan Buddha Bowl
Why Go:
- Something for everyone
- Kids menu and veggie options
- Trendy cocktails and casual atmosphere
5. Giovannis
📍 Ross’s Lane, Malahide
🍝 Classic Italian
💰 Affordable | Cozy and friendly
Overview:
An authentic Italian trattoria, Giovanni’s offers rustic dishes made with passion. Fresh pasta, wood-fired pizza, and welcoming hospitality make it a go-to for comfort food.
My Favourite Dish:
Their truffle mushroom risotto was creamy, earthy, and deeply satisfying.
👉 No website; call for reservations: +353 1 845 5455
🐟 Seafood Special Mentions
Being a coastal town, Malahide does seafood exceptionally well.
🦞 Gibney’s Seafood Bar (Inside the famous Gibney’s Pub)
- Local oysters, fish & chips, seafood platters
- Casual setting, live music often playing
🐠 Seabank Bistro
- Overlooking the estuary
- Renowned for their seafood chowder and lemon sole
☕ Best Cafés & Casual Bites
For a light lunch or coffee with a view, try:
- Silks Cafe – Great brunch and smoothie bowls
- Coastal Coffee – Hidden gem for flat whites and baked goods
- Cafe Provence – French-inspired brunch and salads
💡 Helpful Tips for Dining in Malahide
- 🕐 Book ahead for dinner—especially weekends. Tables at Bon Appetit, Greedy Goose, and Déjà Vu often fill a week in advance.
- 🥗 Dietary options: Most restaurants cater to vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free needs—just ask in advance.
- 🌅 Go for sunset dining: Many restaurants have views of the marina or estuary—sunset seats are worth chasing.
- 🚗 Parking: There’s street parking and car parks near the marina and New Street. Free after 6 p.m.
❓ FAQs About Dining in Malahide
Is Malahide expensive to dine in?
You’ll find a full range—from €12 burgers to €90 tasting menus. Mid-range is common.
Can I walk to all the restaurants?
Yes, Malahide is compact and highly walkable. Most spots are within a 10-minute stroll of the marina or DART station.
Do restaurants cater for kids?
Absolutely. Most venues (Greedy Goose, Scotch Bonnet, Giovannis) have children’s menus or family-friendly setups.
Are there vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes—Scotch Bonnet, Cafe Provence, and Déjà Vu all offer plant-based menus.
Final Thoughts: A Village for Every Appetite
Malahide is more than a coastal day trip—it’s a culinary destination in its own right. Whether you’re indulging in high-end fine dining, casual street eats, or comforting bowls of risotto, the town offers an unforgettable experience for food lovers.
As someone who’s tasted most of Malahide’s flavours first-hand, I truly believe its restaurant scene reflects Ireland’s modern food culture: rooted in local ingredients, inspired by global trends, and delivered with heart.
Got a favourite Malahide dish or a hidden gem to share? Have questions about where to eat on a weekend trip? Drop your thoughts below or send a message—I’d love to hear your foodie picks! 🍴
Hi, I’m Tanvir, the founder and author of Explore Ireland Now. With a deep love for Ireland and its rich culture, history, and landscapes, I created this site to share everything that makes this beautiful country worth exploring. Whether you’re a local looking for hidden gems or a traveler planning your next adventure, I provide insightful guides, tips, and recommendations to help you experience Ireland to the fullest.
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