Dublin has no shortage of coffee shops, honestly, it feels like there are at least two on every street. That’s why I’m only including the ones I’ve actually tried. As I discover more, I’ll keep updating this list of my top five.
Just to be clear, I’m judging purely by the taste of the coffee, not by the ambience, pastries, or how instagrammable the place is. If you’re a coffee lover or like me, a bit of a newbie trying to learn, hopefully this will help you get started exploring Dublin’s coffee scene.
These top five aren’t ranked in any particular order, they’re simply all my favourites.
1) Nick’s Coffee, Ranelagh
The coffee I had here was Sao Silvestre Natural Single Origin. Fruity acidity, medium roast, with just a mild hint of sourness from the roasting. If you’re having it with milk, the sourness balances out nicely. Overall, it’s smooth and fruity. Their sweet espresso is also quite popular, though not really my cup of tea.
I still remember when I used to work in Ranelagh, every morning I’d grab a flat white from Nick’s and a chocolate croissant from SuperValu on the way to work. Nick’s is takeaway only. There’s a little bench out front and if that’s full, you can just wander across Ranelagh village where there are a few more benches to sit with your cup.
2) 3fe, Ranelagh
Founded by Colin Harmon, who in many ways helped shape Dublin’s coffee scene. If my research is right, he was one of the first to start an online coffee roastery in Ireland. He roasts his own beans, which means the quality and character of the coffee are very much in his control. I used to be a regular at the Ranelagh branch, especially during my weight loss phase after a run, I’d always stop in for a coffee as a kind of “fuel”.
It’s been a while since I last went, so I’m not sure what their current house beans are, but honestly it’s 3fe, and Colin never disappoints.
3) Proper Order, Smithfield
This one might just be my personal favourite. They use Dak Roasters, whose beans are phenomenal. The one I tried was Juniper Colombia medium light roast, with a strong cherry acidity that really stood out. The quality of the beans was outstanding. If you get the chance, try their pour-over, ideally with something sweet on the side. You’ll probably find yourself coming back again and again.
They’ve got seating inside and a bench outside too, but the place can be packed. A couple of times I couldn’t even find a seat.
4) Two Pup
This might surprise some, as Two Pups is better known for its food than its coffee. But honestly, their coffee deserves recognition too.
They use one of my favourite roasters, Farmhand, and the last time I was there, their house beans were Ethiopian. (Brother Hubbard in Ranelagh, my next pick, uses the same roaster.)
The coffee is big, rich, and smooth just perfect. They also serve my favourite oat milk, Roa, which you’ll rarely come across. Don’t miss it if it’s there, because it pairs beautifully with their beans. There’s plenty of seating and the breakfast menu is solid, though the place is always busy. If you’re only after a coffee, I usually grab mine and then walk over to St Patrick’s Cathedral nearby.
5) Brother Hubbard, Ranelagh
Right across from Nick’s in Ranelagh, Brother Hubbard also uses Farmhand beans, just like Two Pups. One thing I appreciate is that their coffee is served at just the right temperature never scalding hot, never lukewarm, always spot on.