Hire Private Dining Rooms in Dublin

Hire Private Dining Rooms in Dublin
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Dublin

A Guide to Hosting Private Dining in Dublin

The birthplace of the famous Guinness beer, Dublin's pub scene is a quiet guarantee that the food in the Irish capital will be bold and full of flavour.

From timeless favourites like shepherd's pie and cod to more modern restaurants that put a fresh spin on local ingredients, Dublin's food is comforting, delicious and, no matter where you're from in the world, homely.

Whether you're in the mood for a traditional bowl of seafood chowder or an adventurous taste of Dublin's cutting-edge culinary creations, there's something to suit every palate.

Bonus reading: Dublin’s famous folklore is almost as interesting as its food scene! Read more about Dublin’s local legends here.

But the real charm of Dublin's food scene lies in its sense of community. It's not just about the food — it's about the experience of sharing it. Locals and visitors gather in lively markets, bustling cafes, and welcoming restaurants, all eager to connect over a great meal. 

When it comes to special occasions, Dublin doesn't disappoint. The city offers a range of unique and intimate private dining venues for those who want to enjoy a private dinner. 

Whether it's a hidden dining room in a historic building or a modern space with stunning city views, Dublin's private dining options add an extra touch of magic to any meal. So why wait? Let's explore everything there is to know about Dublin's private dining scene.

P.S.: Before planning your private dining event, why not work up an appetite with these unique corporate group activities in Dublin?

1) Get a Taste of the Private Dining Venues in Dublin

The jolly Irish spirit is apparent in the variety of private dining venues in Dublin. Whether you’re hosting a grand celebration or a small get-together, the private dining spaces here are as varied as the menu itself! Here’s a quick taste of what you can expect:

1. Garden restaurants: If you like being outside, Dublin's garden restaurants are great for private dining. They're perfect for spring and summer events, with green space, flowers, and open-air seating. 

You can host a brunch, team dinner, or a special celebration in a garden restaurant, which offers good food and a great ambience away from the city's usual hustle and bustle.

2. Rooftop terraces: Dublin's rooftop terraces are a fantastic choice if you want to impress with a stunning view. These private dining venues combine modern design with panoramic city views, making them ideal for chic evening events. 

Whether it's a sunset cocktail party or a sophisticated dinner under the stars, a rooftop terrace provides an incredible backdrop for your private dining experience.

3. Historic venues: Dublin's rich history is reflected in its stunning private dining venues in magnificent historic buildings. Think grand Georgian houses, old libraries, or converted churches, where the architecture alone adds a touch of elegance to any event. 

These private dinner party venues are perfect for formal dinners, corporate events, or any occasion where you want to make a lasting impression with a sense of tradition and grandeur.

4. Underground vaults: For something truly unique, consider holding your event in one of Dublin's underground vaults. These venues offer a mysterious and intimate atmosphere with exposed brick walls, low ceilings, and cosy candle-lit settings. Ideal for small gatherings or themed events, an underground vault adds an element of intrigue to your private dining experience.

5. Seaside spaces: The city's proximity to the coast also means you can find private dining venues with beautiful sea views. These seaside venues are ideal for those looking for an airy, relaxed atmosphere with the added beauty of an ocean view. Perfect for daytime events or sunset dinners, a seaside venue offers a picturesque setting that's hard to beat.

2) The Top Areas in Dublin for Private Dinners

Dublin may not be the biggest city in the world, but it more than makes up for it with its quaint neighbourhoods. The city is always buzzing with energy and with the locals always up for a good time, you can rest assured that the Irish capital's neighbourhoods know how to serve a good time. Here are some of Dublin's top areas for private dinners.

1. Temple Bar: Known for its lively atmosphere, Temple Bar is the perfect place to add some Dublin charm to your private dinner. Tucked away behind the area's bustling streets are hidden restaurants with private rooms that will transport you to another world. 

Here, traditional Irish fare meets gourmet flavours, making them ideal for an intimate gathering with the city's energy buzzing outside.

2. Ballsbridge: If you're looking for sophistication, Ballsbridge is the place to be. This upmarket neighbourhood is known for its elegant Victorian architecture and tree-lined streets. Fine dining takes centre stage here, whether in a luxurious hotel or a chic restaurant. Expect a sophisticated atmosphere that will add a touch of class to your private dining room, perfect for those who appreciate the finer things in life.

3. Ranelagh: Tucked away just outside the city centre, Ranelagh is Dublin's trendy village vibe wrapped up in a sophisticated package. Known for its exciting food scene, the area offers a range of chic bistros and cosy eateries perfect for a private dinner. 

Whether you're looking for a relaxed evening with a gourmet twist or a stylish setting with a neighbourhood feel, Ranelagh offers intimate private dinner party venues that are both relaxed and sophisticated. It's where village charm meets city flair, making it an excellent choice for an exceptional dining experience.

4. Grand Canal Dock: If stunning views are on your wish list, Grand Canal Dock is the perfect place. This area offers sleek, modern private dining rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the water. Dine as the city lights dance across the canal, creating a magical backdrop for an unforgettable evening.

5. Dublin 2: For a private dining experience steeped in history, Dublin 2 is hard to beat. This area blends old-world charm with modern flair, with historic buildings transformed into stylish private dining venues. 

Every meal here feels like a journey back in time, where tradition meets contemporary elegance in a setting that tells a story with every bite.

3) Planning the Cost for a Private Dinner Party in Dublin

If you think private event restaurants cost an arm and a leg, we're here to help you dispel that notion! The good news is Dublin has a private dining venue to suit almost any budget — all it takes is a little careful planning and you can have the event of your dreams while staying within your budget.

Here's a little breakdown of the cost of private dining in Dublin to help you get started.

  • Affordable private dining: Smaller venues such as local cafes or restaurants with private rooms typically charge between €25 and €60 per person. These venues offer a simple and cosy atmosphere, perfect for relaxed gatherings.
  • Mid-range dinner party venues: For a little more variety and style, mid-range restaurants or boutique hotel rooms typically cost between €60 and €120 per person. These venues offer a balanced mix of menu options and ambience, suitable for medium-sized events.
  • Luxury private dining: High-end venues such as gourmet restaurants with private rooms, rooftop terraces or elegant hotel ballrooms typically cost over €120 per person. These venues offer a premium experience with world-class cuisine, service, and surroundings.

Other costs to keep in mind:

  • Meal prices: The cost of meals varies according to the type of cuisine and the reputation of the venue. A meal in a mid-range restaurant could cost between €20 and €50 per person, while a meal in a fine dining establishment could cost between €80 and €150 or more per person.
  • Service charge: In Dublin, a service charge of around 10-15% is often added to restaurant bills. This usually covers the gratuity, so additional tipping is unnecessary unless the service is exceptional.
  • Drinks packages: Expect to pay between €10 and €25 per person for non-alcoholic drinks. Alcoholic beverage packages, including wine, beer, and cocktails, usually cost between €30 and €80 per person, depending on the selection.
  • Additional services: Costs can vary if you're considering extras such as event customisation or entertainment. Basic services can start at around €100, but more elaborate options can run into several hundred euros, depending on the size and detail of your event.
  • Transport: Transport costs can vary depending on your arrangements. Hiring a private shuttle can cost between €200 and €500, while luxury car services will be more expensive. However, Dublin's public transport system is a reliable and cost-effective option.
  • Personalisation and entertainment: Adding elements such as bespoke menus, themed decor or live entertainment can add value to your event but will increase costs. For example, hiring a live band or DJ can cost between €500 and €2,000, and prices for personalised decorations will vary depending on the complexity of the design.

4) The Variety of Cuisines You Can Offer at Your Private Dinner Party

Irish food is great, but variety is the spice of life. So here's a selection of the cuisines you can add to your private dinner party.

  1. Irish cuisine: A dinner party in Ireland must pay homage to Dublin's rich culinary roots. Serve a classic Irish dish such as slow-cooked beef and Guinness stew, a staple in many Dublin homes, or perhaps some fresh Dublin Bay prawns for a taste of the sea. These dishes highlight local ingredients and connect your guests to the city's historic food culture.
  2. Mediterranean delights: Dublin's diverse food scene is heavily influenced by Mediterranean flavours, thanks to its thriving Italian and Spanish communities. Incorporate these influences into your menu with a selection of antipasti featuring local Irish cheeses paired with Italian cured meats, or serve a savoury paella, a dish that has found a welcome home in many of Dublin's top restaurants.
  3. Asian flavours: Dublin's culinary community has also embraced Asian cuisine with open arms. The city's bustling neighbourhoods, such as Capel Street, are home to some of Ireland's best Asian restaurants. Bring a taste of this booming area to your dinner party by offering sushi rolls made with the freshest Atlantic salmon or a spicy Thai green curry that combines Dublin's love of fresh ingredients with bold, exotic flavours.
  4. Middle Eastern food: Dublin's international food markets showcase the city's appreciation of Middle Eastern cuisine. You can offer a mezze platter with a Dublin twist, using locally sourced vegetables in dishes such as baba ganoush and hummus, alongside falafel made from Irish-grown chickpeas. This blend of flavours shows how Dublin's multicultural community enriches its culinary offerings.
  5. Sweet treats: End the evening on a sweet note with a dessert that reflects Dublin's love of indulgence. Consider serving Bailey's cheesecake or sourcing delicate French pastries from one of Dublin's renowned patisseries to give your guests a final taste of the city's culinary sophistication.

Wrapping Up

That’s it for our guide to private dining in Dublin. This event will be fun to plan and if you need any help along the way, just get in touch with our local team. They’re the experts in Dublin and will help you find the best private dining venues to help make your vision a reality!

A Guide to Hosting Private Dining in Dublin
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FAQ about Dublin Private Dining Rooms

What time do Dubliners usually schedule dinner events?

In Dublin, dinner events start a little later than you might expect, often around 7:30 or 8:00 pm. Dubliners enjoy a leisurely evening, so these gatherings tend to start at a more relaxed pace, allowing everyone to unwind after the day. Later times also give locals the opportunity to enjoy a pre-dinner pint or two in one of the city's cosy pubs before heading off to the event.

Is it challenging to cater to a vegan/vegetarian crowd?

Catering for a vegan or vegetarian audience in Dublin is easier than ever! The city has seen a surge in plant-based dining options, with many restaurants and caterers offering creative and delicious vegan and vegetarian dishes.

Dublin's culinary scene has embraced the plant-based trend with open arms, from hearty Irish root vegetable stews to innovative takes on classic comfort foods. Whether you're planning a large event or an intimate dinner party, you'll find plenty of options to cater for vegan and vegetarian tastes and ensure everyone leaves satisfied and impressed. So, no, it's not difficult at all — in fact, it's deliciously easy!

What time do restaurants typically close in Dublin?

Dublin restaurants generally close around 10 PM or 11 PM, although this can vary depending on the day of the week and the type of restaurant. At weekends some places may stay open a little later, especially in the bustling city centre where the nightlife is active. It's always a good idea to check the timings with your event venue before you start.

What is the tipping etiquette for private dining events?

In Dublin, tipping for private dining generally follows the same etiquette as regular dining out. Although it's not compulsory, it's appreciated as a gesture of gratitude for good service. A tip of 10-15% of the total bill is customary if the service has been exceptional.

Some venues may include a service charge in the bill, especially for larger groups, so it's always a good idea to check the bill before adding a tip. If a service charge is included, additional gratuity is not expected but may be offered if you feel the service was exceptional.

Overall, tipping is seen as a nice way of acknowledging the efforts of the staff, especially at a private event where the service is often more personalised.

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