Dublin is overrun with faux Italian restaurants, some of which serve absolutely delicious but non-traditional versions of Italian classics. If you’re looking for truly home-style, home-cooked Italian food in Dublin – just like mama used to make - visit Terra Madre in the city centre.
The restaurant is located just off the main drag, along the Quays and just steps from O’Connell Street. It is well hidden (I walked by it twice while actively searching for it!) on Bachelor’s Walk and the interior is reminiscent of an old style Italian home. The two guys running it are experts at what they do and are happy to offer their advice and recommendations.
I ate with an Italian friend who assured me the cooking is as authentic as we’re likely to find in Dublin, right down to the olive oil used to garnish the delicious sourdough bread. I ordered a medley of bruschettas with various toppings, including a rarely seen chive sprout and mouth-watering prosciutto cheese. As a main, I went for the ravioli del plin, which was honestly the best I’ve ever had – and I’ve eaten it in Italy! The portion sizes were small, but by the end of the meal I was completely full and satisfied.
Terra Madre really is Dublin’s hidden Italian gem!
Find your way with 112 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Blackbird" in Dublin is a dimly lit, dive bar delight. Whenever I'm in the area, I always try to stop here for a drink - it's always 5 o'clock somewhere!
by
"Music Under the Bridges" allows you to discover Dublin and its river Liffey from the water by kayaking and listening to music!
by
"Farmleigh House" in Dublin was built in the late 18th century and was home to the Guinness family. It's accessible from Phoenix Park. Such a discovery!
by
The "Irish Film Institute" in Dublin looks strange - the good kind. Come discover Irish film here. Personally, I love the beer garden out back...
by
"Admiral" is a true yacht spot in the center of Dublin, a nautical-themed restaurant with delicious Eastern European and Russian dishes!
by
"Killiney Hill Park" is one of the best destinations you could pick when looking for a not-so-tiring hike in Dublin, just 20 minutes outside the city!
by
"Kalabasa Market" in Dublin just has it all: it's a restaurant, a market for exotic stuff, a cocktail bar... it even offers live music experiences!
by
"Memorial to Human Rights Defenders" by studio Grafton Architects is a hidden gem of an art piece in Dublin, a true must-see for art lovers...
by
"Knead Pizza & Bottle Shop" in Dublin is a super cool pizza/beer place. Delicious pizza, effortless & cozy vibe, a wide selection of craft beers...
by
"Mish Mash" is a tiny cafe in Dublin that feels like a piece of home. I love their selection of soups, the fantastic coffee, and the heavenly cakes...
by
You might've heard exaggerations like 'this is the best burger in town.' But "Dash Burger" is different. I wouldn't mind not eating anything else ever again.
by
"Pipers Corner" in Dublin was opened because the owner, Seán Potts, an uilleann piper, was tired of how commercial the Temple Bar area had become...
by
112 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 112 Insider Tips