A guide to local favorites on Camden Street Dublin
This stretch is close to the city center, but the surrounding residential areas give this boulevard a strong community feel. Although it’s not among the most picturesque neighborhoods, it is one of the most creative. Walk from Aungier Street, as it becomes Wexford Street and then Camden Street, right up to Portobello Bridge (officially called La Touche Bridge) and you’ll pass an eclectic mix of pubs, cafes, restaurants, food shops, laundries, charity shops and antique shops, with everything from high-end restaurants to rundown fast-food joints. Pubs on the Camden Street end are packed to capacity on weekend nights, but on a quiet afternoon or evening, these are some of the favorite local stops along the way.
Meet your local
Yvonne grew up in and went to university in Dublin, and although she regularly travels the world on assignment, she is always proud to return home.
YvGordon yvonne.gordonWant to get in touch? Email bytheway@washpost.com
Where I live:
Near the sea in south Dublin. The sea is never the same color two days in a row, but the views of the water are always calming.
Best way to get around the city:
The city center is small enough to walk, while the DART train, Luas tram line or Dublin Bus routes will get you out of the city (get a Leap Card to use all three). Dublin Bikes is the bike-sharing system, but cycling in Dublin can be unnerving because you share lanes with traffic.
Don’t leave without having:
Weekend brunch. Dublin cafes do this particularly well, and you’ll get lots of inspiration for avocado dishes and healthy juices.
But the local favorite is really:
A full Irish breakfast with black and white pudding, baked beans, toast and pots of tea.
If I moved, I’d most miss:
The sea. There are some great views along the DART line south of the city, and even beaches within 10 minutes of the city center. Even right in the city center, you hear seagulls.
Camden Street
The Lucky Duck
It was lying derelict for many years, but this public house from 1837 has been sensitively restored with an old-time feel, and the traditional snug (a small, private area) at the front is full of character. Stay downstairs for in-house cocktails like Cobblestone punch; head upstairs for food.
The Lucky Duck, Aungier Street, Dublin 2, Ireland
Whelans
This is one of Dublin’s favorite live-music and late-night spots with all genres from county and folk to dance, indie and rock, plus club nights, silent discos and singer-songwriter nights. You might find a free gig in the front bar, too.
Whelan’s, Wexford Street, Portobello, Dublin, Ireland
Listons Food Store
A foodie’s paradise with shelves packed with produce from local and independent producers. Meats and a vast range of cheeses are a specialty of the deli counter, with tasty take-away soup, sandwiches and salads.
Listons Food Store, Saint Kevin’s, Dublin 2, Ireland
The Last Bookshop
A secondhand bookstore oozing with character and a great collection of titles from Irish writers in genres including art, history, literature and fiction. Look out for Bertie the dog, who sometimes keeps watch in the doorway.
The Last Bookshop, 61 Lower Camden St. Dublin 2
Brother Hubbard South
A bright neighborhood cafe just off Camden Street with a creative menu and jazzy tunes. Check out the crispy halloumi sandwich on Georgian bread, weekend avocado specials or baked treats like cinnamon and walnut scrolls, which sell out early.
Brother Hubbard South, 46 Harrington St. Dublin 8
Wall and Keogh teahouse
Green, black, maté, herbal: There are more than 100 teas here, custom blended in jars with names like Life of Brian, Unicorn Tears and Happy Birthday. Our favorite chill-out spot is one of the cozy armchairs in the basement.
Wall and Keogh teahouse, 45 Richmond St. S. Dublin 2
Yvonne Gordon
Yvonne grew up in and went to university in Dublin, and although she regularly travels the world on assignment, she is always proud to return home.
@YvGordon @yvonne.gordon
