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Dublin › Temple Bar › The Quays Dublin - Temple Bar
The Quays Dublin - Temple BarB+Worth Trying
10-12 Temple Bar, Dublin 2, D02 EW63, Ireland
· Bar, Irish restaurant, Irish pub
· 4.5/5 Google (7283 reviews)
Crowded Temple Bar stalwart delivering classic Irish comfort dishes and lively pub vibes; good food and fast turns, but service can feel rushed and policies strict at peak times.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
The Quays Dublin delivers solid neighborhood dining through strong food quality anchored by well-executed classics—fish and chips, lamb shank, cottage pie—and brisk service that keeps the room moving. However, inconsistent execution on starters and occasional oversalting and cramped seating during peak hours prevent it from reaching higher territory. It's a reliable choice for hearty Irish fare in a central, energetic location, though not a destination restaurant.
Restaurant Summary
Upstairs from the bar in the heart of Temple Bar, this spot hums with lively pub energy and fast-moving service. Diners talk about crisp fish and chips, rich gravies, and portions that satisfy after a day in the city. One guest summed it up: "hearty plates, warm vibe, and a quick turnaround." Expect crowds and tight seating when the music downstairs is in full swing. The cooking favors classic Irish comfort over flash: cottage pie under fluffy mash, tender lamb shank with glossy gravy, creamy seafood chowder, and simple pastas. It suits travelers and groups who want familiar, well-executed staples in a central location rather than culinary experiments. Service is brisk and efficient, though at peak times some felt nudged along to free tables, a trade-off for the venue's high-energy pace. Families will find plenty kids will actually eat—fish and chips, mash, chowder, and pasta—though there is no specific kids menu mentioned. Noise can run high, and space is snug, so earlier seatings are best for children. Vegetarian and some vegan-marked options appear on the current menu, but allergy handling drew mixed feedback, so clarify needs clearly.
At a Glance
- Hearty Irish staples executed well (fish and chips, lamb shank, cottage pie)
- Lively atmosphere with live music downstairs
- Peak-time rushing and strict ordering policies (mains required after 6 reported)
- Tight seating and loud room; not ideal for long lingering
- Drink prices in Temple Bar can sting; verify add-ons and service charges
What Sets It Apart
- lively_pub_music
- classic_irish_comfort_food
- central_temple_bar_location
What People Love
- Crispy, hot fish and chips
- Melt-in-the-mouth lamb shank with gravy
- Speedy kitchen despite crowds
- Warm pub atmosphere and music
Points of Concern
- Pricing is genuinely expensive (€18-32 mains, Temple Bar premiums) which may surprise casual diners
- Service can feel rushed; reports of table-time pressure and policies limiting appetizers-only at dinner
- Crowded and loud; shared tables and heat near kitchen mentioned
- Review patterns are organic overall, but policy rigidity and bar-floor incidents appear intermittently
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost€37-47 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- For vegetarians: Creamy Penne Pasta or Mixed Bean & Vegetable Stew (vegan-marked options available)
- Seafood fans: Duo of Mussels and Chowder for breadth at €19.95
- Value combo: Watch for early specials like starter + entree deals when offered
Perfect For
- Casual Irish comfort dinner near the action
- Group night with pub vibes and fast service
- Tourists wanting reliable classics
- Pre- or post-music bite in Temple Bar
Location Insights
Area: Lively nightlife and tourist district with pubs, music, and crowds; heavy footfall and high-energy evenings.
Safety: Generally busy and well-trafficked; crowd-related incidents possible late at night as in many nightlife areas.
Nearby: Surrounded by pubs, bars, venues, and central-city attractions; quick access to River Liffey and shopping streets.
Temple BarTemple Bar is characterized by its bustling atmosphere with numerous pubs, restaurants, and cultural venues. It is a popular destination for casual dining, traditional Irish music, and social gatherings, often busy and lively especially in the evenings and weekends.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:00–02:00
Tuesday11:00–02:00
Wednesday11:00–02:00
Thursday11:00–02:00
Friday10:30–02:30
Saturday10:30–02:30
Sunday12:00–02:00
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