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Arisu RestaurantB+Worth Trying
120 Capel St, North City, Dublin, D01 KC63, Ireland
· Korean restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (1994 reviews)
Reservations · Takeout
Bustling Korean BBQ on Capel Street with flavorful stews and lively grills; value is good at lunch, BBQ and drinks can add up, and service can feel rushed during peak times.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Arisu delivers energetic Korean BBQ dining with strong food quality in stews and bibimbap that keeps regulars returning. However, quality variation—gummy sushi rice, portion swings, occasional service rushes— and isolated but notable safety complaints prevent grade A territory. The bustling Capel Street location and approachable menu make it competitive with the area's better neighborhood restaurants, though execution needs tightening.
Restaurant Summary
On Capel Street, Arisu hums with lively BBQ energy: full tables, call buttons, and servers whisking sizzling platters to the grill. Diners describe fast-moving service and big flavors, like one who said the tofu stew was “perfect for the cold” and the kimchi rice “excellent.” Seats turn briskly at peak times, so the vibe can feel chaotic but good-natured rather than formal. The cooking favors classic Korean comfort—jjigae, bibimbap in hot stone, tteokbokki—supported by a broad BBQ lineup. The approach is elevated traditional more than avant-garde, though the sushi-roll section divides opinion (one rainbow roll with orange was not a hit). Lunch sets and stews deliver the strongest value; BBQ and premium drinks can climb quickly. Families do fine here thanks to approachable staples like fried rice, teriyaki chicken, dumplings, and mild noodles. Vegetarians have options across rice, noodles, and rolls, but the grill skews meat-focused. If you want kids on the grill action, plan on non-spicy meats and sides, and consider lunch specials for easier pricing.
At a Glance
- Flavorful stews and dolsot bibimbap praised repeatedly
- Energetic BBQ experience with staff assistance at the grill
- BBQ portions and drink prices feel high to some diners
- Inconsistent sushi rolls; better to focus on Korean dishes
- Occasional complaints about cleanliness and a food safety incident
What Sets It Apart
- staff_assisted_bbq_experience
- broad_korean_menu_with_lunch_value
- central_capel_street_location
What People Love
- Comforting, balanced jjigae on cold days
- Staff helping grill so meat turns out right
- Generous noodles and value-focused lunch sets
- The buzz of a packed room that feels celebratory
Points of Concern
- Pricing is genuinely expensive for alcohol; expect premium pricing on soju and beer
- BBQ portions draw mixed reactions; add rice and sides as needed
- Occasional service brusqueness or rushed feel during peak hours
- Review patterns are consistent with typical mixed city-center diners; a few safety and cleanliness complaints warrant caution but are not systemic
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost€30-42 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Choose a stew plus a shared pancake for a filling €25-30 meal
- Add €2.50 rice to BBQ items since it is not included
- Vegetarians: target dolsot bibimbap (tofu) and veg rolls; grill lacks veg options
Perfect For
- Group BBQ nights with friends
- Casual dinners craving spicy Korean comfort
- Warm-up lunches with hearty stews
- Celebrations where lively energy beats quiet formality
Location Insights
Area: Central, lively Capel Street with diverse eateries and casual nightlife; appeals to students, office workers, and weekend diners.
Safety: Generally safe, busy thoroughfare with steady foot traffic; typical city-center vigilance at night.
Nearby: Near shopping streets, pubs, Asian groceries, and Luas stops; dense dining competition on the same street.
SmithfieldSmithfield is a lively neighborhood with a strong community feel, popular for its trendy bars, restaurants, and cultural spaces. The dining scene is diverse, offering everything from casual eateries to more upscale dining, attracting a mix of locals and visitors.
Capel StreetCapel Street is known for its eclectic mix of restaurants and bars, offering a cosmopolitan dining experience with a focus on international cuisines. It is a popular spot for social dining and nightlife.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–22:00
Tuesday12:00–22:00
Wednesday12:00–22:00
Thursday12:00–22:00
Friday12:00–22:00
Saturday12:00–22:00
Sunday12:00–22:00
Available: Reservations, Takeout
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