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Dublin › Temple Bar › The Pig’s Ear Dublin
The Pig’s Ear DublinB+Worth Trying
4 Nassau St, Dublin, D02 YX74, Ireland
· Irish restaurant, Restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (1138 reviews)
Reservations
Inventive Contemporary Irish cooking near Trinity with polished service and cozy rooms; excellent for adventurous eaters, but pricing and a 12.5% service charge make value feel mixed.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
The Pig's Ear Dublin delivers solid neighborhood dining through exceptional food quality and confident, attentive service, with memorable dishes like marrow soup and pork chop earning consistent praise. However, inconsistent execution on certain mains and desserts prevents grade A territory, while pricing concerns and tight seating in upper rooms temper the overall experience. The contemporary Irish approach and Trinity-adjacent location make it competitive with Dublin's better neighborhood restaurants, though it falls short of the city's premier dining destinations.
Restaurant Summary
Set inside an old townhouse by Trinity, the room feels warm and cozy with window seats overlooking the college greens. Service is confident and guiding, from splitting wine pours to walking you through deconstructed plates. One diner said it felt like being welcomed back to a familiar place, while another noted the space can turn lively and loud when full. The cooking riffs on Irish comfort with playful flourishes: marrow-rich "famine" soup, a crisp-edged pork chop, Dublin Lawyer as an omelette, and a mixed grill that indulges carnivores. The approach is contemporary Irish, ingredient-led and witty rather than showy, ideal for diners who enjoy creative twists on tradition. Desserts polarize: the jarred cheesecake delights some and frustrates others. Families will find a few friendly anchors like mashed potatoes, cod, bread and butter, and simple veg sides, though the menu skews adventurous. There is no explicit kids menu; picky eaters may prefer classic mains or shareable sides. Staff guidance helps tailor choices for younger palates.
At a Glance
- Confident, knowledgeable service that guides without fuss
- Creative Contemporary Irish dishes with memorable soups and pork
- 12.5% service charge and premium pricing surprise some diners
- Consistency dips on certain mains and pacing at peak times
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- playful takes on Irish classics
- intimate townhouse dining rooms
- proximity to Trinity College views
What People Love
- Emotionally satisfying takes on Irish staples
- Warm, capable staff who explain dishes
- Cozy rooms with Trinity views
- Standout pork chop and marrow toast
Points of Concern
- Pricing is genuinely high (mains €25+ and 12.5% service charge) which may surprise casual diners
- Some mains like cod and pork can be inconsistent across visits
- Jarred cheesecake presentation divides opinions and can be awkward to eat
- Service coordination can slip for large tables or at busy times
- Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost€55-75 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For pescatarians, choose Line-caught Cod with mussels plus broccoli with miso; vegetarians pair Pot Roast Cauliflower with champ mash and garden salad.
Perfect For
- Date night near Trinity before a show
- Celebrating with modern takes on Irish classics
- Adventurous eaters seeking playful plates
- Solo diners wanting a welcoming spot
Location Insights
Area: Central, tourist-friendly cultural district beside Trinity College; mix of students, office workers, and visitors.
Safety: Well-trafficked, generally safe day and evening with strong footfall and lighting.
Nearby: Opposite Trinity College; near museums, Grafton Street shopping, and city attractions.
Dublin 2Dublin 2 is a bustling urban neighborhood combining commercial, cultural, and residential elements. It offers a diverse dining scene ranging from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, attracting a mix of business clientele and visitors seeking authentic Irish and contemporary cuisine.
Nassau StreetNassau Street is a lively street near Trinity College, popular with students and tourists. It features a variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants, blending historic charm with a youthful, energetic atmosphere.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday17:00–21:00
Wednesday17:00–21:00
Thursday17:00–21:00
Friday17:00–21:00
Saturday12:00–14:30, 17:30–21:00
Sunday
Available: Reservations
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