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Yoi IzakayaB+Worth Trying

Name: Yoi Izakaya
Address: 71 Mespil Rd, Dublin, D04 XA71, Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
Rating: 4.7

71 Mespil Rd, Dublin, D04 XA71, Ireland · Japanese restaurant · 4.7/5 Google (801 reviews)

Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating

Creative Japanese-led izakaya with generous portions and lively energy; great sushi and ramen, but occasional service lapses and authenticity quibbles.

Why it gets a B+ for overall quality

Yoi Izakaya delivers solid neighborhood dining with strong food quality anchored by fresh sashimi and generous rolls that earn loyal repeat visits. Friendly, quick service and a pleasant canal-side setting support the grade, though quality variation during busy nights and service rushes prevent higher standing. Best suited for diners seeking hearty Japanese comfort with good value rather than strict traditionalism.

Restaurant Summary

Set along the canal, Yoi Izakaya buzzes with a lively, casual energy upstairs while the lower level runs quieter. Reviewers describe staff as friendly and quick, though on packed nights service can feel rushed. One diner summed it up: "Fresh fish, big flavors, and a room that hums when it is full." However, some guests found end-of-night pacing abrupt or seating by the door drafty. The cooking leans Japanese comfort with generous futomaki, bright sashimi, and ramen that many find soulful, with occasional fusion touches like kimchi fried rice and wasabi truffle oil. It is best for diners who enjoy variety and hearty portions over strict traditionalism; a few ramen purists note broth depth or noodle style misses, while most praise freshness and value. For families, the menu is friendly: mild rolls, ramen and rice bowls, gyoza, and crispy items suit many kids even without a dedicated children menu. Portions are sizeable, and prices are fair for the area; just aim for earlier seatings to avoid the louder rush.

At a Glance

Fresh sashimi and large specialty rolls draw repeat fans
Good value for Dublin with generous portions
Service can feel rushed or uneven during peak times
Ramen authenticity and noodle style divisive among purists
Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food

What Sets It Apart

generous_futomaki_rolls
broad_menu_spanning_sushi_and_ramen
canal_side_setting

What People Love

Fresh, buttery salmon sashimi
Huge, photo-worthy futomaki
Fast, friendly service on most visits
Lively upstairs vibe with cozy seating

Points of Concern

Closing-time rush on busy nights can feel abrupt
Occasional misfires: tuna sinew, over-fried gyoza, missing side
Authenticity debates around ramen broth and noodle types
Delivery issues via third-party apps lead to poor resolution

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost€34-48 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

Choose mid-priced ramen plus a shared roll for value
Vegetarians: Yasai gyoza, Vegetable Futomaki, and Veg Savoury Rice form a satisfying trio

Perfect For

Casual sushi and ramen night with friends
Quick but satisfying weekday lunch near the canal
Solo bite at a lively izakaya-style spot
Date night without white-tablecloth formality

Location Insights

Area: Leafy canal-side corridor bridging city centre and Ballsbridge; office workers by day, relaxed dining crowd evenings.

Safety: Generally safe, well-lit and well-trafficked; comfortable for evening dining.

Nearby: Near Grand Canal, hotels and offices; walkable to city centre and Baggot Street bars.

BallsbridgeBallsbridge is a well-established, upscale neighborhood characterized by elegant homes, embassies, and a refined dining atmosphere. The area offers a mix of traditional Irish pubs and contemporary restaurants, attracting a clientele that appreciates quality and a quieter, sophisticated environment.

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, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating

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