March 2, 2023

If you’re looking for a non-touristy neighbourhood in Dublin to explore, Grand Canal Dock should be at the top of your list. The Dublin Docklands, also known as Silicon Docks, is home to international tech companies such as Google and Facebook, making this neighbourhood a hub of innovation and creativity. Here are some reasons why Grand Canal Dock and the Dublin Docklands are worth a visit:

Breakfast Choices in Grand Canal Dock

There are plenty of breakfast and coffee options in Grand Canal Dock to start your day. Art of Coffee, a small Dublin-based chain, serves up latte art that will leave you in awe. Each barista creates a different pattern every time you visit, and the bunny and teddy bear patterns are crowd favourites. Lolly and Cooks is another great option, offering delicious cupcakes and a morning deal where you can get a coffee and pastry (cupcakes not included) for a discounted price. A Table, a French-inspired coffee shop, serves well-crafted espresso drinks and tempting sweets. Il Valentino, an authentic Italian bakery, offers great coffee and irresistible Italian treats, including the riccotini, a moist cookie filled with chocolate chips. For a sit-down option, try herbstreet, which offers American-style pancakes and egg dishes with great views of the Grand Canal Dock.

Walking Loop through the Dublin Docklands

After breakfast, take a walking loop through the Dublin Docklands, where you’ll find great photo opportunities and edgy street art. Some points of interest include the Bord Gais Energy Theatre, which was designed by world-famous architect Daniel Libeskind, and a neon forest of red poles that sits on the plaza just outside the theatre. Walk past Boland Mills, which was held by Éamon de Valera during the 1916 rising and played a significant role in the fight for Irish independence. Check out the architecturally interesting Gasworks building, a former gas storage cylinder that has now been converted into apartments. Wander the streets behind Barrow Street, where you’ll find quaint cottages with stunning brickwork that historically housed gaswork and mill workers in the area. Keep an eye out for Facebook headquarters next to the Bord Gais Theatre and Google headquarters on Barrow St. Airbnb is located in a series of historic warehouses along the Grand Canal.

Lunch at Boojum

Grab a burrito for lunch at Boojum, where you can indulge in a chicken burrito with medium salsa verde that packs a punch. Boojum is a great approximation of the real thing and will definitely help satisfy cravings for Mexican food on a visit to Dublin.

Evening Activities in Grand Canal Dock

Finish your day with some evening activities in Grand Canal Dock. See a show at The Lir Theatre, catch a musical at the Bord Gais Energy Theatre, or enjoy some cocktails at the Marker Hotel.

In summary, Grand Canal Dock and the Dublin Docklands are a hidden gem in Dublin that are definitely worth exploring. From delicious breakfast options to edgy street art, there is something for everyone in this innovative and creative neighbourhood.