Here's What You Missed in July

It’s been a massive month for Irish food and drink, with new openings, major comebacks, exciting events, and big shifts in how we eat out. Here's what you need to know.

Cost of Living Bites into Dining Out

The rising cost of living is hitting consumers hard, with nearly two-thirds of Irish diners visiting restaurants less often than last year. An alarming 82% of people have cut back on their restaurant spending, a clear sign of the intense pressure on household budgets.

At Early Table, we’re stepping up to support the industry. Our dynamic pricing and exclusive member discounts help restaurants attract more guests during quieter periods. By booking through our platform, you're not just getting a great deal-you're supporting small businesses, preserving jobs, and helping to keep Ireland’s vibrant food culture alive.

Every booking counts. Book a table now. 

NYX Hotels: Your New Go-To Spots

We've been huge fans of the NYX brand, and we're thrilled to announce that both NYX Portobello and NYX Christchurch are now live on Early Table!

• NYX Portobello is right on the Grand Canal, buzzing with locals and featuring live DJs, signature cocktails, and all-day dining. It's the perfect spot for a weekend brunch with a beat or dinner with flair.

• NYX Christchurch, nestled between Christchurch Cathedral and Temple Bar, offers a more relaxed, yet equally stylish, experience. Expect all-day dining with inventive Nikkei-inspired menus crafted from top-tier Irish produce, all served in a sustainable and effortlessly chic setting.

Consider this your official invite to a new kind of dining experience-and now you can get it for less.

The Queen’s Pub, Dalkey Makes A Historic Comeback

A Dalkey institution since 1745, The Queen’s Pub has been beautifully refurbished and reopened under new ownership. The historic pub now blends its cozy, old-world charm with modern comfort and style.

The multi-million-euro restoration by Doherty Hospitality has brought The Queen’s back to life. You’ll find updated interiors, cozy seating, live music, elevated Irish classics, and fresh seafood-all served alongside perfectly poured pints. Whether you’re looking for a post-beach pint or a proper dinner, The Queen’s is back and better than ever.

Nutbutter Opens Its Biggest Location Yet

Nutbutter, the Dublin-born brand known for its vibrant, healthy-first dining, is bringing its largest location ever to Dundrum Town Centre this autumn. Since launching in 2018, Nutbutter has become a go-to for globally inspired bowls and feel-good food made with fresh Irish ingredients.

The new two-floor venue will overlook the scenic Mill Pond and feature over 180 seats, including a sunny terrace and waterside balcony. The menu will include a Dundrum-exclusive autumnal selection with dishes like Mexican pozole, an inventive Irish stew twist, tacos, and plenty of plant-based options.

Why this is a big deal:

• Scale & Ambition: This is Nutbutter’s largest location yet, built to serve the massive footfall of Dundrum Town Centre.

• Health Meets Indulgence: The menu is packed with fresh, globally inspired dishes made from scratch, with zero refined sugar and loads of plant-based choices.

• A Mission with Heart: Founder Paddy Hogan created Nutbutter after experiencing burnout, with a mission to make healthy food exciting and nourishing.

The new location will be walk-in only, perfect for spontaneous lunches or dinners.

Dublin Beer Festival Returns to the RDS

The Dublin Beer Festival is back at the RDS on September 12–13, 2025, and it promises to be bigger and bolder than ever. With over 200 beers from more than 50 breweries, it's a two-day celebration of craft beer and community.

Expect everything from crisp pilsners and rich stouts to adventurous smoothie sours you've never tried before. The festival will also feature live DJs, street food vendors, and stands for cocktails and wine.

Early bird tickets are on sale now, so gather your crew and get ready to raise a glass to Ireland’s premier beer fest!

Big Mamma Hits Dublin!

The renowned Big Mamma Group is officially coming to Dublin! Their first Irish restaurant, Gloria Osteria, is set to open at 41 Westmoreland Street in late 2025, and we're already counting down the days.

Big Mamma launched in Paris in 2015 and is celebrated across Europe for its fully homemade menus, bold retro-Italian interiors, and commitment to sourcing from over 170 artisan Italian producers. The Dublin venue will offer 180 seats and a private dining room, all within a beautifully restored historic building.

What to expect at Gloria:

Think creamy Puglian burrata, 22-month aged Parmigiano Reggiano, and silky homemade pastas, all served with theatrical flair and classic Italian warmth.

Stay tuned, as this opening is set to redefine Dublin’s dining scene. You won’t want to miss it.

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