Upon entering The Port House, situated on South William Street, you feel transported from the bleak Dublin cobbles into a Spanish grotto. The dining area’s stone walls and low lighting—provided exclusively from candles—creates a warm atmosphere.

The relaxed feel is not limited to the environment but also the meal service, with cutlery and napkins in a tin box on the table as well as paper menus. The best course of action when eating tapas is to order multiple items and switch between plates as you eat. The dishes are small and moderately priced (averaging around €6) so getting a few to share is affordable, even on a student budget.

The Paella de Marisco, a seafood rice dish in a cream sauce and served with a wedge of lemon, along with the Catalan Cannelon con espinaca, a cylindrical pasta stuffed with ricotta cheese, tomato sauce, spinach and fresh basil—reminiscent of a large ravioli—was a staff recommendation and not to be missed. Most dishes are gluten free and many vegetarian friendly. If you’re treating yourself, a glass of Sangria, made with fresh fruit, and the Churros Con Chocolate make for a luxurious end to any meal.