When one thinks of Irish cuisine, tantalizing images of beef stew, chips and soda bread may spring to mind. However, Ireland has developed quite a sweet tooth, and Dublin in particular has become a haven for sugar lovers. Here’s the lowdown on some of Dublin’s best hidden sweet enterprises:
Confectionary
Sweet shops can be hard to find in Dublin, however a few are worth seeking out, such as Candy Lab in Temple Bar, a real goldmine of traditional American candy. Its pink façade is very inviting and its interior even more so.. Firm favourites such as Twinkies, Reese cups and Fluff can be found here, but also wacky sodas and snacks. Why not try candy corn M&M’s or Pac-man soda?
Chocolate
Irish chocolate brand Butlers Chocolates appears to have the monopoly over chocolate in Dublin city centre, and independent chocolatiers can be hard to find. For the brave who are willing to venture outside of Dublin city centre, English chocolatiers Hotel Chocolat have recently opened a store in Dundrum Town Centre. The warm, aromatic scent of chocolate is impossible to miss when wandering down the isles of Dundrum shopping centre. Aside from mouth-watering chocolate bars and Easter eggs, there is also a seating area where decadent hot chocolate is served. Although, be warned, because 100% dark chocolate is not for the faint-hearted.
Urban Kitchen is also a new chocolatier in town, and specialises in pure, unprocessed chocolates free from additives and low in sugar. They do not currently have their own shop and instead operate a pop up stand every Saturday at the SuperNatural Food Market on Pearse Street.
Ice cream
Yes, Ireland has just survived a snowstorm in March with temperatures middling zero and snow still covering its peaks. But listen to your inner child; it is never too cold for ice cream. Irish dairy is renowned for its creaminess and nowhere celebrates this better than Murphy’s, recently voted fourth best ice cream parlour in the world by Condé Nast readers! This ice cream is made using natural flavours and is still produced in Dingle by the Murphy family.
For those who fancy something slightly different, why not try vegan ice cream at Sun Bear Gelato? Also made using natural ingredients, this new parlour on Dawson street specialises in soy-based ice creams which are delicious enough to convert anyone to veganism.
Cafés
Dublin in currently experiencing a revival of independent cafés selling specialist coffee and delicious cakes. Some firm favourites near Trinity include the affordable Dublin Barista School, as well as Dolce Sicily, with its mouth-watering Sicilian pastries.
However, many hidden gems still await in Dublin city centre, including the Cake Café, situated just off Camden street. Located in a small courtyard, it is a true oasis of calm, coffee and cake. All the baked goods here are made with local ingredients and pure butter. I would recommend the Guinness chocolate cake, which is unusual but equally delicious!
Vegan sweets
Unfortunately, vegan bakeries haven’t come to Dublin yet, but many cafés have vegan options available. Aside from its delectable vegetarian menu, Cornucopia (Wicklow street) has many vegan desserts, many of which are also gluten-free. If you’re in a rush, Blazing Salads also sells beautifully made vegan desserts to go, using seasonal ingredients with a twist. Some of their more unusual creations include Tofu Cheesecake with Pumpkin topping and apple pie with cashew nut topping.
The Fumbally in Merchants Quay is also worth a visit. Its relaxed, open interior is very inviting to students wanting to drink coffee whilst *working* on an essay. The Fumbally specializes in healthy food made with local/organic ingredients. Their vegan desserts may set you back a few euro but are certainly worth a try – the ‘Everything Free’ cookie is delicious and would suit anyone’s dietary restrictions.
A taste of abroad
Fancy something more continental? Why not try Le Petit Parisien, a little French café on Wicklow street. Its quaint atmosphere and French music are enough to seduce any passer-by. Although the service can be quite abrupt or – à la française, the cakes and pastries are beautiful. The chocolate tart and almond croissant are firm favourites and are worth a try.
If you’re in the mood for something more fancy, a little up the street from Le Petit Parisien is the French tea room Ladurée. Its ornate green exterior and tourists peering into the vitrine are not easy to miss. The cakes here resemble works of art – so do their price tags. They also sell macaroons, which are beautifully displayed in their pastel colours. Their hot chocolate is one of the best in Dublin but may not be for everyone – it is very rich and resembles melted chocolate!
