The Waterbank Gastro Bar

You're walking along Grand Canal Street Upper when the smell of proper cooking pulls you towards this corner spot that's managed to strike that tricky balance between neighbourhood local and somewhere you'd bring your parents for Sunday lunch. The interior feels lived-in rather than designed within an inch of its life, with enough character to make you want to settle in for the evening rather than just grab a quick one. The kitchen takes itself seriously without being pompous about it, turning out dishes that make you remember why you moved to Dublin 4 in the first place. Whether you're here for a midweek pint that turns into dinner or weekend brunch that stretches into the afternoon, the staff seem to actually care about what they're serving rather than just going through the motions.