What to eat in Dublin in September: Seasonal delicacies
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Seafood chowder & Carlingford oysters
Dublin’s coastal setting means creamy seafood chowder and fresh oysters are common. Chowder blends local fish and shellfish with cream and herbs, ideal year-round. Carlingford oysters are at their best roughly September–April. Sample both at The Ferryman on Sir John Rogerson’s Quay, or at Saturday market oyster stalls in Temple Bar.
Boxty is a traditional Irish potato pancake made with grated and mashed potato, fried or wrapped around fillings like Guinness beef stew. It is naturally filling and can be adapted with vegetarian fillings. Gallagher’s Boxty House in Temple Bar specialises in different styles and offers gluten-free options clearly marked on the menu.
A full Irish breakfast typically includes bacon, sausages, fried eggs, tomato, beans and slices of black and white pudding. It is a morning meal rather than an all-day dish and suits omnivores; veggie versions swap in meat-free items. Bewley’s Café on Grafton Street serves a classic plate in historic surroundings, usually until late morning.
A modern Dublin favourite, the spice bag is a carton of crispy fried chicken pieces, chips, peppers and onions tossed in a chilli spice mix, sold in many Chinese takeaways. It is popular as a shared late-night snack, not suited to vegetarians or gluten-free diets. Look for busy takeaways around the city centre after pub closing.
Dublin’s plant-based scene includes dishes like seitan “steaks”, vegetable stews and dairy-free desserts. Sova Vegan Butcher on Camden Street serves a fully vegan menu using Irish produce, useful for travellers avoiding animal products. It is popular in the evenings; booking is sensible on weekends.
September offers early autumn comfort, with highs around 17°C and thinning crowds after the first week. Cultural festivals like the Fringe and Theatre Festival keep the city lively. Days shorten, so plan outdoor excursions accordingly. A light jacket and sweater are usually enough for crisp evenings.
Pro tips for visiting Dublin in September
Crowds thin after early September; enjoy more space at attractions.
Major cultural festivals fill the calendar—book headline shows in advance.
Days are shorter; plan outdoor activities for earlier in the day.
Rain is still possible—keep a light raincoat handy.
Hotel prices drop after summer peak; look for deals.
Parks and gardens show early autumn colors—great for photography.
Public transport is less crowded, making city travel easier.
Cutting-edge arts festival presenting new theatre, comedy, dance and multimedia works in theatres and unconventional spaces. It is ideal for audiences who enjoy experimental work. Popular shows and smaller venues sell out; booking early in the run gives the best choice.
For one Friday night in late September (September 25, 2026), hundreds of museums, galleries and institutions open free until late with special tours and performances. It is very popular, with queues at major sites. Plan a realistic route and arrive early at must-see venues.
One of Europe’s longest-running theatre festivals, featuring new Irish plays, international productions and talks in major theatres. It draws dedicated theatre-goers; headline shows often sell out. Book tickets well in advance and consider weekday performances for better availability and prices.
September 2026 (dates TBC, represented as September 1–30) sees live shows from Irish and international podcasters at venues like Liberty Hall and the Sugar Club. True crime, comedy and interview formats appear. Tickets are venue-specific and can sell out for top podcasts.
German-style beer tent event on the Docklands, historically running from mid September to early October (September 17–October 4). It features Bavarian beer, food and live music. Its return in 2026 is TBC; if held, expect rowdy but generally good-natured crowds and evening queues.
Public-facing tech expo tied to Dublin Tech Week, held in spaces like the Science Gallery and Silicon Docks. Demonstrations showcase Irish startups, robotics and AI concepts. Many exhibits are free; it suits visitors curious about Dublin’s tech scene. Exact 2026 dates are TBC.
Plan ahead: must-visit experiences for Dublin in September
