Where to Eat, Drink, and Chill in Doolin This Summer
Nestled along the Wild Atlantic Way, Doolin isn’t just a gateway to jaw-dropping scenery, it’s also a hub for food lovers, coffee seekers, and those looking to slow down and enjoy life.
Whether you’re here for fine dining, a cosy pub session, or a relaxed bite with a local feel, this guide brings together some of the best places to eat, drink, and chill in and around Doolin this summer.
Oar Restaurant – Rustic Fine Dining with Local Flair:
If you’re in the mood to treat yourself, Oar Restaurant delivers a standout experience that combines refined flavours with a warm, relaxed atmosphere. Recognised in the 2024 Michelin Guide and praised with numerous awards, Oar puts locally sourced ingredients at the heart of their menu. Head Chef Cezary Sodel crafts dishes that elevate Clare’s produce into culinary artistry.
Good food, good company, and that unmistakable Doolin welcome.
Visit Oar
Russell’s Seafood Bar – Fresh Catch Meets Trad Vibes
Inspired by the legendary Russell musical family, this seafood bar serves up dishes that are grounded in place and packed with flavour. Their fish and shellfish are sourced within a 25km radius, meaning what lands on your plate is as fresh as it gets.
The atmosphere is relaxed yet polished, perfect for those who want quality food in a setting that still feels local.
Visit Russell’s
Glas Restaurant – Sustainable, Seasonal, and Stylish
Located within Hotel Doolin, Glas is your go-to for modern Irish cuisine with a conscience. Their dishes feature sustainable, locally produced ingredients and are presented with creative flair. Glas is ideal for an elegant but unfussy night out, what they call “fine dining without the fuss.”
Stonewall Pizzeria & Wine Bar – Pizza and Chill, Doolin Style
For laid-back dining with plenty of charm, head to Stonewall. This intimate space serves authentic wood-fired pizzas made with top-quality Irish ingredients.
Whether you’re sipping organic wine al fresco or grabbing a coffee and pastry mid-day, this little gem delivers flavour and atmosphere in equal measure.
Homestead Cottage – Grown, Foraged, and Full of Heart
Set in a traditional Clare cottage, Homestead Cottage offers a unique dining experience rooted in seasonality. Chefs Robbie and Sophie McCauley grow and forage much of what appears on your plate, making each dish feel personal and grounded in the land.
With lunch and dinner options available, it’s a spot that speaks to those who value a story behind their food.
Fitz’s Pub – Where Music, Pints, and Great Food Collide
If you want the full Doolin experience, Fitz’s Pub is a must. Famous for live traditional music 365 days a year, it pairs its legendary atmosphere with restaurant-quality bar food.
Expect local seafood, hearty mains, and vegetarian options, all served in a lively yet cosy setting.
McDermott’s Pub & Restaurant – Classic Irish Hospitality
A Doolin institution since 1887, McDermott’s combines traditional Irish charm with a strong food and drink offering. The bar food menu is broad, the portions generous, and the drinks selection thoughtfully curated, from Irish craft beers to specialist whiskeys.
Their nightly trad sessions make it an ideal place to relax into the evening.
McGann’s Pub – Laid-Back and Lively
Open all year round, McGann’s is known for its friendly atmosphere, generous portions, and live traditional music seven nights a week in summer. Their menu includes everything from fish and chips to hearty Irish stews and daily specials.
A local favourite for good reason. Drop into McGann’s
The Ivy Cottage – Quaint, Charming, and Delicious
Set in an old-world cottage, The Ivy Cottage is the kind of place you stumble upon and never forget. They specialise in fresh seafood, burgers, pasta, and home-baked treats, all served in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
Perfect for a peaceful lunch or early dinner. Explore The Ivy Cottage
Ballinalacken Castle – A Touch of Elegance
A short drive from the village, Ballinalacken Castle offers refined dining in a scenic, historic setting. Whether you’re enjoying a pre-dinner drink in their cosy, wood-panelled pub or sitting down for a meal in their elegant restaurant, this is a spot for those looking to elevate their evening.
Aranview Service Station – A Local Favourite for a Quick Bite
It may be a service station, but Aranview surprises with its warm hospitality and quality bites. With home-baked goods from Val’s Bakery and a great deli counter, it’s a perfect pit stop to grab a snack, a coffee, or a light lunch on the go.
Proof that good food doesn’t always need white tablecloths. Visit Aranview
Final Sip
Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, a casual lunch with friends, or just a quiet coffee after a coastal walk, Doolin delivers. Its mix of flavours, styles, and stories makes eating and drinking here more than just a necessity, it’s a reason to visit in itself.