The best family-friendly spots in Ireland

A multi award-winning spot tucked into the cosy village of Slane, Inside Out is the perfect spot for a warm family reunion. Mimicking the vibes of a Mediterranean bistro, the tables are laden with candles, and surrounded by trees and laurels. In summer, make use of the spacious garden and terrace, with room for the little ‘uns to stretch their legs in the sun.

The menu is made up of local Irish produce with an inspired Mediterranean fusion. Dishes are best enjoyed shared family-style, so expect to see the likes of garlic pizza bread, seafood linguini, chickpea falafel, pan fried hake, rustic potatoes, prawns and chorizo, and mussels in a cream broth. Inside Out also has an epic pizza menu with 14 different flavours, including unique toppings such as black pudding and Mozambique chicken.

Pauline’s Restaurant is a family-run spot, making it the perfect place to spend an afternoon with your very own. Located on JKL street, Edenderry, the space is light, bright, and open without being overwhelming. Tuck into a table and relish in knowing you’ll be well-looked after during your visit.

Dine out for lunch or dinner and enjoy the likes of pizzas, pastas, Pauline’s famed steaks, as well as all the traditional bistro dishes you’d expect to find, and a dedicated kid’s menu. If you’re in the mood for something a bit more special, book in for Pauline’s afternoon tea for a real treat. Sandwiches, brioche buns, scones, eclairs, cakes, and your choice of tea, coffee, or bubbles!

Situated in the beautiful Abbey Hotel in Roscommon, The Terrace Restaurant sets a timeless relaxed atmosphere for any kind of get together. The space has recently been refurbished for ultimate relaxation, as well as having the option to explore Abbey Hotel’s luscious grounds before or after your meal.

The menu is comprised of dishes prepared from fresh locally sourced produce and served with great care and attention to detail going in to every plate. Enjoy pizzas, sandwiches, pulled beef Yorkshires, duck spring rolls, burgers, lamb chops, risotto, and pappardelle to name a few. The Terrace also offers a dedicated kid’s menu with roasts of the day, mini burgers, penne pasta, and chicken goujons, to keep the entire table happy.

When we think Italian fare, we think of enjoying it with the family! Casanovas in Stillorgan is the spot for enjoying a family meal out. A cosy, family-centred atmosphere, with a sunny beer garden for the warmer months, everyone feels relaxed at Casanovas.

It’s all about pizza at Casanovas! They proud themselves on their slow rising natural sourdough bases, which are then baked in their wood burning dome oven at 700 degrees, which has been created by specialist artisans from Italy. The delicate process results in a light and crispy pizza, perfect every time. You’ll also find capri salad, oven baked fish, risotto, vegetarian, meat, and seafood pastas, and plenty of sides on the menu. One thing’s for certain, you won’t go home with an empty stomach!

Tradehouse Central is a cool and contemporary pub in Ballincollig’s Main Street, serving up a modern take on pub grub in a comfortable surroundings. Coffee by day, cocktails by night, this is your one-stop-shop for a good time with the family.

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and everything in between is on offer at Tradehouse Central. Opt for a full Irish, eggs Benedict, American style pancakes, or wild mushrooms on toast to start your day. Later on, move on to dishes such as chipotle spiced tacos, 12-hour beef featherblade, baked salmon fillet, Thai red curry or butter chicken masala, and a sirloin steak open sandwich. It’s easy to keep the good times going at Tradehouse Central.