Eating out or dining-in this Festive Season? Open Table investigates the top options
Festive feasting: 58% of Irish diners expect to dine out at least once a week this festive season1
- New OpenTable commissioned research reveals 22% of Irish diners would dine solo during the festive season (1st Nov 2023 – 1st Jan 2024), with 30% expecting to do so on a weekly basis1
- 81% of Irish diners expect to spend more or about the same dining out for festive celebrations compared to 20221, with an average spend of €193 per person across the festive period1
- Providing dining inspiration this festive season and beyond, OpenTable reveals its Top 50 restaurants in Ireland 2023, backed by OpenTable diner reviews2
Dining out is on the menu in Ireland this celebratory season: new OpenTable commissioned research shows that 58% of Irish diners are expected to dine out at least once a week this festive season (1st Nov 2023 – 1st Jan 2024),1 with almost half (46%) doing so because they want to enjoy a variety of festive foods that they wouldn’t usually have at home.1
Despite the cost of living crisis, Irish residents expect to spend an average of €193 per person dining out across the festive period,1 with 81% spending more or about the same as they did dining out for festive celebrations in 2022.1 When looking generationally, 30-44 year olds expect to spend the most at €206 on average, per person.1
Tis’ the season to dine solo
OpenTable commissioned research suggests ‘tis the season to dine solo: 22% would dine solo over the festive season,1 with 30% expecting to do so weekly.1 Reasons why include: because it’s their “me time” (40%), to relax / switch off (33%) and so they don’t need to share their food (7%). This is in line with a 2023 dining trend uncovered by OpenTable data, which reveals a 9% boost in Ireland solo diners in 2023 (1st Jan 2023 – 30th Sept 2023) year-over-year.3
Discover a new favourite this celebratory season
Those looking for the perfect venue to celebrate the festivities with friends, family, colleagues or on their own need look no further for inspiration, as OpenTable celebrates a year of dining with its Top 50 restaurants in Ireland 2023.2
Featuring an updated methodology using new metrics, including diner ratings, percentage of reservations made in advance, and five-star reviews, the list uncovers some of the most in-demand restaurants in Ireland on OpenTable, compiled from analysing more than 148,000 diner reviews.2 From fine dining establishments to pubs and cafés in locations across Ireland, the list includes Momo in Waterford City to Raspberry Restaurant in Gorey. Dubliners are in luck, with 86% of the Top 50 restaurants being on their doorstep – including Grano and Orwell Road.
“The majority of Irish diners expect to spend more or about the same on festive celebrations this year compared to last, and research also shows that 57% will be eating out more or about the same as in 20221 – no small feat considering macroeconomic factors,” says Robin Chiang, SVP of International Growth at OpenTable. “2023’s Top 50 list in Ireland highlights some of OpenTable’s most beloved restaurants, including fine dining at Michelin starred Glovers Alley in Dublin to Rusty Oven’s pizzeria in Donegal. Whether diners are looking for a food pitstop whilst Christmas shopping or need inspiration for a work dinner party – the list boasts something for all.”
The complete Top 50 restaurants in Ireland for 2023 list can be viewed here and below in alphabetical order.
