We booked an afternoon tea for two at 3 PM at The Old Music Shop in Dublin, and from the moment we arrived, we felt genuinely welcomed and cared for.
While booking online, I requested a window table if possible — not only did they accommodate this, but they went above and beyond. We were greeted with a big smile and such a joyful attitude that it set the tone for the entire experience. I had called earlier to say we might be running late, and instead of any stress, they completely reassured us — no pressure, no problem.
The staff was outstanding. They created a warm, personal atmosphere, always making sure we were comfortable and enjoying ourselves. I wish I had caught the names of the team (two hostesses and a host), because they absolutely deserve to be recognized. At one point, the owner, Finn, came over to check on us 🤯 — and we made sure to tell him just how fantastic the team had been.
The room itself, part of The Castle Hotel, is beautifully decorated and has that quiet, timeless charm that makes you want to stay for hours. Natural sunlight poured in through the windows, adding to the peaceful and elegant vibe.
The menu matched exactly what was shown online and exceeded our expectations. We started with a generous selection of flavorful sandwiches, moved on to fresh scones (oh god 😍), and ended with a delightful variety of desserts — chocolate mousse, macarons, and more. The tea and coffee selection was great, and we were even offered free refills after the first round, which was a lovely touch.
We’re not experts, but we’ve had our share of visiting cafes, restaurants, etc. — and this place gave us far more than we expected for the price. Honestly, I’m worried I won’t have such a good experience again for a long, long time. My mother was beyond happy, and I know she’ll treasure this day for years.
A heartfelt thank you to the entire staff for such a memorable evening ❤️ — and to Finn for checking in and making us feel like more than just customers.
Mauro C
.
31 July 2025
10.0
The Old Music Shop Restaurant in Dublin derives its name from its location in the former premises of Walton’s Music Shop, a renowned establishment that operated there for over 80 years. Founded in 1924 by Martin Walton—a musician who participated in the 1916 Easter Rising and later served as a bodyguard to Michael Collins—Walton’s became a cornerstone of Irish musical culture. It was home to Ireland’s first music school, the Dublin College of Music, and is remembered for its motto: “If you’re going to sing a song, sing an Irish song” .  
Coffee and cafe in the Castle hotel. Don’t be fooled the entrance is through the hotel. They have a great menu with generous portions.
Heather Summers
.
20 April 2025
10.0