Pig's Ear in Dublin

Based on a tip from the blog "Dit is Anna", we reserved a table here for dinner. Beautiful location opposite Trinity College and a pleasant atmosphere. The food was good and tasty. The host was somewhat moody and rushed. When paying the bill, we were surprised by a 12.5% ​​service charge on top of the bill; this was not mentioned anywhere on the menu. We did not pay this service charge, and they refused to accept the tip we gave by rounding the amount up to €200.00. This unpleasant aftertaste ruined what was otherwise a nice dinner.

This is a restaurant I was introduced to by a local acquaintance during my first visit to Dublin in 2019, and it left a very strong impression on me. I wanted to go again on this trip, so I revisited it. I visited on my second day in Dublin. I was a little tired after sightseeing at Newgrange and suffering from jet lag, so I didn't have much of an appetite, but I enjoyed a light meal with wine. I ordered the soup from "The Old Dubliner," Salmon Gravlax, and "Jammets" Mixed Grill. All the dishes were carefully prepared and delicious. I was particularly satisfied with the salmon and the grilled dishes. However, perhaps due to my physical condition or expectations, this visit didn't quite reach the same level of "Wow!" as my first visit in 2019. Nevertheless, it remains a wonderful restaurant where you can enjoy a relaxing meal in Dublin. I was happy to revisit this memorable place.

Amazing all around. Starters, entrees (esp Pork Chop and Mixed Grill) and desserts (all were a hit). Ambiance exceptional. Would go back in a heartbeat.

Every meal has history in this intimate spot serving elevated traditional Irish food. Absolutely delicious!

Anyone who gave this place less than 5 stars shouldn’t be allowed in restaurants. Everything was perfect and the people were better. Best meal we’ve had in a while

First off is the good: the food. Pure Irish comfort food at reasonable prices for the quality you get. There was one weird quirk where for some reason they serve basically just a head of dressed butter lettuce with the pie, which doesn't go with it at all. Why not serve mash? I guess because they want you to buy it separately. They also try and get you to buy water for the table but I just asked for tap, which is superior to the bottled stuff and not destroying the planet (and free). Next is the poor part. The restaurant is cramped, hot, loud, and the service is subpar. They also force a 12.5% service charge, which is unbelievably absurd. It kind of explains the poor service though, as the owner doesn't even talk to you unless you order an overpriced bottle of wine. The staff is standoffish at best, with only a moment of pleasantry while first ordering. Maybe if you order more they'll be nicer, if only because they know they get an included tip. Overall I don't understand how Michelin could recommend this place. The food that I tried was good but that's the only good part about this place.

We made a reservation for two on a Tuesday evening at 17:30. Arriving a bit early, we were pleasantly surprised to be seated right away. The restaurant, located on the second floor, has a warm and intimate atmosphere that sets the tone for the evening. The servers were knowledgeable and attentive, offering helpful recommendations—especially when I couldn’t decide on my main. We started with the salmon and scallops, both delicious and perfectly sized as small bites before the main course. For mains, I had the cod while my partner chose the pork chops, and both dishes were outstanding. I’d even go as far as saying it was the best cod I’ve ever had. To finish, we tried the cheesecake and the orange seed cake, both of which were creative and enjoyable twists on classic desserts. If you’re particularly hungry, I’d recommend adding an extra snack or side. Overall, a fantastic experience—we’ll definitely be back the next time we’re in Dublin.

I really liked the chicken pot pie, however most of the other food was fairly plain, which wasn't very good for the price (~30€ for main course + ~15€ appetizer -- note that either an appetizer or a side is a required purchase along with the main course). Additionally the portion sizes didn't make much sense as you can see there is a kidney pudding which was advertised and priced as a main course despite being the size of the appetizers, especially when the pot pie was so much larger (though note its a pot pie for two people). On the other hand the atmosphere was nice and the service was good.

The best meal we have had in a long time! Exquisite from the starter to the meal. The chicken pie was magnificent. Champs was a dream. We cannot say enough about this culinary gem! Bravo.

Very cosy environment serving class Irish food.