Hugo’s – An exceptional restaurant behind the famous blue façade

Hugo's Restaurant

It would be effortless to mistake Hugo’s restaurant for a coffee shop from the outside.

Located in Dublin, the bright blue façade and gold lettering can be quite misleading to tourists.

However, it is probably one of the most photographed places on Merrion Row and one of the most recognizable restaurants.

Just as the old saying goes “never judge a book by its cover,” don’t judge this restaurant by the exterior.


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cooked scallops showing an example of the best food at hugo's restaurant in dublin

Hugo’s Restaurant

Hugo's Restaurant
Hugo’s Restaurant

Behind the iconic bright blue façade is an extraordinary setting with delectable food designed by head chef Maggie Roche.

Her skill and imagination showcase locally sourced produce to create mouthwatering dishes. Hugo’s Restaurant has earned its reputation as one of the finest Irish/French restaurants in Dublin over the past decade.

The décor of Hugo’s Restaurant is a Victorian-era with a splash of Irish. The beautiful wallpapers complement the brown wooden tables and chairs throughout the restaurant.

The backroom is also a display of wine bottles from around the world. Color is sprinkled throughout the restaurant with pillows, seat cushions, light shades, and long draperies.

The Menus

Hugo's Restaurant
Hugo’s Restaurant

Hugo’s Restaurant has five menus available for guests. The lunch menu is available Monday to Friday from 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm. The pre-theatre menu is offered nightly from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Ala Carte Menu is also available nightly from 5:00 pm to close.

Sunday brunch is presented Sundays from 12:00 pm to 3:30 pm. They also have a set dinner menu available for groups of 6 or more.

All the menus have many options to choose from. Some of the starters available were the soup of the day with homemade bread, Clonakilty black pudding & Pink Lady apple puff pastry galette, Daly’s smoked salmon, and duck and rabbit terrine. Entrees include Tournedos Rossini, pan-fried cod, slow roasted crispy pork belly, Wicklow venison haunch, root vegetable pithivier, and honey glazed Manor Farm chicken breast.

The extensive wine list might make choosing a glass the hardest decision of the night. With over 50 types of wine from around the world available by the glass, there is something for everyone.

My Luscious Dinner

Hugo's Restaurant - Seared Kilkeel Scallops
Hugo’s Restaurant – Seared Kilkeel Scallops

I started with the delicious Seared Kilkeel Scallops. It came with carrot, coconut milk, and lime puree mixed with a soy-glazed pork belly along with pineapple satay sauce.

Hugo's Restaurant - Irish Sirloin Steak
Hugo’s Restaurant – Irish Sirloin Steak

My entrée was the 10 oz grass-fed prime Irish Sirloin Steak which is served nicely with a bucket of thickly prepared fries, watercress, and Gold River Farm Salad. I choose to have Pink Peppercorn Sauce over the Café de Paris Butter to compliment my succulent steak.

Hugo's Restaurant - Praline
Hugo’s Restaurant – Praline

My delectable dessert was the Praline. It was peanut butter and milk chocolate mousse along with caramelized salted peanuts on top of a warm chocolate brownie; all of which is accompanied by a scoop of Salted Caramel Ice Cream.

restaurant interior with with white tablecloths and napkins dublin ireland

Around The City of Dublin

Downtown Dublin, Ireland
Downtown Dublin, Ireland

Hugo’s Restaurant is located right in the heart of Dublin on Merrion Row, down the street from the luxurious Shelbourne Spa. You can enjoy a relaxing stroll through St.

Stephens Green before or after your meal at Hugo’s. Additionally, the bustling and famous Grafton Street is within minutes’ walking to Hugo’s. Sports fans can enjoy tours or events at Croke Park and Aviva Stadium.

For those looking for a little rest and relaxation, the Bodywise Clinic is an excellent place for a massage.

For an afternoon of pampering, I recommend Buff Day Spa or the luxurious Shelbourne Spa.

For those who are interested in the history and making of alcoholic beverages, you can go on tours at the Teeling Distillery, the Whiskey Museum, and the Guinness Store.

Excellent day tours from Dublin include Cork & Blarney, Kilkenny Day Tour, and the Cliffs of Moher.

Hugo’s Is A Fantastic Restaurant In a Great City.

Hugo's Restaurant
Hugo’s Restaurant

Dublin is a wonderful city and Hugo’s Restaurant is fantastic.

It is the ideal place to visit for a romantic dinner, business meeting, or brunch with friends. With excellent food and service, you will not be disappointed.

steak and fries at hugo's restaurant dublin

Additional Info.

Hugo's Restaurant
Hugo’s Restaurant

Reservations recommended: yes

Parking Available: nearby street parking is available

Pet-Friendly: no


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