Dublin holds a special place in my heart: I studied there and it is where I first met my husband, James. Although I now live in London, I still go back all the time for client projects and to visit family. It might be a bit of a clicheÌ, but the craic in Dublin really is better than anywhere else in the world — it’s got this vibe that is unlike anything else and everyone is a real character.
My dream Dublin day would start by waking up at The Merrion Hotel. It’s a traditional terrace right in the centre of Dublin with those elegant Georgian proportions that you just don’t find anywhere else. There’s no better place for breakfast than Daddy’s CafeÌ in Rialto; it has an old Irish kitchen vibe and is run by one of my best pals. It specialises in the very best of Irish produce. You can’t go and not try the Annascaul sausages from Co Kerry, they’re a local delicacy. Plus they’ve got the best soundtrack, you can’t help but find yourself bopping along to Madonna.
After finishing up, I’d drag myself away for a stroll through St Stephen’s Green with James and our son, Cosmo. It’s always busy and full of life, Cosmo loves it. Wander over to South William Street and then head to Powerscourt Townhouse, a great spot for small Irish boutiques. We love Cloon Keen for candles, MoMuse for jewellery and Article for homeware. There’s also The Garden, an amazing florist which actually did the flowers for our wedding, so we always pick up a bunch.
Every time I go back I pick up some art. The Royal Hibernian Academy is brilliant, I would definitely check out a show there (James’ mum Abigail is actually the first female president in its 200-year history.) Frances Street is a must for antiques, with an array of classic Georgian pieces as well as contemporary finds — go to Michael Mortell for a bit of mid-century magic.
The food scene in Dublin is incredible. Just off Frances Street is Variety Jones. It is pretty small and there is a set menu each night so you never really know what you are going to get, but it is always delicious. I also love Chapter One and Etto. For something more relaxed I go to Hang Dai, where you feel like you are in a scene from Blade Runner. I don’t drink, but Dublin’s famous for its pubs and bars. There is The Cobblestone for traditional Irish music and 777 is the best spot for the Margaritas. I also have to mention Grogans on William Street South, as I always find my pals there.
Finally, no night out is complete without going to Mother. It’s a crazy rabbit warren of rooms over several floors and the most fun you could ask for on a night out, incredible disco music every Saturday and the best inclusive atmosphere. You also can’t go wrong with a trip to The George for some star jumping and leg splitting with Veda and Davina Devine, two of the city’s greatest living icons.
