We've all been tempted by those incredibly affordable airfare deals to Ireland. But with most of them falling in the autumn and winter months, you might be wondering what to see and do once you get there – and how many sweaters and coats you'll have to pack. Thankfully, Dubliners take to the streets through the winter months, bundling up for plenty of outdoor activities, including al fresco dining. Thankfully, eating outdoors in the Irish capital doesn't have to result in frostbitten fingers and hypothermia – if you take a few cues from the locals. The following local favorites take care to keep their open-air spaces and their patrons warm, regardless of the season.
Odessa
Come on the weekend for Odessa's acclaimed brunch menu, served in the earth- and sand-hued dining room. After you’ve licked what remains of the Vietnamese Chicken Brunch off of your plate, head up to the fourth-floor Roof Bar for a Sparkling Mojito - a prosecco twist on the classic cocktail. Navigate a seat within sight of the fireplace and close to a heating lamp for both warmth and ambiance. Dublin 2, near Dame Street
Brunch mains: €12
Cocktails: €10
The Gibson Hotel
The hotel is known for its well-designed open-air spaces including a bamboo garden and a 5th floor terrace that’s kept warm year-round. Grab a drink from the adjoining bar and enjoy unobstructed views across the city. If you’re still feeling chilly, ask the staff for a blanket for your legs. Dublin 1, Point Village
Bar appetizers €8
Cocktails: €7
Paulie’s Pizza
Outfitted with a wood-fired oven imported from Italy, Paulie’s abides by the standards of Neapolitan pizza making. Order a Junior’s pie topped with butternut squash, pancetta, and goat cheese and grab a table at the sidewalk café for some people watching. Keep yourself toasty by wrapping in a blanket hanging on the back of your chair. Dublin 4
Pizza: €15
Ely Bar and Brasserie
A commitment to seasonal and organic produce is a source of pride at this popular eatery. The hearty menu even includes meat from the restaurant’s own farm as well as homemade bread and locally caught fish. Even better, Ely has a heated waterfront terrace where you can enjoy all of the above. Dublin 1, across the Liffy from Trinity College
Dinner mains: €20
Lunch mains: €14
The Market Bar
The former warehouse is a popular meeting point for the after-work set. Under a skylight ceiling, you can indulge in chorizo skewers and stuffed peppers from the tapas menu or split a pitcher of Sangria with some friends at a table by one of the heaters in the courtyard. Dublin 2, off South Great George's Street
Tapas small: €8, large €12
Sangria by the 1/2 liter (about 1.5 pints): €8
Sangria by the liter: €14
The Dylan Hotel
The Dylan’s namesake bar is known for its cocktail menu and even offers a master class with the on-site mixologist. A mix of hotel guests and locals stop by for an afternoon pick-me-up on the spacious patio equipped with gas lamps to keep the crowd comfortable. Dublin 4, Ballsbridge
Restaurant dinner main: €25
Bar sandwiches & burgers: €10
Cocktails: €10
L’Gueuleton
Savor a bowl of French Onion soup in the rustic back gardens surrounded by worn red brick walls and plants potted in wooden crates and ceramic jugs. Heating lamps and partial coverage from the rain makes this the perfect lunch setting in any weather. Dublin 2, right by The Market Bar
Dinner main: €20
French Onion Soup: €7.80
Patrick Guilbaud Restaurant
A restored Georgian townhouse is the residence of Ireland’s only double Michelin-starred restaurant. If you’re one of the lucky few with a dinner reservation, stay after dessert for a digestif on the stone terrace. On a cool night, a fireplace and wall-mounted heaters will make the experience even more enjoyable. Dublin 2, off of Merrion Row
Appetizer + Fish or Meat + Dessert: €105
