Tucked into the heart of Howth village, 30 Church Street is a restaurant that combines old-world charm with contemporary dining polish. Just a few steps from the harbour, its setting is steeped in atmosphere, with glimpses of historic stonework outside and a lively, warmly lit interior that immediately sets the tone for an evening of relaxed indulgence.
Inside, the dining room strikes a balance between rustic and refined. Timber beams, exposed stone, and flickering firelight create a space that feels intimate without being insular. The open kitchen upstairs adds a dash of theatre, while the hum of conversation from locals and visitors alike brings a convivial buzz.
The 30 Church Street menu showcases the kitchen’s confidence with Irish produce. Starters such as chargrilled octopus or mussels in a chorizo cream arrive well presented, generous without being heavy, and bursting with flavour. For mains, seafood shines — a fillet of salmon with passion-fruit beurre blanc is both elegant and uplifting — while a prime Irish striploin steak, cooked precisely, offers hearty satisfaction. Pizzas are a strong suit here, the dough naturally fermented for depth of flavour and finished with just the right wood-fired char. Desserts remain pleasingly classic: a silken chocolate ganache or crisp-topped crème brûlée, both ideal companions to the concise but thoughtful wine list.
Service is attentive yet unobtrusive. Staff are quick to offer advice on pairings or portion sizes, and while pacing can ease to a leisurely stride on busy evenings, there is never a sense of neglect. The team’s knowledge of both food and drink enhances the overall experience.
Value for money is fair, with pizzas in the mid-teens and more elaborate mains edging higher, justified by quality sourcing and generous servings. Taken together, 30 Church Street offers more than a meal: it is a convivial, polished snapshot of coastal Irish dining — where atmosphere, service and a confident kitchen align to make the journey worthwhile.