Overlooking the landmark Ha’penny Bridge, The Woollen Mills uses its four floors wisely to accommodate diners throughout the day with its Irish produce, generous portions and buzzy atmosphere.
Natural light pours in through large Georgian windows on either corner of the room. While the cushioned window sills are inviting, the metallic chairs aren’t the vision of comfort. Packed together in an airy room against tiled floors, the place brims with energy, just as it would have in bygone days.
It’s clear from the menu that the restaurant regards itself as a quintessential Irish eating house, striving to maintain the charm of the century-old building formerly frequented by Dublin’s literati – James Joyce, for one. Sticky bacon ribs are given an Irish touch with a whiskey and marmalade glaze while a Ha’penny bridge coddle pays tribute to Dublin’s comfort food fashioned from leftovers. The pudding menu is a further reminder of the restaurant’s Irish roots, featuring all-time favourites of bread and butter pudding and Dublin’s gur cake. Vegetarians are well spoken for at The Woollen Mills, with dishes forged from fresh local produce. The restaurant also has a colossal breakfast and brunch menu – think a ‘pigs on the green’ bacon butty and a playful Ha’penny fry up.
Wine is sourced from boutique wineries, juices are made freshly on-site and cocktails have an air of Irish charm. Head to the heated rooftop terrace to swig on a whiskey and spiced fig Old Fashioned beneath a string of fairy lights.
The Woollen Mill is an all-day dining spot which caters to your every need – whether you’re craving a quick bite, leisurely three-course meal or an Instagram-worthy brunch. The set lunch is a steal, with the addition of a glass of wine only setting you back €5.