Etto
A tiny, much-loved Italian-leaning wine bar and restaurant on Merrion Row, famous for big flavour out of a small kitchen.
The call
Worth it if you only have one day and you're traveling as a couple.
Short answer
Is Etto worth it?
Etto deserves a place on most first itineraries. Go early or reserve ahead. Crowds are part of the cost.
The answer depends on your budget, time and travel style; the breakdown below shows who gets the most value.
Why
- 01
Buzzy, narrow and convivial, with chalkboard plates and a smart wine list.
- 02
It punches far above its size and is a Dubliner's go-to for a great meal without the fine-dining freight.
Is it a fit?
Go if
You only have one day
Short trip or not, keep Etto.
You're traveling as a couple
As a couple, Etto is an easy yes.
You're traveling solo
Solo, Etto is an easy yes.
Food is a reason to travel
Etto rewards a trip built around food & drink.
Think twice if
You're traveling with kids
With kids, skip Etto.
You're watching the budget
Etto can strain a tight budget. Go only when it is a priority.
You're planning for two
Etto offers some romance, but not enough to make it the reason to go.
The night matters
Etto offers some nightlife, but not enough to make it the reason to go.
The plates that decide it
- Cacio e pepe agnolotti — the standout pasta, and the reason regulars keep coming back
- Crispy potatoes with pecorino custard — the cult side everyone orders alongside the small plates
- A glass from the by-the-glass list — the wine programme is a real draw
Plan it well
- Cost
- Mid-range; small plates add up quickly
- Allow
- 1.5 hours
Sources and method (2)
- Listed in the 2026 MICHELIN Guide (standard listing). It held a Bib Gourmand from 2014 but lost the Bib in the 2019 cycle — it is no longer a current Bib Gourmand. guide.michelin.com ↗
- A compact seasonal bistro/wine bar on Merrion Row, just off St Stephen's Green near the National Gallery. thingstodoindublincity.com ↗