BRUNCH IS A magical meal.

Caught between two traditional meal-times, it operates on its own special timeframe and adheres to its own set of rules. By which we mean, it can go on for many enjoyable hours and can consist of… well, absolutely whatever you like.

Here are the most festive places to enjoy this wondrous meal around Ireland.

1. Avoca, Wicklow

Avoca Avoca

This’ll be an absolute belter for brunch if it snows, with lots of amazing views from their rooftop terrace across rolling hills.

Also handy for early risers, as Egg (named after the shape of the space, but also presumably the tasty dishes on offer) opens at 9am. The early bird catches the brunch… sorry. Here’s some more information.

 2. Fire, Dublin

FIRE Restaurant and Lounge - The Mansion House FIRE Restaurant and Lounge - The Mansion House

Fire promises a memorable dining experience set against a historic dining room backdrop. They do Christmas well, in fairness to them, and there’ll be an unbeatable festive atmosphere – plus, if you can’t make the afternoon sitting, there’s also dinner.

More info here.

3. Pura Vida, Galway

Pura Vida / Facebook Pura Vida / Facebook / Facebook

Pura Vida is tops for Christmassy brunches due to its prime people-spotting location – right over the Spanish Arch.

You’ll want to wrap up good and warm if you’re sitting outdoors, but that’s no surprise to anyone living in the Wesht during winter.

4. Castle Cafe, Blackrock Castle, Cork

Castle Cafe Cork Castle Cafe Cork

A relative newcomer on the Cork brunch scene, a real find down by the harbour. All the food is homemade and sourced locally where possible, plus there are gluten-free options available for coeliacs or with intolerances. More info on the menu here.

Plus, you really can’t beat the surroundings, as anyone from the Real Capital will tell you.

5. Whitefriar Grill, Dublin

whitefriargrill whitefriargrill

Whitefriar are organising a deadly Christmas deal this year – enjoy brunch with them, then head next door to their sister outlet Bow Lane.

The short hop between the two means you can change scenery but not travel far at all. Result. More details here.

6. 56 Central, Galway

56 Central 56 Central

Did someone say BRUNCH DJs? Wait, we did. This place is hip, which means of course that they offer various paleo bits and pieces on the menu as well as top notch coffee. Have a gander at their Christmas menu right here.

Did we forget anywhere? Let us know in the comments.

If you’re going to grab a delicious brunch over Christmas remember that AIB Android users can now use their phone to make Contactless payments under €30. AIB has launched Android Pay – the first smartphone-based payment app available in Ireland. Head over to AIB to find out more. 

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