What is Travellers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
O'Connell's Howth
Review
About
Travellers' Choice
2024
Features
CUISINES
Irish, Bar, Seafood, European, Pub, Gastropub
Meal types
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Brunch, After-hours, Drinks
Special Diets
Vegetarian friendly, Vegan options, Gluten free options
FEATURES
Accepts Credit Cards
Free Wifi
Full Bar
Highchairs Available
Live Music
Outdoor Seating
Reservations
Seating
Serves Alcohol
Table Service
Television
Wheelchair Accessible
Location
Does this restaurant offer free wifi?
Save this restaurant
Hours
Closed now
• Opens at 12:30 PM
Sunday
12:30 - 23:59
Monday
12:30 - 23:59
Tuesday
12:30 - 23:59
Wednesday
12:30 - 23:59
Thursday
12:30 - 23:59
Friday
12:30 - 23:59
Saturday
12:30 - 23:59
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4.5
1,011 reviews
Excellent
697
Very good
207
Average
62
Poor
24
Terrible
21
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eoin
Howth3 contributions
Nov 2024 • friends
If you're in the mood for comfort food with a unique twist, a visit to O' Connells is a must. This cosy, inviting pub offers a perfect blend of hearty, rich flavours that will leave you craving more.
The stars of the show are, of course, the bar tender Paddy and his trusty assistant, waitress Caoimhe followed closely by the incredibe food. Caoimhe greeted us with a warm smile and made us feel immediately welcome setting the tone for the entire meal. We all had the chowder to start followed by dublins best wings! Paddy was quick with a joke and story about the local life. Would highly recommend to all visiting Howth.
Written 27 November 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Emma H
1 contribution
Dec 2024 • family
Best spot in Dublin for Wings! O’Connells is always my first stop when visiting Dublin. Staff are always so warm & welcoming and food is top notch, they just rolled out a new menu (but still includes their famous wings) and the cheese starter is unreal! 100% recommend to anyone visiting.
Written 3 January 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Wams
Dublin6 contributions
Feb 2024 • couples
Good ambience, had lovely starters of wings and mussels. Very tasty and good portions. Partner ordered steak which was cooked well, pepper sauce was more like gravy though, no cream in it. I ordered prawn pil pil... very disappointed as was more like a starter portion, very little oil, chilli, garlic. On hindsight, should have sent it back as not worth €25, more like €14. Would go back but not for the pepper sauce or prawn pil pil
Written 4 February 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ohschopper
Preetz63 contributions
Aug 2023 • family
Despite it being a public holiday, we got a table and ate fish and chips. The food was good, but it's a shame that the waiters and waitresses were relatively unfriendly. From ordering to serving to paying, not a single friendly word was spoken - although it was full, but not packed. It's a shame, and we've experienced much nicer and friendlier experiences on all other occasions in the last few days.
Written 7 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Fay's Ireland
Galway6 contributions
Aug 2024 • business
We were a table of 11, a mixed tour group. When it came to getting the bill we were informed that it couldn’t be split. I apologised but informed her that we hadn’t been informed of this, she said it was printed clearly on the menu. I completely understand that it can be a pain to split a bill, but inform a large group especially when we booked ahead. The section of the bar we were seated in was very dark, we all had to use the torch button on our phones to read the menu. She went to get her manager, Mia. It was hilarious watching Mia and five of her colleagues searching for a menu that stated the bill can’t be split. This whole production took 17 mins, the bill would’ve been split by this time. I’m a tour operator and I bring groups to this pub frequently, I won’t be bothering again.
Written 4 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
anne o'connell
Dear D9360DCjuliac, thank you for review. If you are a tour operartor and you have as you say been to the pub regularly, then you should be well aware of our policy, as it is clearly stated on the menu. I think you will find that the "hilarious" 17 minute "production" as you call it, was as a result of your behaviour towards the staff, and the length of time it took to deal with you. You said yourself it can be a pain to split bills, and the fact is that it clearly states on the menu that bills for large groups cannot be split. If you are a tour operator, you should be aware of these things before you bring a group somewhere and cause a scene, because you are unprepared. As a tour operator, it is your responsibility to be aware of things that may affect your party. Maybe next time you bring a large group somewhere, check in advance, before you put staff, or your group in an awkward position like this again. Finally, I'm sure you are well aware how reviews affect business, particularly as you are in the tourism industry, I'm sure you know how important reviews are and how damaging they can be. So regardless of how you feel about the situation, your review is extremely unfair and damaging, as your issue is with a policy which is clearly displayed on our menus, and outside on the menu board, it is not our fault you failed to read this. Im sure if a member of your tour group put up a negative review about your tours because they didn't read the terms and conditions of your tours correctly, you would understand where we are coming from. If you would like to discuss this further you can call me on 018395087 or you can email on penmurph99@outlook.com I hope business is good for you. Regards, all of us at O'Connells
Written 4 August 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Rebecca C
19 contributions
Dec 2022 • family
Arrived at 12.25 was greeted by a very rude waitress who said they opened at 12:30 without lifting her head whilst cleaning an outside table. They opened the door at 12:35 with a large queue outside in the rain. We walked in and where seated. We where a table of 6 adults. We where sat at a table at the toilets. Even though there where tonnes of empty tables. We where handed our menus and five minutes later the same waitress that was outside walked by. I said ‘we are ready to order’. She was beyond rude and turned her head whilst saying I’m busy you will have to wait. I said ‘that’s rude, it costs nothing to be nice.’ She stormed over to our table and said ‘what’s your problem?’ I had to ask her to leave and get a manager as I was no longer going to talk to her. Another young waitress approached and I explained what happened. Without any sign of an apology she said the girl works here for 6 months and has never had a complaint. I pointed out ‘well, she’s had her first!’ After waiting an age we got over priced food that was sub par. Plenty more delightful, cheaper and amazing service restaurants in Howth. Avoid this place at all costs!!!! It was extremely embarrassing for my guests who travelled from France.
Written 27 December 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
anne o
Hi Rebecca, thank you for your review! I really do hope you read this reply, so we can set the record straight! Firstly you were extremely rude from the moment you arrived, the girl who was dealing with you was in tears after the way you spoke to her! You arrived before we opened and expected to be let in!? Do you open early in your job? It takes time ti be ready, hence opening hours! You arrived without a booking, and demanded a nice table!? It’s Christmas week, the busiest week of the year for pubs who haven’t been open properly for Christmas in nearly 3 years, and you arrive with 6 people and expect to get a “nice”table without booking? And you point out all the empty tables, yes they were empty because the people who had booked had not arrived yet! Sometimes I’m at a loss as I just don’t understand who some people think, and expect everything! You were exceptionally rude to both girl who dealt with you, raising your voice is not acceptable, you should learn to have some respect for people who are working hard 10 hour days all over Christmas, and treat them like human beings! We should have told your party to leave. I note you tend to write a lot of 1 star reviews. If I had your number I would call you directly! You can contact me anytime on 018395087, Simon is my name and I would be happy to explain the above directly! I hope you enjoy the rest of your Christmas, I would suggest booking a table at the next establishment you visit!
Written 28 December 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jelena M
5 contributions
Jul 2023 • family
Great dining experience. We were taken to our table promptly. The waitresses taking care of us, made sure any any questions we had and our dinner was served very quickly.
The meals we ordered were delicious, but the chowder by far is the best we had ever tasted!
Strongly recommend visiting.
Written 10 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Travelling Lightly
London17 contributions
Aug 2023 • couples
We went here because of reviews. Dont believe them, chowder soup was stone cold and filled with white onion. Fish and chips were skin on McCains fries, peas were from a tin filled with water and cold and the service was simply hostile. All in all, a poor customer experience and wd never return.
Written 3 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
anne o'connell
Hi PJ and Eb, thank you for taking the time to write your review. Firstly all our food is fresh, prepped daily and not “out of a can” ! Our chips are certainly not Mcain, they are however skin on. You can see from all our other reviews regarding our chowder, that it’s one of our most popular dishes. Your own reviews of other businesses seem to show a pattern of 1 stars! Best wishes, hopefully you enjoy the next place you go!
Written 3 August 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Elias M
1 contribution
Nov 2024 • couples
I recently had the pleasure of dining at O'Connell's, and I must say, the experience was outstanding! Our server, Ivan, was exceptional—attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable about the menu. He made great recommendations, ensuring our meal was perfect from start to finish. The atmosphere was cozy, and the food was absolutely delicious. Highly recommend O'Connell's, especially if you’re lucky enough to be served by Ivan!
Written 25 November 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sweetie22
2 contributions
Jun 2022 • none
I waited at the door for 20 min before a member of staff approached us. It was Tuesday night it was not extremely busy. First time there, the girl just pointed at the back and said "theres a table down there" to an area we could not see. Seated in dirty table that needed to be wiped, I sat in a uncomfortable wooden cafe chair that was wobbly that felt unsafe (you should invest in some nice chairs). Ordered the cheese burger and chicken goujons and chips. The burger was dry with no flavour and had nothing in it only the slice of cheese and the chips came in a small metal pot ( that had around 20 skinny fries) . I do not eat salad so I asked for none and the plate looked bare. Chicken goujons smelt odd so my daughter didn't eat them, The burger was €17 and goujons €13!! with 2 drinks €36 Had to ask for the bill 4 times, it was extremely disappointing,
Written 8 June 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Billybutton
46 contributions
May 2022 • friends
We were a table of four who visited on a Tuesday evening. The waiting and bar staff were lovely. Friendly and efficient. The food was dreadful. I had a burger which was like cardboard. It was served with chips and a ramekin of horrible sweet chilli sauce. The burger was priced at around €17 and it was worse than one you would get out of a chipper for half the price.
The Guinness was delicious.
Written 17 May 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
anne o
Hi Billybutton, thank you for taking the time to write your review. We are very sorry that you did not enjoy your burger, but are delighted that you did enjoy the Guinness and that you found the service to be friendly and efficient. Our burgers are all homemade with 100% Irish lean beef mince from our local butchers. We cook all our burgers to order, but cook all our burgers well done in accordance with FSAI guidelines, we also make our own relish which was served on the side. We would be delighted to see you return, even if only for the excellent Guinness, and friendly service. Thanks again, all of us at O'Connells.
Written 19 May 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jonathan B
1 contribution
Nov 2024 • solo
Had an amazing experience at O'Connell's! The atmosphere was lively, and the food was absolutely delicious. Special shoutout to Ivan, our server—he was incredibly attentive, friendly, and made great recommendations. His service truly elevated our visit. Will definitely be back for more great food and top-notch service.
Written 25 November 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Carol R
1 contribution
Sept 2021 • family
I went here for lunch last week with my son. The standards regarding quality of food and value for money have dropped substantially since the last time I visited the restaurant. The bacon and cheese fries we ordered did not live up to expectations for the price we paid. The portion was extremely small and badly presented. The only positive thing from my trip to the restaurant this time round was the quality of service from the waiting staff who were extremely pleasant and attentive.
Written 25 September 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
suzanne
10 contributions
Aug 2024 • couples
I visited o connells with my partner over the weekend. We headed up to howth for dinner and some drinks on Saturday and had an amazing time. From the moment you arrive at o connells the staff make you feel at home. We had the beef and guiness pie and haddock and crab skillet for dinner which were both delicious! After our dinner we stayed and listened to the live music which started at 9:30. The live music added so much to our evening out, great atmosphere in the pub!
We will definitely be returning for another live music session another Saturday evening
Written 4 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
FrequentFlier823722
1 contribution
Aug 2023 • family
We were encouraged to stop in this beautiful town of Howth by a friend. We selected O'Connells from a list on line. We began our dinner with the seafood stew which was excellent. It was a hearty stew with loads of fish. The flavor was amazing without a strong fishy tast. We followed up with me ordering the grilled chicken Ceasar Sald and my wife with fish and chips. The salad was wonderful with rasher bacon added for full flavor. For the F&C the fish was sweet with a very light crust that was not overpowering. Fries were crisp on the outside and not greasy. Overall just fabulous.
It is a touristy bar and states this on the award plaques outside but it seems locals were here also. Overall our experience here was excellent. I would highly recommend a visit to O'Connells if you're in the area.
Written 6 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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