Looking for the perfect date night in Dublin? Start here

In life, there are many things you will hunt for until you find the perfect fit. A husband, a wife, a dog, a job, a little black dress, a house, a pair of jeans and, of course, the ultimate date night restaurant.

Finding that special place where the food is unforgettable, the atmosphere is just right and the experience leaves you both wanting more is no small feat.

Date nights deserve to be special. Whether it’s a first date, an anniversary celebration or just a reason to dress up and enjoy great food, the setting matters. You want somewhere with ambience, quality food and romance mixed with excitement.

Enter Hellfire – a great spot in Dublin for couples looking to elevate their evening plans.

Located in the heart of the city on Westmoreland Street, Hellfire is the kind of restaurant that makes an impression. Its name alone suggests an evening that’s fiery, bold and full of passion – precisely what you want for a night out with someone special. From the moment you step inside, the lively yet intimate atmosphere sets the tone for an evening of indulgence. Dim lighting, rustic interiors and an unmistakable buzz in the air create the perfect backdrop for great conversation and even better food.

The menu is expansive, with various Italian, Mexican and European influences. Start with something shareable, like Tacos Mignon with charred beef, mozzarella and guacamole or creamy burrata with roasted fig, honey and balsamic. For mains, the 10oz smoked rib eye steak with padron peppers and chimichurri is a standout, or you can’t go wrong with the seabass served with garlic potatoes and roasted veg. And for the grand finale, let yourselves be swept away by the rich, velvety flavours of the baked berry cheesecake because no date night is complete without dessert.

Dining at Hellfire is an experience in itself, and Chef Brian Bernal says the creation of a memorable one was key to the menu design. “My ethos is all about bringing together quality, creativity and a passion for flavour,” he explains. “I aim to create an experience that goes beyond just serving a meal; it’s about making each dish memorable and unique. We focus on using the best ingredients, cooked with care and precision, while offering a menu that combines bold, exciting flavours and innovative cooking techniques. I want guests to feel like they’re not just eating, but enjoying a moment that’s flavourful, fun and full of character.”

Meanwhile, sourcing the best ingredients has been imperative for the restaurant. “We buy premium Irish meats from our trusted butcher, Robinson Meats,” Brian says. “Our seafood is sustainably sourced through partnerships with suppliers such as Kish Fish and Beshoffs of Howth, ensuring freshness and quality. We also prioritise locally grown produce, collaborating with Irish farmers to incorporate fresh, seasonal flavours into our menu. This commitment to quality and sustainability is at the core of our culinary philosophy.”

The staff at Hellfire are knowledgeable and passionate, always happy to recommend the perfect wine pairing or share insights about different cuts of meat. The service is warm yet refined, ensuring that your evening flows smoothly. Whether you’re in the mood for a deep, full-bodied red to complement a perfectly cooked steak or a crisp white to pair with seafood, their selection will not disappoint.

A steak fan? Well, you won’t be disappointed. As Brian mentioned, every cut is carefully selected from trusted Irish farms, ensuring superior quality and freshness. Using the time-honoured technique of charcoal grilling, the chefs create deep, smoky flavours that elevate every bite.

Whether you prefer a rare, melt-in-your-mouth experience or a perfectly medium fillet, you’ll leave satisfied.

And what cut does the chef recommend? “Our 36oz Tomahawk Sharing Steak is a standout choice,” Brian advises. “This generous cut is perfect for sharing, offering a rich, smoky flavour from our Hornos HBE charcoal oven. It’s served with both chimichurri and peppercorn sauce, as well as three delicious sides: crispy fries, creamy mashed potatoes and a salad. Make sure to pair it with a bottle of Château Puynard 2020, a Bordeaux wine blend of merlot and cabernet sauvignon. Located in the Côtes de Blaye region on Bordeaux’s right bank, this estate is owned by an Irish couple, adding a special Irish connection to your wine experience. The wine offers rich, dark fruit flavours with hints of vanilla and toasted oak, making it a perfect match for our steak.”

So, if you’re looking for your next date night destination, consider the search over. Hellfire has everything you need for an evening filled with delicious food, great wine and an atmosphere that sets the stage for a fabulous evening.

Now all you have to do is sit back, enjoy and let the sparks fly.

Located in the heart of Dublin, Hellfire specialises in premium, locally sourced cuts of meat, expertly charcoal-grilled to perfection. With a focus on high-quality ingredients and a lively, vibrant atmosphere, visit Hellfire to experience a welcoming space and enjoy great food.