Top Lunch Spots Near ISI Dublin for International Students

Studying English at ISI Dublin means being right in the heart of Dublin city centre, surrounded by great cafés and lunch spots it’s perfect for a quick bite between classes.☕🍴

When I arrived last month to study English at ISI Dublin, my first question was simple: where can I eat quickly and cheaply between classes?

As I started exploring the area around the school, I quickly realised how well ISI Dublin is located📍. Right in the city centre, it gives you access to plenty of affordable food options just a few minutes’ walk away. Whether you’re taking a General English course, an Erasmus+ programme or English classes as an adult, there’s always somewhere nearby to grab lunch.

Here are some of my favourite spots, all located close to the school👇

Blas Café (The Chocolate Factory)
Less than a 5-minute walk from ISI Dublin, Blas Café is a place that’s very popular with locals. Located inside the Chocolate Factory on King’s Inn Street, it has a creative atmosphere that really reflects Dublin’s artistic side.🎨

They serve homemade, seasonal food. I personally recommend the chicken sandwich on sourdough for €8.50 or the daily salad for €9🥪.

It’s a great place to have lunch between classes and practise your English with other international students.

Tucano Coffee
Tucano Coffee is probably my favourite place to go after class. Very close to ISI Dublin, it has an international atmosphere inspired by Latin American culture.🌎

You’ll often see other ISI students there, which makes it a great place to socialise after lessons. The prices are affordable, with avocado toast starting at €7🥑 and fresh smoothie bowls around €8. It’s ideal for lunch or even for studying in a relaxed environment.

Dunnes Stores Food Hall (Ilac Centre)
If you’re on a tighter budget, the Dunnes Stores Food Hall in the Ilac Centre is a great option just a few minutes from ISI Dublin.💸

You’ll find a wide range of meals between €5 and €8, which is perfect for students. The service is quick⏱️, making it very convenient between classes, and you can also do your grocery shopping at the same time.🛒

ISI Cafeteria ❤️

If you are already a student at ISI Dublin, you probably know the lovely ISI Cafeteria, run by Maija. It’s a popular spot among students and a great place to relax between classes.

You can find a variety of cookies, muffins, snacks, sandwiches and coffees ; perfect for a quick and affordable lunch without leaving the school.

What makes this place special is the atmosphere. You can sit down in the cafeteria, share a meal with other students, and easily start conversations. It’s a great way to meet new people and practise your English in a relaxed environment.

Make the Most of Lunchtime in Dublin

The best part about studying English in Dublin is how easy it is to explore the city between classes🌆. Whether you want to grab a takeaway and eat by the River Liffey or sit down with classmates in a cosy café, these local spots help you experience real Dublin life while practicing your English with locals and other students.

In addition to all the cafés and lunch spots, the school also organises regular activities. For example, students can join a Friday hike to Howth with Tony 🥾, or take part in weekend trips to the Cliffs of Moher and other destinations around Ireland.

These activities are a great way to practice your English outside the classroom while discovering the country.

If you’re ready to start your own Dublin adventure, ISI Dublin offers a range of General English, Erasmus+, and accommodation options to help you study comfortably in the heart of the city. Learn English in Dublin, meet new friends, and enjoy the best cafés the city has to offer, all just steps from your classroom.