What’s on this week – other than the Six Nations, that is
Dublin eats
If you’re seeking some new food inspiration in the capital this weekend, there are new and recent openings to keep your belly and heart full. In Dublin, delicious sandwich experts Tír Deli are opening a new premises on Hatch Street, just a stone’s throw from Harcourt Street and the Iveagh Gardens. Their hearty take on the classics will have you drooling for the rest of the day. On Monday, 07 February, 100% of their proceeds will be going to Focus Ireland. So now your Monday lunch break can give back, too.
Just off Nassau Street, at Setanta Place, experience the sister venture of the iconic Sheen Falls; Library Street restaurant. The casual wine bar & restaurant is located within Trinity Townhouse, and is an ideal date night destination. Cross the river and continue on your journey of culinary exploration by trying out the new vendor at The Bernard Shaw’s Eatyard. Pasta Box is the perfect spot for any Italian-food aficionado. You can choose your pasta, your sauce, and some toppings to make a delicious and unique combination catered to your tastes. Buon appetito!
Entertainment
For a musical interlude, fan favourites The Coronas are playing at Black Box in Galway on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. Tickets are still available, starting at €39.50. Nathan Carter takes to the stage in Waterford’s Theatre Royal on Saturday, with tickets available from €39.50. And if you’re staying in this Friday night, RTÉ are showing this year’s Eurovision hopefuls, and with audiences back in business, it’s sure to be an entertaining watch. Eurosong on the Late Late show airs at 9.25pm.
Walk about
One thing lockdown did was confine us all to our home’s immediate vicinity – remember the 2km rule? As a result, we probably realised we had been taking our towns and cities for granted. Fall back in love with your city and stretch those legs with a free walking tour. On Saturday, Unearthed Tours’ Free Walking Tour of Dublin starts at the Wolfe Tone sculpture. It takes approximately two and a half hours, and sets off at 10am. Register here.
In the People’s Republic of Cork, a tour departs from Daunt Square at 12pm every Saturday, including 05 February. You’ll hit highlights like the English Market and St. Finbarr’s Cathedral, but also local gems like the Butter Museum and all the little laneways in the shadows. Email freewalkingtourscork@gmail.com or call 0830371559 for information and bookings. If you’re feeling inspired after seeing Kenneth Branagh’s Belfast, explore the titular city by foot for free. The Belfast Free Walking Tour operates twice daily, at 11am and 2.30pm, departing from City Hall.
With any of these tours, it’s worth remembering they’re generally operated by expert local guides, who often won’t be paid. If you expect you’ll enjoy your tour, it’s worth packing a few extra euros to tip at the end.