Smokin Bones Castle Market

In Dublin 2, Smokin Bones Castle Market brings a taste of Stateside barbecue to the city with easy-going charm. Founded in 2014 after extensive research in the States, it leans into the barbecue lifestyle: long smoke, deep flavour and the kind of patience that rewards. Casual and relaxed, it is made for gatherings of friends who like to share, compare sauces and linger.

The cooking is all about smoke, sweet heat and char. Baby back ribs arrive lacquered in barbecue sauce, while the chargrilled chicken thigh plays well with house sauces. Pork belly lollipops bring bite-sized indulgence and wings or honey glazed tenders land with a satisfying stickiness. Burgers cover the classics, from the Smokin Bones Burger to a piled-high pulled pork burger, and there is room for a crisp Caesar salad between the richer notes.

Sides are a celebration in themselves, from BBQ baked red skin potatoes to fries that go fully loaded with pulled pork and cheese. There are BBQ nachos for the table and a roll call of signature sauces, including Thomason Whiskey BBQ and Sticky Fingers Honey BBQ, to fine-tune each mouthful. It is unfussy, generous and geared towards good times and full bellies.

Round up the crew, follow the aroma, and settle in for smoke, sauce and smiles. Pull up a chair, dig in, and go the whole hog.