Erasmus Explorer Dublin

Guide to Food & Drink in Dublin

Dublin has a vibrant food scene, but eating out can be expensive for international students. This guide highlights the best cheap food spots in Dublin for Erasmus students, including budget restaurants, supermarkets, takeaway spots, and student-friendly cafés near major universities like Trinity College, UCD and TU Dublin.

Budget Eats in Dublin for Students

Dublin has an amazing food scene, but eating out can quickly become expensive for students. Fortunately, there are plenty of budget-friendly food spots across Dublin city centre that offer filling meals at affordable prices. Whether you’re looking for a quick burrito, late-night takeaway, or cheap pizza with friends, these budget eats in Dublin are popular with Erasmus students and locals alike.
Boojum Mexican Grill located in Dublin City

Boojum

  • Boojum is one of the most popular cheap eats in Dublin, especially among students. Known for its large burritos and fresh Mexican ingredients, it’s a great option if you're looking for a filling meal under €10. With multiple locations across Dublin city centre, it’s a convenient stop for students studying near Trinity College or TU Dublin.
  •  Average price: €8–€10         
  • Locations: Abbey Street, Kevin Street, Smithfield
  • Nearby:Locations 5–10 mins walk from Trinity College Dublin and TU Dublin Grangegorman/Aungier Street
  •  Tip: Watch for student discount days and loyalty rewards.
Zaytoon Persian Restaurant, Dublin city

Zaytoon

  • Zaytoon is one of Dublin’s most popular late-night cheap eats, especially among students and people out in the city after a night out. Known for its generous portions of kebabs, falafel wraps, and loaded fries, it’s a reliable option when you want something filling and affordable. Located near Camden Street and Parliament Street, Zaytoon is a go-to spot for students in Dublin city centre looking for quick, satisfying food at a reasonable price.
  • Average price: €10–€12
  •  Locations: Camden Street, Temple Bar
  •  Nearby: Walkable from Trinity College and short Luas ride from TU Dublin
  •  Tip: Late-night favourite among students.
Apache Pizza Takeaway, Dublin City

Apache Pizza

  • Apache Pizza is a well-known takeaway chain across Ireland and a favourite among students looking for cheap pizza deals in Dublin. Their menu includes a wide range of pizzas, sides, and meal deals that are perfect for sharing with friends. With frequent student offers and late opening hours, Apache Pizza is a convenient and affordable option when you want a quick takeaway after studying or socialising in Dublin city centre.
  • Average price: €6–€9 per person
  • Locations: All over Dublin (Camden St, Dorset St, Rathmines, Drumcondra)
  • Nearby: Close to TU Dublin, DCU, and UCD campuses
  • Tip: Check the app for student meal combos and lunchtime offers.

Best Supermarkets in Dublin for Students

Buying groceries is one of the best ways for students to save money while living in Dublin. Fortunately, the city has a wide range of supermarkets offering affordable food, fresh produce, and student-friendly meal options. From budget chains like Aldi and Lidl to larger stores like Tesco and Dunnes Stores, these supermarkets in Dublin are great for students looking to keep grocery costs low.
Lidl Supermarket Dublin City

Lidl

  • Lidl is another budget-friendly supermarket chain in Dublin that is popular with students. It offers affordable groceries, bakery items, and fresh produce at competitive prices. Lidl also frequently runs weekly deals that make it easy for students to buy quality food at lower prices.
  • Best for: Budget groceries, snacks, and bread
  • Locations: Talbot Street (near Trinity), Thomas Street (near TU Dublin), Rathmines (near UCD)
  • Nearby: Close to Trinity, TU Dublin, and UCD
  • Tip: Watch for weekly special offers and student discounts through the Lidl Plus app.
Aldi Supermarket Dublin City

Aldi

  • Aldi is one of the cheapest supermarkets in Dublin and a popular choice for students looking to save money on groceries. Known for its affordable prices and weekly special offers, Aldi offers a wide range of fresh produce, snacks, and ready meals. It’s ideal for students who want to keep their weekly grocery bill low.
  • Best for: Cheap basics and student meal ingredients
  • Locations: Parnell Street (near Trinity/TU Dublin), Rathmines, Drumcondra (near DCU)
  • Nearby: Trinity, TU Dublin, DCU
  • Tip: Aldi’s own-brand products are excellent quality for the price.
Tesco Supermarket Dublin City

Tesco

  • Tesco is one of the largest supermarket chains in Ireland and has many locations across Dublin. While slightly more expensive than Aldi or Lidl, Tesco offers a wider variety of products, meal deals, and convenient city centre locations that make it a reliable option for students.
  • Best for: Convenience and variety
  • Locations: Dawson Street (Trinity), Camden Street (TU Dublin), Stillorgan (UCD), Drumcondra (DCU)
  • Nearby: All major Dublin universities
  • Tip: Get a Tesco Clubcard — prices drop significantly for members.