100 great small shops around Ireland

Coffee and cakes Céilí Carlingford, Co Louth 'Gather round, stay a while', reads the legend on the window of Kayleigh Murphy's Céilí in Carlingford, which opened in May. Murphy had her eye on the building, which dates back to the 1700s and is at the heart of the village, for years. The Scandi feel of the interior — contemporary yet timeless — is a nod to Carlingford's Viking history. Coffee comes from Koffy in Jonesborough, and the cream cheese cinnamon rolls and cruffins — perhaps apple crumble or strawberry and white chocolate — from Gullion in Armagh are hugely popular. Patisserie includes tarts of lemon and lime, and almond and mixed berry. Céilí doubles up as an events space too, hosting Irish classes and arts and crafts workshops. @ceili.carlingford Mark Lynch of Adare Grocer © Kirsty Lyons Adare Grocer Adare, Co Limerick Anna Coffey-Lynch and her husband Mark Lynch opened Adare Grocer in July 2025. Coffey-Lynch is a pastry chef and chocolatier who previously worked at Adare Manor; Lynch is a long-time front-of-house professional. A steady stream of customers stop by for Calendar coffee, peanut caramel brownies, pistachio teacakes, and focaccia sandwiches; this summer the Cáis na Tíre quiche with hot honey on the side is a big hit. There are a few seats inside and more in the garden area, and a small retail offering of tempting pantry products, local eggs and the like. Sourdough bread and savoury Danishes — 'Anything you have to get up in the middle of the night to make,' says Coffey-Lynch — come from the local 061 Bakery. @adaregrocer My Little Flower Market Street, Galway Former Connacht and Ireland rugby player Matt Healy opened his first coffee shop in Oughterard, Co Galway, four years ago and this year he has opened his second, this time in the City of Tribes. Matt sources his coffee direct from Alcidez Avendano in Colombia, allowing the farmer to set his price at a level sustainable for him and his family — something that's highly unusual in the cut-throat coffee business. Cakes and sweet treats come from The Lán Kitchen in Monivea and Mór Bakes in Tuam, with The Happy Tummy in Westport supplying cacao sourdough and banana pecan cake, which My Little Flower sells by the slice. 'The cookies — milk chocolate with white chocolate and biscoff and white chocolate — are always in demand,' says Healy. 'When they arrive on Friday morning, there's usually a queue of people waiting, asking, 'Are they here yet?'' @mylittleflowercoffee Loverboy cafe Loverboy Clontarf, Dublin Tiernan McCann and Maeve Redmond say they 'picked up a few tricks' working in hospitality in Australia, which might explain why their Loverboy Cafe attached to the Síos an Bóthar hub in Clontarf was such an instant hit when it opened back in February. For the first couple of months, McCann was still working full-time as a cabinet maker and helping out at weekends before admitting he was needed by Loverboy. The pair serve coffee from Waterford roasters Blue Butterfly alongside brownies, banana bread and cookies made in-house. But it is the humdinger sandwiches that have social media all abuzz. McCann says he's never managed to finish one of the chicken sandwiches — fresh focaccia packed with poached chicken, lettuce and cucumber doused in ranch dressing made in-house from scratch. Other popular options are the duck banh mi and the pork ciabatta with prosciutto, peach chilli jam, mozzarella, lemon aioli and radicchio. Oof. @loverboyireland Read more The Fab 50: Ireland's best places to stay in 2026 - from a revamped motel and rainforest stay to a cabin that feels 'like a hug' Banco Stoneybatter, Dublin 7 First there was Grano, then there was A Fianco, and now we have Banco, the latest addition to Roberto Mungo's mini Stoneybatter Italian food empire. As you'd expect from the people responsible for Dublin's best pasta restaurant, the new bakery, coffee shop and pasta store is a mecca for Italian food fans, offering coffee and pastries in the morning, stuffed focaccia sandwiches and Roman-style pizza at lunchtime, and all manner of good things, including a sublime tiramisu, to take home. @banco_dublin Mo Chlann's Callum and Bronagh Leonard Mo Chlann Bridge Street, Donegal Brother-and-sister team Callum and Bronagh Leonard opened Mo Chlann — My Family — in what was the Blue Stack bar on Bridge Street opposite the courthouse in Donegal town in the summer of 2025 with the intention of building a sense of community in their home town. One year on, they have scarcely drawn breath. When they bought the building, it came with a drinks licence, which they didn't want to waste, so they offer their customers not only their first drink of the day — coffee — but on Friday and Saturday evenings, there are cocktails and wine, too. The coffee comes from Calendar in Galway, and they have a rotating list of Irish guest roasters. All the baked goods come from talented local home bakers, and their gluten-free selection is particularly good. Protein balls and cakes such as the photogenic pear and pistachio are a big draw. @mochlann.coffeebar Dave Rowley and Siobhán Ward of Bearú Beag Bearú Beag New Ross, Co Wexford Earlier this year, Dave Rowley and Siobhán Ward opened Bearú Beag to complement their existing and hugely popular Bearú cafe and restaurant. Three doors up from the original premises, Bearú Beag gives baker Claire Griffin a dedicated production kitchen with proofing cabinet, and serves takeaway coffees and bakes. Cinnamon rolls, protein balls, brownies and gluten-free options are perennially popular, with summery blackcurrant-and-vanilla and fig leaf creme patissiere choux buns a new seasonal favourite. For those who prefer something savoury, the parmesan fondue brioche with cherry tomato and olive, or the ham hock and Coolattin cheddar jambon are a must-order, best eaten at one of the window seats looking out at the world going by and followed with a cup of McCabe's coffee. @bearubeag Happy Out x Together Academy Custom House Quay, Dublin It's been three years since the first Happy Out x Together Academy collaboration opened at The Baths in Dún Laoghaire. That first venture has been a roaring success and so, when the opportunity came to join forces again in a new building at Swan Leisure's new watersports hub — HQ20 Watersports — in the Dublin Docklands close to the Jeanie Johnston, Brian Hanratty of Happy Out and Therese Coveney of the Together Academy did not hesitate. As a not-for-profit business, they felt the ethos of Swan Leisure was a good fit with their own. Watersports on offer at the hub include canoeing, kayaking, Katakanus, rowing, hydrobikes and currachs. At a time when the vast majority of young adults with Down syndrome are not in paid employment, Happy Out x Together Academy is a beacon of fully integrated employment and, as you will know if you have visited the Dún Laoghaire cafe, a place which emanates positivity. 'The idea,' says Hanratty, 'is that from the moment you come in, you deal with someone with Down syndrome, whether that's ordering your coffee or paying at the till. There are always two or three people with Down syndrome on the floor. 'Together, we're proving that inclusion isn't just good for society — it's good for business, creating a workplace that values ability, builds confidence, and enriches the experience for our staff, customers, and community.' The cafe serves Roasted Brown coffee and offers a full breakfast and lunch menu. At breakfast, the avocado toast and pancake stacks are the top choices, while the toasties, including Hamazing and The Big Cheese — now offered with nduja and honey as an alternative to the original caramelised onions — have acquired cult status. All the baked goods come from Happy Out's own bakery in Dún Laoghaire, where Gráinne O'Higgins knocks out cookies, brownie bombs and a wonderful chocolate Guinness cake. Other favourites include a Tunisian orange cake, ricciarelli, and a delicious lemon poppy seed sponge. @happyoutcafe Baker51 Ballina, Co Mayo Will Julie and Michael O'Hara perhaps be tempted to rename their bustling cafe and bakery Baker26 in light of Mayo's historic All-Ireland win? Michael's grandfather started the original bakery business in Foxford on the back of a winning sweepstakes ticket, and 75 years on, the family has branched out with a cafe on Ballina's Market Lane, serving Root & Branch coffee from Belfast. The cruffins are a signature — Dubai chocolate, lemon and salted caramel being just some of the flavours on offer — and the choux buns, such as the Blas na hÉireann-winning lemon and poppy seed, have legions of fans. @baker51_ Baked and Bottled Ashtown, Dublin By the Royal Canal in Ashtown, Korean pastry chef Eojin Lee has been knocking out delights such as key lime pie, ham and kimcheese pain Suisse, K-BBQ sausage rolls, matcha cream and strawberry Danishes, flourless chocolate cakes, chocolate pecan cookies, almond croissants and more since the start of the year. That's alongside a full daytime brunch menu. A few evenings a week, there's charcuterie, cheese and wine, all of the quality you'd expect from Thibaut Harang of Piglet, Lee's husband. In a part of the city woefully short of good places to eat and drink, Baked and Bottled is a very welcome new addition. @bakedandbottled_dublin Milligram's Dave and Louise Smyth Milligram Wine Street, Sligo Dave and Louise Smyth are behind the Full Circle roastery and Ebb & Flow coffee shops in Clontarf and on Camden Street in Dublin. They opened Milligram in Sligo in 2019 because they wanted Sligo to have the same standard of coffee that was available in Dublin, and the town has shown its appreciation by taking Milligram to its heart. The couple have moved to Sligo and Milligram is now, they say, the jewel in their crown, busy seven days a week, serving toasties and baked goods. Its signature bake is a brookie, a hybrid of a brownie and a cookie. @milligram.coffee Sourdo'Farrell's Keith O'Farrell with his partner Enya © Don Moloney Sourdo'Farrell Ennis, Co Clare Keith O'Farrell started his business on his own in 2021, offering handmade pastries and sourdough bread, and now runs it with his partner Enya. Over the intervening years, he's acquired a great reputation for coffee — he serves Anam from the Burren and Carrow from Sligo — and now employs 16 people. The shop at St Michael's Villas had been vacant for 13 years before he took it over. There's invariably a queue outside, and it's become a social spot for the town, seven days a week. From an off-site kitchen, he supplies bread around the county to cafes and restaurants, and delivers bread first and, later in the morning, decadent pastries to the shop in two Japanese vans. The most popular bakes are the cinnamon bun, lemon coconut Danish and O'Farrell's riff on a bakewell, made with croissant dough. His sourdough is made mainly with organic Irish flour, and his personal favourite is the purple wheat, though the classic white is the biggest seller. @sourdo_farrell Dede Cellar & Pantry Baltimore, Co Cork The latest addition to Ahmet Dede and Maria Archer's Baltimore mini empire — there's also Dede, which holds two Michelin stars, and the more casual Baba'de — is Dede Cellar & Pantry. This is what Baltimore has been crying out for: somewhere to buy coffee, bread and pastries in the morning, to sit and drink wine and share small plates in the evening, and maybe pick up a few bottles to bring home. The pastries by Gokhan Gobayrak and Dede himself include chocolate and pistachio choux, Paris-Brest, lemon custard tarts and chocolate brownies, and there are sourdough baguettes, brioches and a laminated bread which changes daily. @dede_cellar_pantry Rudaí Coffee & Bakes Clifden, Co Galway Local bakers Johnny Magee and Lily Joyce, previously behind the Roundstone food truck Good Stuff, have returned to Clifden after upskilling with stints in the standard-setting Ursa Minor bakery in Ballycastle, Co Antrim, and Dublin's Tang cafe. This summer, they opened Rudaí bakery in Clifden's Station Yard, serving Calendar Coffee and creative bakes using organic and stoneground Irish flour. Think redcurrant and olive oil muffins, nectarine and almond frangipane galettes with vanilla syrup, chocolate and hazelnut croissant bread pudding, and oozing toastie specials like a three-cheese blend with pineapple salsa and tamarind satay jackfruit (using The Sea Hare's tamarind sauce) on their own sourdough bread. @rudaibakery Speciality shops Howbert & Mays Clare Street, Dublin There's been a shop in this charming building for almost 200 years, but this iteration is a beauty. If you were to walk past the elaborate cast-iron awning over the front, with potted plants and bouquets of flowers by the door, you might assume it's a plant shop alone. But inside and on the second level, you'll find all manner of distinctive items alongside those gorgeous plants, like sauna hats made in Ukraine, handmade paper notebooks and Japanese ceramic bowls. Howbert & Mays also has garden centres in Monkstown and Airfield Estate, the latter of which opened last year. howbertandmays.ie The Wellness Pantry The Wellness Pantry Bundoran, Co Donegal Famed for its surf culture, there's a new kid in Bundoran promoting all things feel-good. The brainchild of local woman Jacqueline Breslin, The Wellness Pantry stocks everything from organic vegetables to local honey, but it's also home to speciality teas to help you unwind and ceremonial-grade cacao for your full-moon swim. It's also got all your supplements and essential oils under one roof, with advice and guidance to help you choose what's best for you. Having returned to Donegal after years living in Dublin, Breslin wanted to create something that mirrored the local micro-communities of surfers, runners, yogis, gym enthusiasts and generally people who are health-conscious and curious. Situated in the town's west end, The Wellness Pantry stocks brands including Rua's artisan granola, Moksh Chai and Kelpman's Ocean Blends of wild Atlantic plant protein. With a diploma in nutrition and health coaching from the International Institute of Nutrition and Health, Breslin's mission is to help make Donegal a place where wellness thrives. thewellnesspantry.ie Rogue Gaming's Brendan, Bruno Barretto and André © Sam Woong Rogue Gaming Francis Street, Dublin While they sell board games, trading cards and gaming paraphernalia, this newly opened shop on Francis Street is really a social hub for tabletop gaming. Walk through the door of an evening and you'll find a range of people sitting at tables deep in concentration, playing that day's allocated game, like One Piece, Digimon or Flesh and Blood. You can buy chocolate bars and cold drinks, and it also has a great outdoor area at the back, which is a killer suntrap on a lovely day. roguegaming.ie The Collective & Silver Works Drury Street, Dublin At first glance, this looks every bit like a typical jewellery shop. But the real joy comes from creating your own piece. There are a few different options — in The Collective, you can press your fingerprint (or your dog's nose) into a wax impression kit, then the jewellers will cast the print into a truly one-of-a-kind pendant. But you can also book into the Silver Works jewellery-making workshops, where you can forge your own bangle or make a Claddagh ring. silverworks.ie De Bruir Monasterevin Road, Kildare His pieces are an investment, but the work done by Garvan de Bruir is immaculate, with chic, vintage-style holdalls, flight bags and totes, handcrafted out of the finest leather. He also makes accessories like passport holders, belts and notebooks, alongside quirky bits like supersoft leather scarves, bow ties and aprons. Much is made to order, but you can buy unique items and prototypes in his showroom in Kildare, right next to the atelier where he makes every piece. debruir.com Kevin Callaghan Pottery The Craft Village, Lurganboy, Donegal There's always a charm that comes from watching something get made before buying it. And while you won't be able to pick out your exact piece from the wheel at Kevin Callaghan Pottery, you will be able to see the workshop as you browse the shelves. His pieces — which include uniquely shaped centrepieces, incense holders and tableware — have a quirky, colourful sense of charm, with a slight Japanese influence. He studied at the Royal College of Art London, exhibited at the Saatchi Gallery and V&A, but returned home to Donegal in 2022 to open this shop. kevincallaghanpottery.com Simon and Katherine of Prim's Bookshop with their dogs Nua and Jodi. Prim's Bookshop Kinsale, Co Cork While Kinsale has been home to Prim's Bookshop for more than a decade, it was in the East Cork town of Youghal that owner Simon Prim first got a taste of what it means to run a shop. His father ran Alan Prim Record Shop for half a century, and while books is what Simon and partner Katherine are all about in their own store, live music is an integral part of their mission. The bookshop turns into a wine bar in the evenings — wine starts pouring earlier in the day during the summer months — when the space becomes a moody, candlelit oasis. You'll find everything from live trad to creative writing sessions taking place, with American singer Paul Spring due to perform in the shop next month. Keep an eye out for the shop's mascots when you visit: Simon and Katherine's collie dogs Nua and Jodi. @primsbookshop Patrick Joseph Castle Yard, Kilkenny It feels like many of Ireland's foodies have become obsessed with handcrafted, bespoke knives of late. And the knives at Patrick Joseph top many a wish list. The man behind the craft, Patrick Brennan, works from his studio, but you can see his individually crafted, high-performance steel knives in his shop in the Kilkenny Castle Yard. He also makes bespoke gold and silver jewellery and runs knife-making courses. patrickjoseph.ie Owner of M Cahill & Son Shop Eleanor Purcell © Don Moloney M Cahill & Son Wickham Street, Limerick A family operation since 1870, Cahill's is a Limerick institution. Set in a former tobacco and snuff factory, this is the place to go if you want to pick up 'gentlemen's gifts' like cigars, pipes or shaving kits — it even sells a vegan-fibre shaving brush. But there are also a huge number of loose-leaf teas available in beautiful jars behind the counter, along with teapots and infusers — you can have a sniff and create your own blend. Even more impressively, in the 156 years it has been open, it has never used plastic bags, just paper. All its teas are sold in either tins or pretty bags made from grass. cahillsoflimerick.com Gather Market Square, Kildare There's a great selection of Kildare-made and -designed crafts in stock here, from jewellery and felted decorations to perfumes and candles. But as well as picking something up that an artisan has made, you can also do one of the craft workshops that are held on site, like candle making, flower pressing and punch-needle embroidery. It's supported by the Kildare Local Enterprise Office and County Council. @gatherkildare High Rollers Aungier Street, Dublin If you know nothing about skateboarding, a lot of the stuff in this shop won't make any sense. But the staff are friendly and knowledgeable, so if you need to pick up a gift for a skateboarder in your life, you'll be in good hands. And if you're a skater yourself, then they'll have everything you need. It's a cool, aesthetic set-up, with boards displayed pleasingly on the white and black rough stone walls. highrollersdublin.com Joly's Garden Centre Glenealy, Co Wicklow It's fitting that this shop is in the Garden of Ireland, given that it's packed with all the gardening bits you could need (as well as a selection of beautifully curated plants). But a lot of the charm comes from the ramshackle vibe of the other areas, with velour armchairs placed on vintage rugs, next to local artwork hung on wire frames. The staff have the answer to every question, no matter how silly, and you can get brunch in the Potting Shed Cafe when you're done. jolysgardencentre.ie Farm shops Graze Dairy G Graze Dairy Prosperous, Co Kildare The Gray family's micro-dairy in The Downings offers 'no-miles' milk sold in glass bottles. Established in 2023 by Brian and Hazel Gray, and their son Mark, the non-homogenised milk comes directly from the family's award-winning herd. The Grays' clever cows manage to produce not just regular milk but also flavoured milkshakes, with chocolate and strawberry two of the most popular flavours. The farm cabin also sells eggs and local produce, and this summer introduced a range of gelato available in five different flavours. There's Typo barista coffee too. @graze_dairy Bonny Bó Milk Athlone, Co Westmeath Eimear and Francis Nally sell the milk from their herd of 150 British Friesian dairy cows from a self-service vending machine operating seven days a week. They offer their milk in reusable glass bottles, and in both plain and flavoured versions. Their customers include everyone from nostalgic boomers who remember when milk in glass bottles was the norm, to young families and gym-goers who've never encountered milk other than in plastic bottles and Tetra Pak. The cows are milked by robots, which allows the animals to choose when they are milked and reduces stress. The Nallys reckon the best milk comes from happy cows. @bonnybomilk Saltrock Dairy Saltrock Dairy Gorey, Co Wexford You'll find Catherine Kinsella's beautiful Saltrock butter on the table at Comet restaurant in Dublin, where Kevin O'Donnell serves it alongside his delicious sourdough bread. The butter is handmade using traditional methods — first the cream is separated, then live cultures are added, before it is churned, washed and salted all by hand. The Kinsellas also sell the non-homogenised milk from their grass-fed cows from their farm shop and trailer, and at farmers' markets, alongside yoghurt, kefir and that very special butter, which was recently awarded two stars at the Great Taste Awards. @saltrockfarm Ubh by Paudie Kilkee, Co Clare Nine-year-old Paudie Murray established his honesty box egg shop at the start of the summer when he got a present of two hens. The young entrepreneur gets up early each morning to feed, water and put fresh straw out for the chickens, and makes sure the box — made by his grandfather — is stocked by 2pm each day. He now has 100 hens in his flock, and charges €2 for half a dozen free-range eggs. Customers are encouraged to sign a visitors' book, and he has sold to people from all over the world. As he heads back to school later this month, the hours for the honesty box may have to change, so keep an eye on his social media — he has over 27,000 followers on Instagram — for details. @ubhbypaudie The Egg Shed Killucan, Co Westmeath Jack and Sean's flock of happy hens spend their days foraging for insects and seeds on their family farm in Killucan, retiring at night to roost at Cluckingham Palace. The boys collect the free-range eggs from the nesting boxes each morning and bring them to their honesty box, a two-minute walk away, where they sell them for €3 per half dozen. The Egg Shed helpfully accepts both cash and Revolut. If you're in luck, you may be able to buy homemade strawberry jam too. @sjm_egg_shed Lifestyle and gifts Doireann Healy of Begley & Bowie Begley & Bowie Henry Street, Kenmare, Co Kerry With its colourful windows and smart facade, this lifestyle shop on Kenmare's high street is as appealing on the outside as it is inside. Owner Doireann Healy has drawn on her experience as an interior designer and artist and her love of colour (neon pink, in particular) to create her bright and breezy shop, stocked with her designs, which riff on playful styles and bright pastels. Pick up her signature sweatshirts and T-shirts, art prints, table linens, ceramics from Musango, candles and stationery from Heather Evelyn, accessories from Donna Wilson and McWilliam sailing bags. There's also fresh flowers once a week and beautiful bakes from Dingle. The addition of a new gallery/events space and the Noni cafe, named after Healy's grandmother, make this a buzzy addition to the already lively town of Kenmare. begleyandbowie.bigcartel.com The Fancy Nest Claregalway, Co Galway A relative newcomer that's earning a fast following, this interiors and lifestyle shop is worth the short detour from the city to Claregalway for a browse. Owner Marie Mullen has an eye for pieces that bring personality to a home, from sculptural lamps and colourful ceramics to decorative accessories and furniture, alongside an edit of jewellery and fashion. Everything feels well-collected and curated, encouraging a wander and a rethink of those corners of your home that deserve a refresh. thefancynest.com The Coach House Dingle, Co Kerry 'I wanted to create somewhere that reflected my own love of craftsmanship, quality and life's little luxuries,' says interior designer and native Irish speaker Grainne Kavanagh of her shop, tucked inside a charming stone cottage in Dingle, which has been championing Irish design long before 'shop local' became a mantra. More than 30 Irish makers are among the carefully chosen edit of homewares, fashion and gifts, from La Bougie candles to O My Bag accessories and MoMuse jewellery. Kavanagh delights in sharing the story behind each piece with the odd cúpla focal thrown in for good measure. 'The shop has always been about more than what sits on the shelves. I hope everyone who steps through the door leaves feeling their day has been elevated.' coachhousedingle.com Life Store's Eoin and Siobhán Ryan Life Store Straffan, Co Kildare The town of Straffan just got a whole lot buzzier with the addition of Life Store — the latest offering from Eoin and Siobhán Ryan of the award-winning Victorian Tea Rooms and Straffan Antiques. Set aside the day to enjoy all the offerings, starting with a browse for antiques, lunch at the cafe, and the afternoon spent browsing the huge selection of brands at the new lifestyle store, including Fukil clothing, One Dame Lane jewellery, Sarah McKenna ceramics, artisan oils by Peridot and preserves from their own tea rooms. 'We built this space to encourage people to treat themselves, giving into the 'notions' we all deserve.' straffanantiques.com Eske Home Eske Home Castle Street, Donegal The modest shopfront belies the Tardis-like interior of this lifestyle shop on Donegal's Castle Street, which seems to unfold with contemporary finds as you wander down its long corridor interior. Shelves are thoughtfully stocked with artisan ceramics, candles and perfumes, quirky kids' toys, stationery, kitchenware and textiles along with a selection of larger homeware items, including lamps, occasional tables, baskets and artwork by local artists. Stylish and unfussy and a deviation from the town's more traditional craft and gift shops. @eske.home Nook Home Nook Home Trim, Co Meath Owner Ursula O'Rourke describes the aesthetic of her shop as 'a little bit French, a little bit Nordic and a little bit country', and that mix is evident throughout the shop, where elegant lighting, mirrors, furniture, linen textiles and home fragrances sit alongside thoughtful gifts and decorative finds that wouldn't look out of place in a French farmhouse or a Nantucket beach house. The huge collection includes a dedicated Riviera Maison 'shop-in-shop' and Nook's own collections and interior design service. nookhome.ie Studio 90 Dundalk, Co Louth Opened in May 2025, Studio 90 is less a conventional shop than a glimpse inside designer Gillian Leavy's creative world. Housed on the first floor of her 19th-century Dundalk townhouse — home to her design studio for the last 30 years — the space feels more like an elegant home than a retail fit-out, with family antiques, soaring ceilings and ornate plasterwork. Alongside Leavy's own Dear John clothing brand and Liquorice homeware collection, you'll find a tightly edited mix of brands she genuinely admires: Christina Lundsteen cushions, Claus Porto heritage soaps, Belgian-Japanese jewellery label Tabito and hand-painted tableware by Dimanche vaisselle. 'I want people to discover something they haven't seen elsewhere,' says Leavy. 'If they've made the effort to come upstairs, I want them to feel it was worth the climb.' @studio90_lifestyle Standún Spiddal, Co Galway A Connemara institution with considerably more range than the traditional Irish gift shop, Standún has been trading in Spiddal since 1946. Irish knitwear remains at its heart, but the family-run store has evolved into a lifestyle destination spanning fashion, jewellery, beauty, homeware and gifts. Established Irish names Voya, MoMuse, McNutt of Donegal, The Handmade Soap Company, Galway Crystal and Aran Woollen Mills sit alongside contemporary brands Ilse Jacobsen, Jellycat, Rex London and Vera Wang. It's especially reliable for beautifully made presents with provenance, from wool throws and ceramics to smaller design-led finds. standun.com Nook & Cranny Portlaoise, Co Laois This award-winning gift and lifestyle store has a sharp eye for the good stuff. Spread out over three floors, it's been described as 'bougie' with 'Brown Thomas-level brands'. You'll find retro games, candles, books, quirky homewares, jewellery, scarves, luxury toiletries and prints thoughtfully sourced by owner Ladonna McCartan, considered to be a 'gift whisperer'. The vibe is polished without being stuffy — a great stop for anyone who is looking for something chic, but not obvious. nookandcranny.ie The Grey Heron Bandon, Co Cork Behind a bright yellow door in Bandon, The Grey Heron is part gift shop, part gallery and part coffee shop, with a particularly good eye for Irish design. The shelves mix West Cork makers with international finds: La Bougie fragrances, colourful Irish prints and pottery alongside McNutt throws, stationery, kitchenware and kids' accessories. There's wit among the worthy too, with playful mugs, cards and socks. The gallery hosts monthly exhibitions, while the in-store Brew Bar pours West Cork coffee. thegreyheron.ie Café Rua Castlebar, Co Mayo Part artisan food hall, part lifestyle shop, Café Rua has become something of an institution in Castlebar. Its award-winning bakery and cafe are reason enough to visit, but the adjoining retail space is worthy of a lengthy browse, where you can pick up cookbooks, tableware, kitchen linens, ceramics and gifts that reflect the same commitment to quality as the menu. It captures the growing appetite for shops that combine good food with home and lifestyle, making it easy to leave with a loaf of sourdough, a handmade serving bowl and a pretty tea towel under your arm. caferua.com Wine & beverages The O'Hara sisters © Cathal Noonan Kate's Kitchen Castle Street, Sligo A longtime fixture in Sligo town for foodies seeking delicious things, the grocery and gift shop run by sisters Kate, Beth and Jane O'Hara is also a beacon for beverages both boozy and alcohol-free. Besides a fine selection of wines at decent prices, and Irish brands like Wicklow Way Wines, Killahora Ice Wine, Craft Cocktails and All About Kombucha, the shop stocks specialist goodies to elevate your home mixology. Think Hotel Starlino maraschino cherries; Drink Botanicals freeze-dried fig slices; Belvoir, Biona and Richmond cordials; and apothecary-style Bacanha syrups in diverse flavours from blackcurrant and basil to liquorice and lavender — all available on their excellent online store too. kateskitchen.ie The Wine Grove Castlebar, Co Mayo Every bottle has a story, and Aisling McGreevy is here to share them with her wine-loving customers at The Wine Grove, where she hosts regular wine tastings and events and a weekend wine bar with nibbles. Open less than two years but already a central fixture on Market Square, the shop's wine selection proudly features several winemakers with strong Mayo connections: with beauties from Róisín Curley (who splits her time between her family's Mayo pharmacy and her Burgundy winery), Roka winery (run by Liam and Sinéad Cabot, who split their time between their Westport-based wine importers and their Slovenian vineyards and winery), and Diga (from Montsant-based Tom Gallagher, whose mother hails from Castlebar). thewinegrove.ie Judith Boyle of Boyle's Kildare Boyle's Kildare Market Square, Co Kildare Judith Boyle is a fouth-generation publican — and the third to run this Kildare town pub since 1942, when her grandfather John, the son of a Galway publican, settled here. Judith now runs the pub and off-licence with her father Jarlath, between lecturing in beverages at TU Dublin, working as an international beer judge and brewing the Irish braggot-style Brigid's Ale with her drinks consultant sister Susan. The pair pop up at wine tastings and cocktail classes at their family pub and various Irish festivals to share their collective knowledge. Their range of micro and macro beers, excellent wines and fine spirits are chosen and sold with a discerning blend of professional knowledge and understanding of their local clientele. boyleskildare.com Ré Coffee & Design Salthill, Co Galway Sister store to Fairhill in Galway, this five-year-old Salthill favourite is a sweet spot for freshly brewed coffee or matcha and Hapi Bakery cakes and sandwiches, but also for a small but considered seasonal range of natural wine sourced from the likes of Fruit Seller Wines, La Rousse, Grapecircus and Le Caveau. Grab a stool and a cosy corner to enjoy a coffee, then pick up a bottle or two to go. Don't leave without browsing the eclectic range of design pieces from the likes of McNutt of Donegal, Cré Rua ceramics and Badly Made Books. @re_galway Sonas Health Foods Newcastle West, Limerick It's not every health food store that shouts on its social media about new arrivals like chillable cans of Djuce organic red wine — recommended paired 'with friends!' — but Rosemarie Bennis takes a truly holistic approach to the range of delights she stocks in her 25-year-old store. Like her food offering, her wine range leans to organic and biodynamic, with cult classics like Meinklang Rosé Pet Nat from wine merchants like Grapecircus and Wines Direct who import from small-scale, low-intervention producers. Other quality tipples might include Con's Irish Med Dry Cider or Rochester Ginger Drink, made to a 'Dickensian Recipe', alongside Coffee Culture coffee and a healthy dose of community spirit. sonashealthfoods.ie Dodi Stockroom Lahinch, Co Clare With some of the best wine folk popping up regularly for in-store tastings — such as Colm McCan from Le Caveau Wines, who also runs the pop-up wine shop at Ballymaloe Grainstore — this is truly a wine shop where you'll never know what, or who, you might find. The selection is small but rotates regularly, with the focus on low-intervention producers and interesting blends. Sister business to Dodi Cafe, where the menu is inspired by co-owner Doria Orfali of Lebanese-Irish heritage, this treasure trove opened in April 2024 and also stocks elegant ceramic homewares to bring a little of the Dodi charm home with you. dodi.ie The Whiskey Reserve Temple Bar, Dublin Imagine a whiskey store where the bottle-lined walls read like a library of history books, featuring one of Ireland's largest whiskey selections, and you can taste from every bottle on the many shelves (wallets permitting — those rarest of Midleton Very Rare expressions don't pour cheap) and buy most of them too (again, wallets permitting, but starting at approachable prices). Bookable tastings start at €40 and take place at an Art Deco-sleek horseshoe bar, but all are welcome to wander in for a gander and pick up a bottle to go. thewhiskeyreserve.com Craft Central Stephen Street, Dublin You could easily walk by this gem of a beer shop, mistaking it for your average newsagent. Tucked away inside Stephen Street News, where it began in 2016 as a wee beer corner, the inner chamber houses one of the best selections of Irish and international craft brews. The selection doubles on its online version, but it's the unlikely central location of the physical store that makes it one of the city's best-loved beer specialist retailers, along with its commitment to stocking new and limited-edition brews. A perfect spot to pick up a few BYO tinnies to bring to The Hideout pool hall around the corner. craftcentral.ie Mistervini Mullingar, Co Westmeath Two decades of selling carefully curated wine and artisan edible goodies to the folk of Mullingar has made Mistervini an indispensable part of town. Owner Bernard Smyth insists that wine is for everyone, whatever your knowledge, experience or preferences, and prides himself on sharing his significant expertise to help each customer find their bottle. The wine bar and regular wine fairs and tastings allow you to taste your way to that perfect bottle. Add fridges filled with Sheridans cheese and cured meats, and shelves stacked with small-batch chocolates and gourmet crackers and crisps, and it's a one-stop shop. mistervini.ie Myles Doyle Select Grocer & Fine Wine Merchant Gorey, Co Wexford Back in the 1960s, Mylie Doyle inherited a butcher's shop in Gorey from his aunt Alice Kirwan. Mylie had experience working nearby in Graham's Pub & Grocery (now Bob's Bar) so, in 1966, he opened his new grocers where he would work for almost 50 years. His son, John Doyle, carries on that traditional spirit of friendly service and discerning knowledge, stocking his 'select grocer' with pride and panache, with a selection of fine international wines filling shelves alongside local produce like Saltrock Dairy's cultured butter, Aggie's Elderflower Cordial, The Apple Farm's Slow-Dried Irish Elstar Apple Crisps, Bia Culture's Live Probiotic Fermented SauerBeet, Miena's Nougat and much more. myselectgrocer.com Áitiúil Barna, Co Galway With a background in restaurants, owner Aoife Flaherty brings that hospitality flair to her artisan grocery and lifestyle store in Barna village on the edge of Connemara, where she sells coffee, homewares and provisions. It stocks a solid range of about 50 wines sourced from importers like Wild Wines, Honest2Goodness and Quintessential Wines, with a focus on low-intervention, organic, biodynamic wines from small producers, with some interesting Greek and Hungarian bottles among the largely French, Spanish and Italian selection. You'll also find treats like Nutshed peanut butter, Open Hive honey, Hederman Smoke House beech-smoked country butter, Wildwood vinegars produced in Westport with local foraged fruits and botanicals, and also alcohol-free sodas like Solas Natural Cola. @aitiuil Lilith Wines Stoneybatter, Dublin Team Lilith includes Irish Independent wine writer Aoife Carrigy, but that's not why we want to tell you about it. Owner Sophie Robson recently celebrated the fifth birthday of her beautiful Prussia Street wine and food emporium with a party in neighbouring Hynes' pub. With a rotation of seasonal European wines keeping things fresh for regulars, and some serious top-shelf beauties attracting a discerning clientele, Robson's superpower is her ability to pinpoint the exact bottle that her customers want to drink today. Add a wide selection of Irish and international beers, a Sheridans cheese fridge, sweet and savoury pantry delights, and a monthly Wine Club and regular Wine School nights, and this is an indie shop you need to know about. lilith.ie Interiors and homewares Laura McKenna, owner of Sonny's in Rathgar © Mark Condren Sonny's Rathgar, Dublin Neighbourhood shops are having a moment, and Sonny's in Rathgar feels like the perfect village outpost. Originally a butcher's, which served the Rathgar community for over 80 years, owner Laura McKenna has honoured its history, retaining many of the original features, including an old butcher's block that sits proudly in the window. You'll find everything from Italian designer mirrors from the 1970s to contemporary Irish art and timeless ceramics. 'We believe love is in the details,' says the former stylist and costume designer. 'Whether that's helping someone find the perfect card, thoughtful gift or wrapping it beautifully to make it feel that bit more special.' sonnysstore.ie The Wilds Coolbeg, Co Wicklow After a devastating fire destroyed their Wexford premises, owners Simon Nelson and Paula Asple shifted operations to the restored Beehive building near Wicklow town, bringing with them their unmistakable flair for relaxed, stylish spaces. The Wilds was always a destination shop, one for which you'd happily detour, where you'll find interiors, gardening, lighting, textiles and homewares alongside a buzzy cafe or, as one customer put it, 'a mix of modern, Scandi, rustic and Irish design with a handmade stamp, a great garden centre and really excellent cake.' All the ingredients of a perfect afternoon. thewilds.ie Duilleog Interiors Headford, Co Galway Founded by sisters Sinead and Dearbhaile Joyce in 2023 as an extension of their successful family-run business, Joyce's Hardware and Home in Headford, Duilleog reimagines almost five decades of retail heritage through a modern lens, pairing furniture, lighting and homewares with an editorial eye which feels more boutique than showroom. 'We felt that the market was moving towards mass production and losing that personal touch,' says Sinead, who believes being an independent shop owner means you can always stay true to your core values. Expect to find Sits sofas and Kristensen & Kristensen dining tables alongside chessboards, binoculars, playful prints, baskets and clocks — ticking all the boxes for a full renovation or those simply searching for the perfect lamp, linen throw or vase to refresh a room. duilleoginteriors.com Killian Mc Nulty at his shop on Francis Street. © Steve Humphreys Killian McNulty Gallery Francis Street, Dublin The newest kid on the antiques block, Killian McNulty brings a certain swagger to Francis Street, with his soulful collection of mid-century furniture shouldering up proudly next to his long-standing neighbours. He has a magpie eye for spotting interesting, quirky and beautiful pieces from the likes of Milo Baughman, Willy Rizzo, Jens Risom, Arne Vodder and Paul Evans, all curated expertly in his gallery space. You'll also have the pleasure of viewing, and buying, work by his wife, Irish lighting designer Niamh Barry. Everything that comes through the door has to merit its inclusion. But it's not just the pieces; it's the experience that makes it special. 'We know that people often pop in just to browse, and we want to make that a comfortable process. We want people to leave energised after engaging with us and the shop.' killianmcnulty.com Interiosity Douglas, Cork Ever since opening its doors in 2015, this interiors mecca has been something of a Cork stalwart. Located in a former woollen mill, the shop has character before you step inside, where you'll find an ever-evolving display of furniture, lighting, mirrors, tableware, accessories and gifts from the homewares favourites Dutchbone, Zuiver, Umage, John Hanly and Rathborne. Look out for a regular roll call of guest artists and unique collaborations and, should you need it, it offers a design service to help you 'turn your home into a place that feels truly special'. interiosity.ie Jaqi Malahide, Dublin Jackie Tracey's slick new showroom in Malahide follows the success of its premises on Charlemont Square with a more neighbourhood feel. Both are built around the premise that stores are designed to be explored rather than simply shopped in, with layered room settings and unexpected finds. Alongside furniture and lighting, you'll find a variety of European and one-off brands, mixing vintage pieces, artwork, books and ceramics from the likes of Ethnicraft, CC-Tapis, Bodema, Ferm Living and Gubi. 'Our experience designing homes means we understand not just what looks beautiful, but what people genuinely live with and grow attached to. Being independent gives us the freedom to curate with conviction rather than following passing trends.' jaqi.ie Cohen & Co Ballynahinch, Co Down Walking into interior designer Helen Wright's showroom in Saintfield is like walking into a stylish home, one that walks the line between French and Irish country chic. Painted panelling, tablescapes, a wooden pantry and beautifully layered shelves, filled with homewares you wouldn't find on every high street, elevate it from a traditional retail space to one straight from a considered home — quite the leap from its inception as a market in 2022, followed by a bricks-and-mortar shop in 2026. 'We believe in buying less but buying better,' says Wright, who goes out of her way to find unique, beautiful and practical products from well-loved and independent brands. cohenandco.co.uk Strand Sandymount, Dublin Family-run and rooted in community, Strand in Sandymount now straddles Strand Home, Strand Interiors and the neighbourhood food store Strand Fare. The home store is a masterclass in understated style, layering contemporary furniture with sculptural lighting, tactile linens, artisan tableware, colourful candles, cushions and decorative objects that add a splash to your home. One local sums it up: 'I love the beautiful wallpapers, choice of fabrics and the quirky little ornaments, but my favourite thing about it is how friendly they are, always genuine, always helpful.' When you're done browsing, pop into the adjoining Strand Fare for coffee, pastries and excellent pantry staples. strand.ie Objekt Newcastle West, Co Limerick Founded by interior architect Aoife Hayes in 2006, this 6,000-square-foot showroom is a colourful stamp in the otherwise sleepy town of Newcastle West, Co Limerick. Expect to find statement sofas by Calia Italia, rugs by Calligaris, sculptural lighting by Umage, quirky gifts that range from leopard-print vases to botanical-print clocks, &Klevering tableware and neon cocktail signs. If the colourful windows don't prompt a stop, it's worth detouring if your interiors default is bright, bold European design with the emphasis on sass. objekt.ie Rock Hill Interiors Blackrock, Co Dublin Paula and Colin Campbell's smart Blackrock interiors shop has become a go-to for both interior designers and design-savvy homeowners. Furniture, lighting, textiles and home accessories from established names sit alongside smaller makers, artisan pieces and exclusive collaborations. Rather than following trends, the edit feels layered and sophisticated, with strong colour, pattern and texture. Come for a cushion or lamp; leave mentally rearranging the entire sitting room. rockhillinteriors.com Treasure Trove Castlebridge, Co Wexford Housed across three floors of a 200-year-old former malt house, Treasure Trove offers the ultimate antiques rummage, which feels satisfyingly old-school. The 6,000-square-foot space is packed with furniture and decorative finds spanning Georgian, Victorian, Art Deco and mid-century modern. Expect mahogany chests, dining tables and armchairs alongside mirrors, paintings, lamps, ceramics, oriental rugs and glassware, with regular drops from Europe and the UK ensuring there's always something new to unearth. Stock moves quickly and prices are keen, so prepare to rummage and hunt. treasuretrove.ie Born & Bred Ann Street, Belfast Few shops champion Northern Irish creativity quite like Born & Bred. The shop was founded by artist Linzi Rooney to showcase the wealth of local makers, designers and artists as an alternative to mass-produced souvenirs and predictable gifts shops. You'll find over 150 Irish artists, designers and craftspeople represented through an ever-changing mix of bold prints, ceramics, jewellery, textiles, food, candles, witty homewares and Rooney's own colourful illustrations. Don't forget to pop upstairs to meet the artists-in-residence and see them at work. wearebornandbred.com Jennifer Slattery Textiles Smithfield, Dublin 'Everything begins with the fabric — natural fibres, thoughtful design, and a deep respect for traditional making.' It's an ethos which has served designer Jennifer Slattery well since she started with a small collection in 2011. Her shop in Dublin is not just a shop; it's where the 'making' happens, where you'll hear the soft thrum of sewing machines producing embroidered linen napkins and runners with exquisite detailing and select pieces of clothing. 'There's a lovely calm to the space, and people often say it feels like stepping into a little world of its own, somewhere you can take your time and really connect with the work.' jenniferslattery.com Fashion shops & pop-ups Emporium Drury Street, Dublin Streetwear brand Emporium is co-owned by friends Robbie Fidgeon Kavanagh and Charlie Proctor-Quigley, who began the business in 2018. This shop offers not only unisex unique streetwear but a community built from the culture of the area. They collaborate with local Irish artists and musicians, and even had Irish artist Kevin Judge airbrush T-shirts live in their store for his limited-edition collab with the brand. This is the perfect store for the graphic T-shirt collector, but make sure to visit often and quickly as most designs are offered for a limited run. Keep an eye on their socials for the upcoming events with your favourite, or soon-to-be-favourite, artists. emporiumdublin.com Designer Helen Cody Helen Cody's Vintage Atelier Harold's Cross, Co Dublin Beloved Irish designer Helen Cody has shut her design practice and turned to vintage. Although it may have been a difficult goodbye for Cody, the idea of opening a vintage store is extremely fitting. Vintage is about reinvention. Yes, you may be wearing something from the past, but now it's up to you to give it a new life and style it in your own unique way. The store is open on a pop-up basis, so follow Cody on socials to get the next opening date. With names like Prada, Rick Owens, Christian La Croix and Louboutin featured, you're sure not to regret a visit… although your bank statement may say otherwise. @helencodydublin Archive 63 owners Aaron Keddy, Sam Ring, Zakk Meakin, Eoin Byrne Archive 63 Kilcoole, Co Wicklow Owned by Aaron Keddy, Sam Ring, Zakk Meakin and Eoin Byrne, Archive 63 offers unisex streetwear, footwear and even skateboards. You can find classic, beloved brands like Thrasher, Supreme and Nike as well as contemporary Irish-owned brands like Pellador and Emporium. The store mainly focuses on resale items that are found and curated by the owners, although they do offer consignment too, which means customers can bring in items in good condition and try to sell it through the store. With a wide selection and reasonable prices, this store is most definitely worth a visit for streetwear lovers. Fresh Cuts Abbeygate Street Lower, Galway Independent shop Fresh Cuts caters to women, men and children. The boutique began in Dublin but has recently opened up a Galway location. It focuses on sustainable Irish designs with good-quality fabric. Minimalists and maximalists will find joy in this shop as it stocks day-to-day staple pieces that would fit in a capsule wardrobe and bold, quirky prints that would catch any onlooker's eye. You can even find T-shirts with Irish artists' prints on them, including Enda Burke, James Kirwan and Luke Reidy. freshcutsclothing.com Kimono Newcastle West, Co Limerick This contemporary womenswear boutique is a haven for the fashion-forward, modern woman. If you're after out-there Celia B stock or want a little childlike fun from your outfit, why not shop Sister Jane? This shop will deliver, regardless of your style. It also has a gorgeous selection of suede and leather handbags, plus statement jewellery to act as the cherry on top of your fit. kimono.ie Olori Oliver Plunkett Street, Cork Olori boutique in Cork leads with chicness and simplicity, stocking clothing that adds an ever-so-delicate twist on the classics. A brand that should be highlighted in its stock list is Soeur, a French womenswear brand that borrows from the masculine wardrobe, creating that perfect faux 'I just grabbed this from my boyfriend's closet' look. It also shows love to Irish designers like Urban Aran, which creates bold knits, and Roisin Linnane, who masterfully drapes silks. olori.ie Sakhi Arora of Ray-sha Threads of Life Ray-sha Threads of Life Dublin Female-led, Indian fashion brand Ray-sha Threads of Life is for the woman who wants to look and feel like a ray of sunshine. The owner, Sakhi Arora, is a full-time architect who emigrated to Ireland from India. The printed silk and cotton fabrics are the same as those she grew up around as a child. She's now sharing a piece of home with the people of Ireland. Although Ray-sha Threads of Life doesn't have a bricks-and-mortar store, it regularly pops up at markets, such as Fade Street. These handmade, breathable dresses are sure to put a smile on your face. @raysha_threadsoflife VG Fashion Studio Abbey Street Upper, Dublin I encourage you to pop down to Abbey Street to visit this newly opened store. With its central location, it is not only convenient but has answered the question: can you get good cotton for a reasonable price? VG Fashion Studio says yes. This womenswear K-style clothing shop offers day-to-day basic pieces that can easily slot into your wardrobe, as well as graphic tees, denim and some more statement pieces. Get into Korean fashion, while keeping it close to home and avoiding high shipping costs. @taymeet_vgfashion The Slow Concept Dingle, Co Kerry The Slow Concept is a retail store that champions Irish design. You'll find this statement-piece store at Dingle Marina. It houses contemporary Irish designers such as Mar knitwear, Orla Langan and Cleo Prickett. However, if you're after a bold look, you should check its stock from artist and designer Clare O'Connor, NCAD graduate Jenny Connolly and Snámhaí Sásta. To top off your look, you can find geometric colourful jewellery from A Little Idea, or handmade gold and silver timeless pieces from Ardmore Jewellery. This shop is a perfect introduction into the wide-ranging world of Irish design. theslowconcept.ie Elan Rentals Leeson Street Upper, Dublin If you want glamour on a budget, then you need to visit Rachael Roden of Elan Rentals on Leeson Street. She offers designer dresses from brands such as Simone Rocha, Taller Marmo and Stella McCartney. Whether you're a wedding guest who's sick of buying dresses for one day, or an avid race-day dresser with a sustainable streak, this boutique is for you. Her frocks have already been donned by the likes of Suzanne Jackson, Kathryn Thomas and Irish DJ Fionnuala Moran so you're sure to be in good company. So next time you look at your closet and think you have nothing to wear, just raid Rachael's closet instead! elanrentals.ie Gracie Collier of Spice Vintage in Sligo © James Connolly Spice Vintage Sligo Gracie Collier loves her vintage business so much, she's decided to move in. The young entrepreneur has recently bought her home and studio in Sligo with her boyfriend. Now she simply walks down her staircase to get to work. Spice Vintage customers have been following along on her Instagram, where she has been giving an in-depth look into the DIY projects that took place to get her studio ready. 'I struggled because it was strenuous and took a lot of time. The renovations themselves were hard. I was taking up tiles and did it all myself,' says Collier. She's not only growing her already successful business but growing a community along the way. She's honest on her TikTok page about the doubts she has had and those moments of belief that led her to keep going. 'The business is thriving; it's exceeded all my expectations. Even the shop's follower count on TikTok has gone up by about 50,000 in the last year because of my new venture in Sligo,' she says. The Sligo studio will open for shoppers initially on a pop-up basis. Collier's business began in West Cork in 2018, and has since grown into a thriving online business. Her vintage offerings mainly focus on the 1980s and 1990s aesthetics, so you can expect brightly coloured patterned shorts as well cosy graphic sweatshirts and even the odd horse-printed denim jacket. 'My mission in life is to make shopping vintage clothing accessible, fun and exciting and helping people try new things with their style,' she says. She handpicks all of her pieces herself, whether travelling to do so or over video call. She even has a bridal section of dresses, ranging in price from €120-€200 — a bargain for unique brides who have a love affair with vintage. Collier also creates reworked pieces offering a new spin on vintage favourites, reminding you that the starting point of a thrifted piece is just that, a starting point. It's up to you to put your own style and spin on it. Her next pop-up takes place today in Dublin's Portobello community hall, so if you're fast and Dublin-based, there's time to dig through racks of party-worthy sequin gúnas, unique knits and much more. Don't fret, however, if you can't make it. Collier does weekly stock drops on her website and is constantly announcing new pop-ups on her social media and website. 'It's the gift that keeps giving, after nine years. I can't believe I get to do business in the way I am, it's really amazing.' spicevintageonline.com Storefront NI Castle Street, Derry Storefront NI offers a plethora of Irish design with an almost Scandi feel to it. Its designs are young, fresh and put an Irish twist on some modern pieces, like its sheep-printed utility jacket. The brand is owned by friends Connor McKinney, Ryan Watkins, George Griffiths and Ryan Henderson. It specialises in graphic prints, whether it be on T-shirts or caps, and has some standout knit pieces, like the heritage knitted jersey. The brand believes in collaboration and has dropped pieces with Irish unisex brand Emporium and British shoe brand Clarks. Having recently got the stamp of approval from Brown Thomas, you can now also find the brand at the Grafton Street store in the Irish design section. storefrontni.com Global grocers Ayla Turkish Foods Market Capel Street, Dublin Capel Street is one of Dublin's custodians of culinary diversity, and Ayla Foods is very much part of that milieu. The Turkish supermarket brings a range of packaged drinks and snacks — like Ayran (the yoghurt drink that's also been deemed the national drink of Turkey), packaged sahlab (a fragrant and thick milk drink flavoured with spices and nuts), and un kurabiyesi (Turkish shortbread) — to the capital. 'My wife and I prepare a range of fresh Turkish, Greek and Balkan-style baked goods every day in our small kitchen,' says owner Erol Başak, who moved to Ireland 20 years ago. 'These include borek, simit, and a variety of other traditional pastries.' Başak is originally from Istanbul and was involved in international trade on behalf of his family in Finland and Iceland before the move to Ireland. It's impossible to leave the shop without buying something, especially since the store also operates a deli-style counter. 'One part of the Ayla story that we are particularly proud of is baklava,' Başak says. ayla.ie Asian Arabic Foods Parnell Street, Limerick A 'halal' sign in Arabic next to the Asian Arabic Foods shop sign reassures customers who abide by Islamic dietary laws when purchasing meat. Inside, a whole compartment dedicated to fresh fruit and vegetables draws shoppers to it with the aroma of ripeness. The store exemplifies globalisation. A wide range of packaged tea features Arab and Indian brands like Wagh Bakri, which has origins in Gujarat with roots in South Africa. Canned and bottled foods include olives and pickles, both worthy sides with Mediterranean food. Castor oil and neem oil form part of a concise selection of cosmetic products. facebook.com Inside Africa Shandon Street, Cork Inside Africa's sign says 'curing your diaspora blues' under the shop's name — a witty touch that's sure to put those looking for the familiarity of home at ease. The female-owned business has been operating since 2005. 'I want people to come into the shop and find that one thing they've been used to since they were young,' says owner Abolore Falano, who is from Nigeria. 'It's like going outside [of Ireland] and finding Barry's tea.' Yam flour, a cooking staple across Africa, can be found here, along with obe ata seasoning that's used to flavour the West African stew of the same name. The indigenous snack selection includes the crunchy and sweet coconut chin chin, and also plantain chips. In the cosmetics aisle, you'll find haircare products like oils and hair polisher. The shop offers a free click-and-collect service, and delivers across Ireland. insideafricastore.ie Real Brasil Capel Street, Dublin Those who know Brazilian snacks definitely know pao de queijo, and Real Brasil stocks several frozen varieties of the traditional 'cheese bread' made with tapioca flour. Other frozen snacks that fill the freezers include Toscana sausages and the batter-fried, teardrop-shaped coxinha. Biscuits with animal shapes from Passatempo by Nestlé are stacked on one of the shelves, with fillings ranging from chocolate to strawberry cream — ideal for teatime or for kids. There's no dearth of sweet treats here, including Goiabada cascão: a guava paste made with fresh guava and sugar, and pacoca: a peanut candy. The store also takes pride in sourcing acai directly from Brazil. @real_brasil_dublin Chuan Jin Lin Asian Supermarket Bray, Co Wicklow Ireland's Asian supermarket game is strong, and Chuan Jin Lin Asian Store — named after its Chinese owner — is one of many with a smorgasbord of products from Asia. While Dublin may be the obvious choice for shopping for Asian ingredients, Wicklow isn't far behind with this shop that stocks everything from condiments to frozen food. Dumplings, soy sauce, banana sauce, spices, herbal tea, and candied fruit in syrup are just some of the many specialities to be found here. Choose from a selection of raw lentils, fragrant jasmine rice, kimchi and fresh vegetables and chillies to prepare Asian-inspired meals at home. chuan-jin-lin-asian.edan.io Bulgarian Food Store Balkan South Circular Road, Dublin While Eastern European supermarkets in Dublin include chains like Polonez and Moldova Stores, the Bulgarian Food Store on South Circular Road is a smaller, independent business with a worthy selection of products from the Balkans. If the baskets of fresh vegetables aren't enough to lure you, multiple refrigerator shelves are dedicated to a variety of cheeses and sausages. Chocolate-coated wafer bars from Bulgarian brands like Zydo and Mypa will appeal to customers with a sweet tooth, and bulging packets of white beans will entice enthusiastic home cooks. A few shelves of creams, lotions and wipes make up the cosmetics section. Ingredients Stillorgan, Dublin Those looking for an extensive range of packaged products from India will find Ingredients in Stillorgan to be their Disneyland. Owners Moby PB and Mini Moby — who hail from Kerala — handed the responsibility of running the business to their son, Melvin Moby, over 10 years ago. 'My father started this business in 2008 and we opened our store in Stillorgan in 2014,' Melvin says. The shop has expanded in recent months and added a whole new section to its premises, with a wider range of savoury snacks. At the other end of the store, familiarity is found in packets of instant noodles like Maggi, biscuits like Parle-G and Little Hearts, and bottled syrups like Rooh Afza — transporting many back to childhoods spent in South Asia. A small section is dedicated to varieties of East Asian sauces and chilli oil. An entire aisle brims with lentils, pickles and spices, bookended by a shelf dedicated to boxes of dates from Palestine. ingredients.ie Manager at Pinoy Sari Sari Store Manny Suguitan with his mother Siony © Gareth Chaney Pinoy Sari Sari Store Mary Street, Dublin Filipino snacks and produce are as varied as the cuisine of the Philippines, and Dublin showcases them proudly at shops like Pinoy Sari Sari Store. The female owner, who is now retired, has passed on the business to her son, Manny Suguitan. On any given day, the shop sees queues at the counter. Indigenous vegetables like karela and okra have pride of place in the refrigerators, while packaged treats like Boy Bawang Cornick (a garlicky corn snack) and butter coconut biscuits attract both those who grew up eating them and novices impressed by their novelty. Whoever plans and replenishes stock here has thought of every speciality possible, including pandesal (Filipino bread rolls) and the Filipino-style shortbread polvoron (made with powdered milk, flour, butter, and sugar). facebook.com Books and comics The Library Project Temple Bar, Dublin Nestled in the heart of Temple Bar, The Library Project is one of Dublin's most unusual independent cultural spaces. Part bookshop, part gallery and part creative hub, it specialises in books on photography, art, design, architecture and visual culture that are difficult to find elsewhere. Alongside titles from international publishers, there are books from independent Irish presses and self-published artists, and the gallery hosts a constantly changing programme of exhibitions and launches. Arrive looking for a photography book and leave with an artist's zine, a limited-edition print or a notebook from a designer you've never heard of. Worth a visit for anyone interested in contemporary visual culture. thelibraryproject.ie Vibes & Scribes Lavitt's Quay, Cork One of Cork's best-loved independent retailers, Vibes & Scribes has grown from a small second-hand bookshop into a cultural institution. Family-owned and run, it occupies several adjoining premises packed with everything from rare and collectable books to new music releases, vinyl, board games, stationery and gifts. The second-hand section is particularly rewarding for anyone who likes the thrill of stumbling across a book they'd never otherwise find, while regular author events and book launches have helped cement the shop's place in Cork's literary scene. vibesandscribes.ie Neil Goodman. owner of Volume Records and Books in Dún Laoghaire. Pictire:Mark Condren © Mark Condren Volume Records & Books Dún Laoghaire, Co Dublin Billing itself as south Dublin's only independent record and bookshop, Volume's shelves mix new and second-hand records with an impressive selection of books, covering everything from fiction and music to politics, history and children's titles. Comfortable seating encourages customers to linger, while regular live performances, signings and community events have made it as much a meeting place as a retail business. It's proof that physical record shops can still thrive when they become centres of culture rather than just places to buy music. volumerecords.ie The R.A.G.E. (Record, Art and Game Emporium) Temple Bar, Dublin Where else can you buy a rare vinyl pressing, a Nintendo GameCube classic and a Japanese action figure without leaving the same building? The aptly named Record, Art and Game Emporium combines three specialist shops under one roof and has become a pilgrimage site for collectors. Vinyl records share space with retro video games, consoles, comics, artwork and pop-culture memorabilia, attracting everyone from seasoned collectors hunting elusive treasures to tourists seeking out local favourites. Whether you're looking for an obscure Sega Saturn title or a first vinyl pressing, there's a decent chance somebody behind the counter knows where to find it. therage.ie Bell, Book and Candle Sea Road, Galway For lovers of previously loved books, vinyl and classic films, Bell, Book and Candle has been quietly delighting Galway browsers for decades. Floor-to-ceiling shelves hold thousands of previously loved books spanning every imaginable subject, while thoughtfully organised sections of records and DVDs reward anyone prepared to spend time searching. This is the kind of shop that encourages slow browsing rather than hurried shopping, and every visit will yield some unexpected purchase. Equal parts bookshop, record shop and treasure hunt, it has become one of Galway's enduring independent institutions. @bellbookcandlegalway InDub Reggae Store Bolton Street, Dublin For more than 25 years, InDub Reggae Store, located inside Get Up & Grow, has served Ireland's reggae community, and is believed to be the country's only specialist reggae retailer. It stocks a large range of vinyl, CDs and merchandise covering reggae, dub, ska, dancehall and roots music from Jamaica and beyond. It attracts collectors searching for hard-to-find releases alongside DJs looking for new sounds, and has become an important cultural meeting point for Ireland's reggae scene. The shop has helped introduce generations of listeners to music that rarely finds space on mainstream shelves, and even makes a brief appearance in the 2023 Disney+ documentary Bono & The Edge: A Sort of Homecoming with Dave Letterman. facebook.com Steamboat Music Bishop's Quay, Limerick A favourite with musicians and collectors alike, Steamboat combines an independent record shop with a well-stocked musical instrument shop under one roof. Alongside racks of vinyl and CDs sit comics, collectables and an impressive range of guitars, keyboards, drums and accessories, while the workshop repairs and services instruments for both amateurs and professionals. Regular in-store performances, particularly around Record Store Day, have helped establish Steamboat as one of Limerick's musical hubs, making it a venue as well as a shop. steamboat.ie HD Comics Market Parade, Cork Located in Market Parade close to the English Market in Cork, HD Comics opened in February 2026 and is the first dedicated comic shop to open in Cork since Comic Vault closed almost three years ago. Stocked with single-issue comics, omnibuses and back issues, it's small but provides comic fans in Cork with a local hotspot to check out what's new and interesting. Opened by comic enthusiasts, it's a good spot to ask advice and get recommendations to help broaden your collection. Well worth a visit. @hdcomicscompany Uncanny Collectibles Ballymount Road Upper, Dublin If your interests lean towards Star Wars, Marvel, DC, anime or movie memorabilia, Uncanny Collectibles has become one of Ireland's premier destinations. Although best known as an online retailer, enthusiasts can visit its Ballymount premises by appointment to browse a big collection of action figures, premium statues, prop replicas and limited-edition collectables. Many pieces are produced in strictly limited numbers, making the shop particularly popular with serious collectors searching for elusive items unlikely to appear on ordinary toy shop shelves. The sort of place where childhood nostalgia meets museum-quality craftsmanship. uncannycollectibles.com The Book Centre Barronstrand Street, Waterford Housed inside a beautifully repurposed Art Deco cinema, The Book Centre has been part of Waterford's cultural life for generations. Still family-run, it combines the welcoming atmosphere of a traditional independent bookshop with an extensive range of fiction, children's books, Irish interest titles and stationery. The building itself is almost as much of an attraction as the books, retaining echoes of its cinematic past while serving as one of Ireland's most distinctive literary spaces. thebookcentre.ie Dublin City Comics Capel Street, Dublin Whether you're searching for the latest issue of Batman, an obscure independent graphic novel or the newest manga release, Dublin City Comics has become one of the capital's essential stops for comic fans. Weekly deliveries ensure Marvel, DC, Image and many smaller publishers are always well represented, while knowledgeable staff are on hand to guide newcomers through a medium that can sometimes feel intimidating. Collectables, graphic novels and merchandise complete the offering, making for a shop that's just as open to parents introducing a new generation to comics as it is to lifelong enthusiasts. dublincitycomics.ie Red Books St Peter's Square, Wexford Bookshops don't come much more individual than Red Books in Wexford. Specialising in quirky, previously loved, antiquarian and collectable books, it also publishes its own titles and produces two literary arts journals, making it a publisher as well as retailer. Its curated shelves will reward readers looking for unusual finds rather than bestseller lists, with everything from Irish history and poetry to obscure travel writing and forgotten fiction waiting to be discovered. For bibliophiles, it represents the sort of fiercely independent bookselling that has become increasingly rare and all the more valuable because of it. @redbookswexford Read more Go Ireland: 100 places to eat, sleep, sip and explore in 2026, including 'the best-value hour I spent in a week'