Whether you’re a student or not, I’m sure you can relate to budgeting and pinching pennies when it comes to dining. There are so many nights, though, that I am just way too exhausted to even think about cooking. Living in a booming, tourist-heavy city like Dublin, restaurants and eating out tends to be quite pricey, which always presents a problem when I am simply too unmotivated to step in to the kitchen. To solve this problem to some degree, I have gone on a mission to find the BEST student deals and values in town, which I am now here to share with you!
* Deal Diner * = one who constantly looks for the best, affordable, bang-for-your-buck meals and deals to make eating out somewhat affordable
Smokin’ Bones, Temple Bar
Ok, I have seriously been dying for some BBQ food since moving here, but was reluctant to risk it not being as good as I’m used to back home. After hearing about Smokin’ Bones, 
I decided I would give it a try, especially when I heard about their unbeatable Student
Discount!
For just 6.95, you can indulge in a main dish AND a side. I was actually quite shocked at how delicious everything I tried was – especially the nachos, dirty fries, and pulled pork! (Pro-tip: These have been the best nachos I have yet to find in Dublin!) Whatever you order… Be sure to try their signature Jameson Whiskey BBQ Sauce! I need to buy it by the bottle; seriously. SO. GOOD. Sauce Boss guarantee. 😉
Smokin Bones grew from a stall at Herbert Park Barbecue festival in 2014, and holds true to the authentic, “low-and-slow,” melt-in-your-mouth meats they have always been known for! If you’re looking for a fun, interactive, and delicious meal with a group of pals, check out their “FEASTING BIN LID PLATTER,” which includes: A Full Rack Of Baby Back Ribs, Spatchcock Chicken, Pulled Pork, Wings, Brisket, Slaw, Mac N Cheese, Corn On Cob, Onion Rings And A Huge Helping Of Our House Dirty Fries, Served On An 18″ Bin Lid. Next year’s birthday party, anyone??
Peking Asian Street Food
Discovering Peking was by sheer luck, because their closest location is inside Fresh Market in Smithfield (random, I know). The concept started back in 2003 when founder Xing Xue (an Irish immigrant from South China) was determined to offer authentic and
healthy Asian Street Food to Irish customers, using locally sourced ingredients. They now have over 30 locations nationwide with a wide variety of unique and traditional dishes available for takeaway or delivery.
Students and “deal diners” can take advantage of these awesome meal boxes currently offered! Upon first glance, the boxes may look a bit small; but don’t be deceived! They pack a good amount of rice or noodles and meat in each and every box.
I was blown away at how good the food truly was, considering that it is a fast-casual concept. I tried the Sweet n’ Sour Chicken with fried rice, Peking Roasted Duck, and Pad Thai and was equally delighted with each- particularly the Pad Thai! But… the main star? The ASIAN ZING CHICKEN! I completely understand why this dish is so highly recommended. I feel as if I should keep a monthly supply of this sauce-y, Chicken-y, delicious goodness in my freezer in case of a drastic snow storm… What do you think?
If you are looking for quick, authentic, delicious Chinese food without breaking the bank… Take the little walk over to Smithfield and get yourself some Peking Street Food!
More Spots Coming Soon!
Sauce Boss Shelby 