La Peniche- The Restaurant That Will Float Your Boat

Step aboard La Peniche, a hidden gem on Dublin’s historic Grand Canal, where a culinary adventure awaits, as you dine on top-of-the-range food and drink while sailing along the waterfront. French for “The Barge,” La Peniche is a restored classic cargo barge known as the MV Riasc, nestled between locks C4 and C5 on the Grand Canal.

Originally a vital part of Ireland’s transport network, the MV Riasc found new life after being lovingly restored by its current owners following the cessation of commercial canal operations in the 1960s. Today, this historic vessel resides on Mespil Road, just a stone’s throw away from St. Stephen’s Green, serving as Dublin’s premier floating restaurant and event venue.

Guests can savour top-quality lunch and dinner options at La Peniche, with the option to book the entire boat for special occasions such as corporate events, weddings, or stag/hen parties.

The highlight of the experience is undoubtedly the cruising dinners, offering a unique opportunity to witness the barge sailing through locks and under 18th-century bridges, all while enjoying a delicious meal at your table.

The restaurant welcomes walk-ins seven days a week, opening at 12:30 daily and closing at 21:00 on Sundays to Thursdays, and at 23:00 on Fridays and Saturdays. For those seeking an exclusive dining experience, private parties can be arranged for a memorable evening onboard the MV Riasc – a truly unforgettable setting for any celebration.

Recently, Paul and I dined aboard La Peniche, opting for the €49 dinner special. I was delighted with my starter of Salmon Gravlax followed by a main course of Seabass, while Paul indulged in a cheeseboard to start, followed by a hearty serving of Beef Bourguignon.

The evening concluded with two of our favourite desserts (Chocolate Salted Caramel and New York Cheesecake) paired expertly with their wine counterparts, creating a perfect ending to a memorable dining experience on the Grand Canal.

Experience a restaurant like no other at La Peniche, where history, ambience, and gourmet cuisine converge to create an unforgettable time on the waters of the Grand Canal. For more information click here.