Traditional Irish food is served in Irish pubs across regions including North America and Europe. Specific foods, such as soda bread and the Irish breakfast, have been served in Ireland for centuries. Although many people may be most familiar with famous beverages such as Irish whiskey and Guinness stout, there are some famous Irish foods that are a must-try.

Irish Breakfast

Traditional Irish breakfasts are known for having unusually large selections and grand amounts of food. Items include black pudding (otherwise known as blood sausage) and white pudding (combined oatmeal and pork sausage cooked together). A typical Irish breakfast consists of fried eggs, sausage, bacon, a slice of tomato, black pudding and white pudding.


The Irish consume more potatoes than most countries in the world, according to Food by Country. Colcannon is a famous Irish potato dish, which is typically whole or chopped potatoes cooked in onions, cream, butter and cabbage.

Soda Bread

Ireland is known for its homemade soda bread, which has a crusty consistency and is made from whole-wheat flour and buttermilk. Spices, herbs and fruits can be added to the bread to vary the flavor or to add some spice. Additions that provide extra depth and flavor can include currants, berries, caraway seeds, red pepper, fresh rosemary or thyme. Anything added usually depends on the region and on what is in season.

Irish Stew

Because Ireland is an island, many dishes contain fresh seafood. This is particularly true with stew, which plays an important role in the Irish diet and has been a national dish for more than 200 years. Almost anything can be thrown into stew (a fact especially helpful during days of famine). In an Irish stew, the sauce is thick and hearty, usually made with cream. Potatoes, cabbage and other vegetables are simmered in the sauce. Meat (lamb, beef, pork) and seafood (salmon, lobster, mussels) are typically added to the mix.

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