Dublin Food Tour: Le Gazin first authentic Somali restaurant

SPONSORED CONTENT HALAL STATUS Fully Halal

Somali restaurant Le Gazin is proof that in Dublin, opportunity flourishes for those who work with passion and determination.

Having been founded over 15 years ago by their father, one of the pioneers of Somali cuisine in the Irish capital, this place is now run by his two sons Ali and Ahmed.

Located on Dorset Street Upper in Rotunda, this modern, 80-cover restaurant is beautifully decked out, with comfortable boothed seating split equally across two floors.

Celebrating the rich flavors of traditional Somali cuisine, Le Gazin is a popular destination spot that draws people from all over the city.

What makes this restaurant truly one of a kind is that its fully Halal menu revolves around a select number of beloved staples.

These include among others the classic Haniid, Lamb Shank, Beef and Chicken Steaks, Suqaar, and Soor, as well as family platters designed for two people all the way up to a party of five.

Somali cuisine at its finest in the heart of Dublin

If a picture could tell a story, the above spread would be more than enough to justify Le Gazin’s reputation as a leading restaurant in Dublin.

One of their best sellers is undoubtedly the Haniid, which has a beautifully tender, slow-cooked lamb shoulder served with aromatic rice along with an assortment of vegetables.

The secret behind this mouth-watering item is the marination of the lamb, which comprises a fragrant blend of saffron and Somali spices to deliver an unforgettable dish.

The popular Somali dish Suqaar is definitely one to try, with tender pieces of lamb cubes infused in gentle spices, which have to be had with a portion of their Sabaayad flatbread.

And who can go wrong with a choice of chicken and beef steaks served with either rice or spaghetti for just €14.99 each.

With the Chicken Steak available either as grilled or pan-fried, this is seasoned and prepared in traditional Somali spices, fresh garlic, and sauteed peppers.

Otherwise, the Beef Steak is thinly sliced, before again being marinated in complementary spices that bring out its umami taste, with spaghetti the perfect accompaniment.

If you’re looking for a non-meat alternative, then you’d be remiss not to try their baked salmon fillet that’s expertly infused in traditional spices with coriander and lime, and served with rice, roast potatoes and vegetables.

Le Gazin also do a number of desserts including the well-known Malaweh that has a sweet crepe being served with sliced banana, honey or hazelnut.

But it’s their attractive-looking Tiramisu that’s the crowd pleaser, with coffee soaked lady fingers and mascarpone going beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Le Gazin
60 Dorset Street Upper, Rotunda, Dublin 1, D01 K6W6.

T: +353 (0)85 225 1922 | W: @legazinrestaurant

Opening Hours: Mon-Sun 06:00-23:00