Walking through the gates of Merrion Square this weekend, you’d be forgiven for thinking you have left Dublin far behind. Aromas alone take you on a cuisine journey around the world. Lamb mansaf from Shaku Maku brings a taste of Palestine to the heart of the city; samosas are expertly filled and folded at Pakistani restaurant Daata; and try the renowned Tai Fai dumplings at Bigfan’s stall. In addition to the international plate, Taste of Dublin features some of Ireland’s finest artisan produce. Among the bustling food talks, lively sample bars and the sounds of the swinging jazz band, there are chillies from Co Cork, vermouth from Valentia Island, craft beers from a distillery in Co Down and countless other local Irish food and drink offerings. Helma Larkin has just enjoyed the dumplings from Bigfan, and says it is her fourth time at the festival.“I love seeing what restaurants in Dublin come each year so I can try their food. I took a half day off work because I think it’s a really cool event,” Larkin says. “I like to come in the afternoon so I can really see the food, and before the crowds. I love it, I’m a bit of a foodie.”Behind Larkin is Anna and Orla Snook O’Carroll’s Valentia Island Vermouth stand – the country’s only authentic Irish vermouth. Valentina Island Vermouth owner Anna Snook O’Carroll at the Taste of Dublin 2026 in Merrion Square. Photograph: Chris Maddaloni/The Irish Times