Arriving 12/24 and need Christmas meal recommendations

Hi, I'm visiting Ireland 12/24/23 - 1/2/24 and am concerned about Christmas eve/day meals because I've learned that most places are closed from 5:30pm on the 24th and don't reopen until the 26th. We'll be driving from Dublin to Cork on the 24th and are staying in Cobh that evening. Would someone be able to recommend a place we can get the fixings for a meal along the way? We don't want to be stuck without food on Christmas eve/day. Thank you in advance for any advice/assistance you can provide!!

Hi Lori,

It's lovely to hear that you are with us for the Christmas and New Year!

The journey from Dublin to Cobh takes about 3 hours and uses the M7 motorway for most of the journey so depending on what time you land and leave Dublin will dictate when and where to buy your food to at least cover the Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

It sounds like you are staying in self-catering rather than a hotel. Hotels usually have food for their guests if they are open. There are several large supermarket outlets that will indeed usually close by 6 pm on the 24th. As you will be leaving Dublin along the N7, there is a possibility of some open stores around the area including Citywest shopping centre and some local Supervalu stores as well as in Swords close to the airport.

Have you asked your accommodation provider if there is a way to get food delivered maybe ahead of your arrival?

Hi Martin,
Thank you for the suggestions!  I've mapped out the route and both of your suggestions are along the way.  I've also sent emails to both SuperValu and Dunns to find out what their hours will be on Christmas Eve. As a backup plan, the owner of the rental in Cobh said that we can have groceries delivered, so we should be all set to have a nice holiday in your beautiful country!  Thank you so much for your help, we truly appreciate it!!
Merry Christmas!
Lori Mancini
Bristol, RI (USA)

Hi Lori,

Fantastic news!
Delighted to hear you've got everything sorted out and our suggestions fit right in. 😄

Smart move reaching out to SuperValu and Dunnes for Christmas Eve hours. You've got everything in hand!
And it's great that the Cobh rental owner is offering grocery delivery. It's a perfect backup plan.

Wishing you a splendid holiday in our beautiful land.
If you need any more tips or help along the way, don't hesitate to give a shout.

Merry Christmas and enjoy every moment of your time here! 🎄