Irish neighbourhood named second coolest on the planet

Stephen Porzio

The area was also crowned the number one coolest in Europe.

Smithfield in Dublin has been named the second coolest neighbourhood in the world right now, as well as the number one coolest in Europe, by the magazine Time Out.

Every year, the publication calls on its international audience to nominate the areas of cities which they believe have the best mix of “cutting-edge culture, affordable great food and drink, street life, nightlife and community”.

For its 2023 list, more than 12,000 people were asked worldwide, with these selections then being narrowed down with “the insight and expertise of Time Out’s global network of city editors and local experts who know their hometowns better than anybody else”.

To create and rank the final list, the magazine said its editors considered factors including “community and social ventures, access to open and green space, and thriving street life”.

Smithfield

The Light House Cinema in Smithfield was singled out for praise by Time Out

As for what made Smithfield – which is located in the north of Dublin city centre – the second coolest neighbourhood worldwide, Time Out said:

“Smithfield’s charm lies in its authenticity, with old and new independent establishments co-existing and thriving – from the iconic Cobblestone pub, the heart of traditional Irish music in Dublin, to new ventures like Third Space, a social enterprise café.

“With a post-industrial vibe, there’s no shortage of things to do to keep locals and visitors busy all day: after a flat white and cardamom bun at Proper Order, catch an indie film at the Light House Cinema before heading to dinner at Fish Shop, a tiny seafood restaurant with a killer wine list.”

Other Smithfield locations singled out for praise by Time Out included the hostel Generator, the pub Frank Ryans, the retro arcade/restaurant Token and the live arts venue The Complex.

Taking the top spot, meanwhile, was Laureles in Medellín, Colombia, while rounding out the top five alongside Smithfield was Carabanchel in Madrid, Spain; Havnen in Copenhagen, Denmark; and Sheung Wan in Hong Kong.

For the list of Time Out’s top 40 coolest neighbourhoods in the world, scroll below. You can find more details on why these areas made the grade by visiting the magazine’s website right here.