Best of Dublin – My City – Florence Okojie

What do you like best about Dublin?
I love how diverse it is. The city is a melting pot of different cultures and communities, and I love how we embrace them all. It also amazes me that, even with over a million people, you somehow always end up bumping into a friendly face. For such a big city, it’s also quite small at the same time, which I love.

What do you think is the most iconic thing about modern Dublin?
It’s hard to pin down just one thing, but I’d say it’s how there’s so much to do. A night out around places like Drury Street, South William Street or Fade Street will show you how vibrant the city is. Plus, there’s tonnes of live music spots all across the city. I also love how there are so many outdoor dining spaces now.

Where is your favourite place to eat?
Masa on Drury Street definitely takes the crown for me. It’s perfect for a quick lunch, but it’s also a great spot to head in the evening with friends for some drinks. For something a bit simpler, Bambino is my guilty pleasure. There’s a reason it’s so popular – their hot pep pizza slices are a must.

Masa

What’s your favourite shop in Dublin?
I don’t do that much in-person shopping to be honest, but Dundrum Shopping Centre would probably be my favourite, especially during the winter months when they start hanging up the Christmas decorations. It’s a beautiful place even just to window-shop.

Where do you shop for clothes?
Anyone who knows me, knows I’m constantly in Zara. There are also lots of nice random shops around Temple Bar I pop into occasionally for t-shirts or jumpers. I also love browsing on Depop – there’s no better feeling than finding a unique piece for a bargain price.

Favourite Dublin building?
Malahide Castle & Gardens is stunning – I spent a lot of summer days there as a child with my family. Going into Avoca and then relaxing in the gardens afterwards is such a perfect way to spend the day.

Your Dublin music?
My music taste is pretty varied, and the Dublin music scene has so many talented new artists. It’s been great to see lots of Black and Nigerian-Irish artists gaining recognition, especially as Afrobeat has surged in popularity over the past few years. But after my weekend at the Cork Jazz Festival, I have to give a special shout-out to a Dublin brass-funk band, The New Brass Kings – they were so good.

Favourite Dublin neighbourhood?
I actually have two favourite neighbourhoods. First up is Vico Road in Dalkey – the houses are beautiful and the view over Killiney is absolutely stunning. Plus, the famous Vico Baths are just down the road, which is the main reason why I love the area so much. A close runner-up is Herbert Park. I love the red brick Victorian homes, and in spring, all the cherry blossom trees make the whole area look incredible. It’s such a lovely spot for a stroll.

Herbert Park

What is your most loved spot in Dublin to catch some me-time?
Fernhill Park & Gardens in Stepaside, for sure. I’m very grateful that I live just around the corner, because it’s such a hidden gem. It’s a peaceful spot to enjoy a coffee or a book if you want to be surrounded by nature, and since it’s en route to the Ticknock Mountains, you’re not too far away from the Dublin Mountains if you fancy a hike. It became a real safe haven for me during the pandemic.

Where is your favourite place to bring friends/family when they visit Dublin?
I don’t have one particular place to be honest, as all the places I’ve mentioned are favourite spots I’ve brought my friends and family to already. However, one I haven’t mentioned that’s definitely a must is the Phoenix Park – especially if you’re a fan of deer.

• Florence Okojie presents news2day, RTÉ’s news for children, weekdays on RTÉ 2 and RTÉ Player.
• Featured in Hot Press "Best of Dublin" available down below