Whether you’re waving the Banner or taking on the Rebels, you’ll need to make sure you have enough to eat, drink, and entertain yourself before and after the big showdown in the capital.

PLACES TO EAT NEAR CROKE PARK

These reliable spots all serve delicious food and are within walking distance of Croke Park:

Russell St Bakery, Russell St, Dublin 1

One of Dublin’s favourite new bakeries is unassumingly located behind Croke Park at the top of Jones Road. Russell St Bakery is an unassuming powerhouse in its own right. Small but mighty, it pumps out world-class pastries, breads, treats and coffee with the help of Dublin’s Imbibe roasters.

From pistachio-stuffed cromboloni to silky flat whites, this is the perfect place for a pre-match caffeine and treat.

El Grito, Mountjoy Square, Dublin 1

If you have something to celebrate or want to show your condolences, reserve a table at Mountjoy’s El Grito. The basement taqueria has plenty of room for you and your friends, and the menu of Mexican food and drinks is affordable and delicious.

It may be a far cry from a traditional All-Ireland dinner of pints followed by Supermacs, but the atmosphere at El Grito always keeps the party going. A few tacos and frozen margaritas later and you’ll be laughing — no matter the final score.

Da Mimmo, North Strand, Dublin 3

Serving authentic Italian cuisine since 2010, North Strand’s neighborhood restaurant comes highly recommended.

Their repertoire includes (but is certainly not limited to) arancini, Aperol spritz, rustic carbonara pizzas and heavenly ribbons of tagliatelle with a thick layer of ragù.

It’s the kind of place where, as you walk past and the front door swings open, you wonder how so many people fit in at once, wishing you were there yourself. Get a reservation and avoid the disappointment of a soggy bag of chips after the game.

Juno, Dorset St, Dublin 1

Juno is a great example of how it can be good to be a jack of all trades.

On the Royal Canal, this is one of the best pubs in the area. Not only does it serve great cocktails, pints and food – Irish classics like fish supper and black pudding are given a bit of a modern twist – it’s also a buzzing place with plenty of space for you and your crew.

They also serve Beamish.

Fagan’s, Drumcondra Rd, Dublin 9

Fagan’s of Drumcondra is a popular pub owned by Bertie Ahern and is a place that offers something for everyone. It doesn’t matter how old you are, how picky you are, or what color shirt you wear, Fagan’s extensive and diverse bar menu has something for everyone.

The quality of their pints and service is excellent, plus there’s plenty of space inside and out — weather permitting.

Yeeros, Drumcondra Rd, Dublin 9

We know that life often doesn’t go exactly to plan, especially on a day as crucial as the All-Ireland final.

Murphy’s Law will prevail, your match buddy will decide they don’t want anything “exotic”, you’ll cut it too finely and won’t have time to sit down and eat. Enter: Yeeros.

This Greek souvlaki restaurant has three locations in Dublin. The casual offering features fresh fillings, served in a fresh pita, filled with fluffy, curled chips. It’s a satisfying dish that’s also easy to eat on the go.

One Association, Gardiner St, Dublin 1

The brunch lines tell you all you need to know about this vibrant neighborhood spot. Laid-back, friendly, and—most importantly—walk-ins only, One Society is the perfect game-day destination.

Just a short walk from Croker you can find their pancakes or roast breakfast sandwiches, essential fuel for a match day.

After the game, take a quick stroll there to avoid the crowds and enjoy excellent wood-fired pizza, pasta and fine wines that will put a smile on your face, win, lose or draw.

(MOSTLY) FREE THINGS TO DO IN DUBLIN ON SATURDAYS

Hugh Lane Gallery, Parnell Square North, Dublin 1

The Hugh Lane Gallery is an oasis of calm and culture, just off the hustle and bustle of O’Connell St and Parnell St. It is a jewel in the crown of North Dublin.

With constantly changing exhibitions, an interactive reconstruction of Francis Bacon’s studio and a great café downstairs, this is the ideal place for a dose of culture on a Saturday afternoon in the Big Shmoke.

National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin, Dublin 9

Speaking of oases, a short bus ride or city bike ride will have you in no time at all in the botanical sanctuary of North Dublin.

Come along for the daily tour, or come up with your own idea and see who can come up with the funniest plant names.

A short stay in the humid, iconic, curved greenhouses will make all your pre-match worries disappear.

Bull Island, Clontarf, Dublin 3

A rule of thumb when I travel is: Always pack the togs. You never know when the sea will call.

Head to Clontarf’s outdoor social hub, Bull Island, for a nerve-cleansing dose of vitamin sea at Dollymount Strand. Take a dip — if you dare — or just watch others squeal as they take the plunge, smug and dry.

Grab a coffee or a toasted sandwich from the Happy Out café container and enjoy views of Dublin’s coast as you stroll along the sand.

Casino Marino, Marino, Dublin 3

This Georgian gem in Dublin 3 is often overlooked, even by most Dubliners.

Built in 1750 by Scottish architect William Chambers, the quirky heritage building resembles a Tardis: its deceptive size is an impressive feat of neoclassical architecture.

The casino (which in this case means ‘little house’) is modest in size but not in design. It’s a nice place to browse on a Saturday afternoon.

Howth Head, Howth, Co Dublin

No trip to the peninsular tip of North Dublin is ever a waste. Bring the Dart; whatever the weather, a clifftop walk around Howth Head is a great way to get the blood flowing and some fresh sea air in your lungs.

Again, it’s worth taking your swimwear with you in case you fancy a dip in one of Howth’s swimming spots.

And if you’ve forgotten the cling-wrapped ham sandwiches, King Sitric serves delicious seafood and creamy pints, overlooking the harbour.

WHERE TO STOP ON THE DRIVE TO/FROM CLARE OR CORK

Barack Obama Plaza, Moneygall

The king of intra-Ireland travel pitstops is Barack Obama Plaza. Not only are you greeted by a life-size Mr Tayto outside and a cut-out of the Obamas on the way in, but the food selection is ideal for the whole family.

Whether you fancy a carvery, a garlic cheese chip or just want to refuel, the food stalls and services make this a must-see for many driving to or from Dublin.

The old coffee roastery barracks, Birdhill

Great coffee doesn’t have to be an afterthought when making the pilgrimage to Dublin. Just off the M7 in North Tipp is where The Old Barracks serves a range of specialty coffees, drinks and snacks 7 days a week.

Treat yourself to the 15 minute break you deserve and relax in the beautiful conservatory with an expertly prepared cup of coffee.

Midway FoodCourt, Portlaoise

Another stop along the M7/M8 is the aptly named Midway FoodCourt.

The Bakewell opens at 6:30am for early risers, with Chopstix, Freshii, Burger King and Subway also available for late risers.

The Midway FoodCourt is open 24 hours a day and features electric vehicle charging stations, a drive-thru with Braeburn coffee, free Wi-Fi and laptop charging stations.