This week we’re casting our spotlight on Rathmines. While Rathmines was once a slightly gritty area with a main street dotted with dodgy chippers, it’s really had a revival over the last 5 years and there’s creative vibe breezing through the neighbourhood.

Exciting new businesses have been opening up in Rathmines left, right and centre. You can enjoy free art exhibitions in the old fire station, great food at every corner, enjoy a great night out at some buzzing pubs and stock up on delicious food for the week at the many different independent food stores.

Our top picks of places to visit in Rathmines are:

• Manifesto for one of the best pizzas in Dublin… I can personally attest to their deliciousness
• JoBurger for sky-high burgers with the most interesting fillings. Emmental cheese and peach curry sauce may sound pretentious or weird, but trust me it’s incredible.
• The most delicious, calorie laden cheese toastie you could dream for located in The Martcade, it’s not just a food hall but a community space for comedy and music gigs in the evening.
• If you want to stock up on good food for the week then you need to get acquainted with Lawlor’s Butchers which is my favourite butchers in the city
• The Hopsack in the Swan Centre is my go-to shop for all things healthy and foodie. It’s a total hidden gem.
• The Blackbird (previously Rathmines Inn) only opened up this summer and is absolutely jointed every night of the week. It get’s a really young alternative crowd.
• You could have a post work pint with the Soundwave crew in Mother Reilly's
• Art exhibitions can be enjoyed in The Mart, located in the old fire station
• Abner Browns barber shop cuts hair by day and hosts music gigs at night.

All photos were taken by Derek Kennedy.