Steak and wine lovers looking for standout food Ireland news have a new reason to book a table in Dublin. F.X. Buckley has once again earned international praise, holding on to Wine Spectator’s Best of Award of Excellence for 2026 and reinforcing its place among the best restaurants Ireland has for a top-tier dining experience.
The award marks the fourth consecutive year that the Dublin steakhouse group has been recognised for the strength of its wine programme. After first receiving Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence in 2022, F.X. Buckley moved up to the higher-tier Best of Award of Excellence in 2023 and has kept that distinction ever since.
F.X. Buckley Delivers More Good News for the Food Ireland Scene
For anyone following the food Ireland and Dublin food scene, this latest win is a meaningful one. Wine Spectator’s awards are globally respected in hospitality, and retaining the honour signals consistency, depth and serious attention to detail.
At the heart of the programme are Master of Wine Alan Crowley and F.X. Buckley Director Brian Buckley, who have built a list designed to match the restaurant’s celebrated steaks while also giving diners variety across different budgets and styles.
According to the team, the goal has always been simple: source excellent bottles at every price point and make the wine journey just as memorable as the meal. That approach has helped F.X. Buckley remain a benchmark name in Dublin restaurants, best fine dining Ireland conversations and many an Ireland restaurant guide.
- First recognised by Wine Spectator in 2022
- Upgraded to Best of Award of Excellence in 2023
- Retained the higher award through 2024, 2025 and now 2026
- Celebrated for quality, range and food pairing value
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A Wine List Built for Steak, Discovery and Dublin Dining
What makes the list stand out is not just prestige, but range. F.X. Buckley’s cellar reportedly spans classic and emerging wine regions, giving guests access to familiar favourites and more adventurous pours. France, Italy and Spain all feature strongly, alongside newer-world selections from countries such as the USA, Australia, Lebanon and South Africa.
One highlight is the restaurant’s Bordeaux collection, which includes a broad range of classic chateaux. The Italian side of the list is another talking point, with wines sourced from across Italy, including sought-after Super Tuscans that appeal to serious collectors and curious diners alike.
There is also an exclusive South African link in the mix. The Buckley team’s Webersburg range, discovered during a private tasting by Managing Director Stephen Buckley, includes:
- A crisp Sauvignon Blanc
- The popular Bastiaan Cabernet and Merlot blend
- An elegant Cabernet Sauvignon
That combination of exclusivity and accessibility helps explain why F.X. Buckley continues to feature in discussions around restaurant reviews Ireland, best food Dublin, and Ireland food recommendations for special occasions.
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Why This Matters for Diners
In practical terms, this award tells diners they can expect more than a steakhouse meal. It points to a carefully considered experience where the wine list is treated as a core part of the menu, not an afterthought. For locals planning a celebration, visitors searching for places to eat Ireland, or anyone building an Ireland dining guide, F.X. Buckley remains a strong contender.
It also reflects the broader strength of the Ireland food scene. Irish diners are increasingly seeking thoughtful pairings, knowledgeable service and lists that cater both to enthusiasts and people simply wanting a great glass with dinner. Awards like this show that Dublin can compete confidently on the international stage.
Final Takeaway
For followers of food Ireland, this is exactly the kind of restaurant news worth paying attention to. F.X. Buckley’s 2026 Wine Spectator honour confirms that its reputation is not built on name alone, but on years of sustained excellence in hospitality, wine curation and memorable dining. If you are updating your shortlist of the best restaurants Ireland has to offer, this Dublin favourite has given you one more very good reason to go.
Article/Image Courtesy: EVOKE
