Culture & heritage · 7 picks · Updated
“You'll have a cup of tea.” “Ah no, I'm grand.” “You will, you will.” If you know the dance, you're in the right place. This list is for the families who keep the good biscuits hidden for visitors, take 45 minutes to say goodbye at the front door, and settle the Barry's-versus-the-other-one debate with the seriousness of a constitutional matter.
Every pick links to Amazon for the current price. How we choose. We may earn a commission from links. Disclosure.
Picking a tea brand in an Irish family is picking a side. This one's on the Barry's side.
Real-life use: The endless pots of tea at every visit, wake, celebration and “quick” catch-up.
Check price on AmazonA cable-knit wool blanket from Aran Woollen Mills, made in Ireland, for the couch, the armchair and the person who's always “perished.”
Real-life use: Couch throw for rainy nights, or the bed's extra layer in winter.
Check price on AmazonHands for friendship, heart for love, crown for loyalty. And the rule about which way it faces is a whole conversation.
Real-life use: A meaningful anniversary, graduation or Christmas gift that's actually handmade in Dublin.
Check price on AmazonBrown bread without the ten-step argument over whose granny's recipe is right. Just add milk.
Real-life use: Warm soda bread with butter alongside soup or a fry-up.
Check price on AmazonHundreds of home-cooking recipes, for the American cousin who thinks Irish food stops at corned beef.
Real-life use: Stews, breads and Christmas baking straight from Irish home kitchens.
Check price on AmazonRecipes from the famous brewery, for the one who already has the pint glass.
Real-life use: Stew, brown bread and baking with a stout twist.
Check price on AmazonTwo glasses, one word, every toast sorted.
Real-life use: A housewarming or anniversary gift for celebrating the big moments.
Check price on AmazonPairs well with
Tea, brown bread and a blanket. That's the whole evening.
Pairs well with
Glasses and a cookbook for the hosting crowd.
Save it for later
Saving ideas for later, or sending a not-so-subtle hint? Pin it or share it with the group chat.