Ireland
Most US tech companies have their European HQ in Dublin. Behind that is a real Irish economy — Stripe (Collison brothers, Limerick origins), Intercom, Kerry Group, Glanbia, Ryanair, and a craft food and drink industry that goes far beyond Guinness.
Below: Irish brands worth choosing over US or Chinese defaults.
Hostelworld
The budget traveler’s best friend. Hostelworld connects backpackers and students with the best hostel stays across Europe. From social dorms to private rooms, it’s a perfect option for those looking for affordability and community.
https://www.hostelworld.com
Insomnia
Known for: Premium, freshly-roasted 100 % Fairtrade coffee, handcrafted espresso drinks, teas, shakes, sandwiches, wraps, paninis, pastries, and snacks served in modern, welcoming cafés.
Available in: Ireland and the UK—with over 160 cafés and more than 500 self-service outlets
Supermac's
Known for: A local Irish chain first started in the 60's and only recently won a trademark dispute with McDonalds to allow them to sell their Mac branded products in Europe. Burgers, Chips, Fried Chicken and milkshakes.
Available in: Over 100 locations across Ireland and Northern Ireland. Supermac's has expressed interest in expanding to other European countries.
Employees: Approximately 2,500 as of 2024
Guinness
Ownership: Diageo plc (UK), breweries in Ireland & Africa
Beer brands: Guinness, Hop House 13, Kilkenny, Tusker (Kenya), Serengeti (Tanzania)
Employees (Europe): ~5,000
Production: ~25M hl
Key markets: Ireland, UK, Nigeria, US, Africa
Irish Coffee
What's in it: Hot coffee, Irish whiskey, brown sugar, topped with a layer of lightly whipped cream that floats. Drink the coffee through the cream — never stir.
Where it's from: Shannon Airport restaurant, 1943. Invented by chef Joe Sheridan to warm cold transatlantic passengers. Imported to San Francisco by a journalist in 1952.
When to drink it: After dinner. After a walk in the rain. After anything cold or sad.
The case: Dessert, coffee, and a digestif in one glass. The original espresso martini, but with more emotional depth.