On Time Out's annual list, which ranks the best places for fun, food, culture, and community based on responses from thousands of city dwellers, the northside location was surpassed only by Laureles in Medellín, Colombia.
In its sixth year, the journal has compiled a shortlist of the '40 trendiest neighbourhoods in the world' for 2023 by tallying over 12,000 votes and speaking with numerous local personalities.
The global media company claims that Smithfield's activism, history, and innovative new projects helped it make the list.
The team claims that in order to compile and order the final list, they took into account many aspects such as active community and social projects, availability of open spaces, and a bustling street scene.
Journalist Kate Demolder noted that Smithfield "represents the Dublin that refuses to disappear," referring to the Irish listing. This Dublin 7 district is a place where activism and tradition converge, where exciting new businesses coexist with long-standing mainstays."
A stay at The Generator, a flat white and a Cardi B (a brioche bun flavoured with cardamom) from Proper Order, a trip towards Phoenix Park to see some deer, and a few games at Token arcade comprise Demolder's ideal day in Smithfield.
"Grabbing a snug at Frank Ryans or making a night of it at The Complex" should be the next step, followed by an independent film at the Light House Cinema and dinner at Fish Shop.
Time Out's Coolest Neighbourhoods for 2023
1. Laureles: Medellin, Colombia
2. Smithfield: Dublin, Ireland
3. Carabanchel: Madrid, Spain
4. Havnen: Copenhagen, Denmark
5. Sheung Wan: Hong Kong
6. Brunswick East: Melbourne, Australia
7. Mid-City, New Orleans
8. Isola: Milan, Italy
9. West: Amsterdam, Netherlands
10. Tomigaya: Tokyo, Japan