The house at 15 Usher's Island on the Dublin quays, where James Joyce set The Dead, was officially opened last night following restoration, with a re-creation of the dinner scene from the famous story.
Over 80 guests celebrated both the 100th anniversary of the story and the opening of the Georgian house after three years of restoration work.
All the tables were lit by candlelight for the "Dinner of the Century".
James Joyce had dinner with his family in the house each year to celebrate the Feast of the Epiphany on January 6th, dining on a Christmas goose. The house belonged to his aunts, and he later drew on his memories of it when he was writing The Dead.
The house had fallen into dereliction over the last 20 years. It was then bought by a private investor, Mr Brendan Kilty, to secure its future.
Arriving at the dinner, Joyce's grandnephew, Mr Bob Joyce, said: "If James Joyce were here today he would be delighted. I think you can sense he is here in spirit."
Ms Laura Weldon, co-ordinator of Joyce Centenary celebrations, said: "This marks the start of a year of phenomenal James Joyce celebrations. I cannot think of a more wonderful launch."
Yesterday, before the dinner, guests had a private viewing in the art gallery on the ground floor of works by Gary Daly, Connor Regan and Paul Byrne.
Tours of the house are given every Saturday.
The tour takes about 45 minutes and the €5 donation goes to the restoration fund.