The gem of the Emerald Isle, Dublin is celebrated as one of the friendliest and happiest cities in the world. The city’s strong sense of community and social culture is exemplified through its pub scene – a relaxed and friendly meeting place for locals and tourists alike to share stories and enjoy a drink.
The pubs in Dublin have an unrivalled atmosphere, and those visiting the city would not want to miss out on the experience. Below are our recommendations for the 8 best pubs and bars in Dublin.
Best For: Food
After work drinks in Dublin would not be complete without a traditional pub meal to go with. Just a short walk from Portobello, 57 The Headline is an authentic gastro pub serving a selection of craft beers, cocktails, and wines. It also has an extensive food menu ranging from traditional pub grub to authentic Mexican food – have a browse of the menu on their website.
Best For: Music
Labelled ‘the spiritual home of traditional music in Dublin’, O’Donoghue’s Bar in Dublin is renowned for its live music. The Dubliners, one of the most famous Irish folk acts, got their start at O’Donoghue’s in 1962, and this earnt the bar its reputation as a traditional music mecca.
Seven days a week, the bar hosts live performances – starting at 5pm on Saturdays and 9pm every other night. As one of the most popular pubs in Dublin, you’ll need to get there early to ensure you get a seat.
Best For: Entertainment
Token Restaurant and Bar offers diners an unforgettably fun experience as Dublin’s only arcade bar. It has 40 arcade and pinball machines, three fully stocked bars and award-winning food options. It also regularly hosts cinema screenings and guests can even get involved in its pinball league. To ensure you get a table, it’s best to make a reservation on their website.
Another unmissable bar in Dublin, Jackie’s takes patrons back to the nostalgic 90’s. It regularly hosts themed brunches – such as ‘Spice Girls vs. Britney’ and ‘Now That’s What I Call 90s’ – and has a unique selection of cocktails to choose from. Whether you fancy a cult classic or comical combo like the Basil Brush Smash and Calpol 18+, Jackie’s memory lane bar has a little something for everyone. To see their full drinks menu or make a reservation, visit their website.
Best For: History
The Brazen Head is the oldest pub in Ireland and the 5th oldest in the world. It’s over 800 years old and is steeped in Irish history and tradition. Renowned authors such as Brendan Behan and James Joyce favoured the tavern; it even gets its own mention in Ulysses! It has a rich historical past, and the ghosts of old customers are said to still give their favourite pub a visit every now and then.
Nowadays, it’s a popular spot for live music and has welcomed performances from the likes of musical greats U2 and Tom Jones. For after work drinks in Dublin with a historical twist, there’s no better place to be than in the city’s oldest pub.
Best For: Tradition
The Stag’s Head lies in the heart of the city centre and, established in the 1770s, has a notoriously warm and authentic Irish feel. Considered the ‘best preserved Victorian pub’ in Dublin, the interior is characterised by its distinctive mahogany fittings, marble floors, and stained-glass windows.
There’s never a dull evening at The Stag’s Head. Irish Folklore and Storytelling is hosted every Tuesday and Thursday, live traditional Irish music is enjoyed until late every Friday and Saturday, and the pub hosts its own stand-up comedy club every Sunday and Monday.
Best For: Scenery
The perfect way to enjoy after-work drinks in Dublin, Johnnie Fox’s Pub and Restaurant and The Blue Light both offer a traditional pub experience complete with the most picturesque views.
Established in 1798, Johnnie Fox’s Pub and Restaurant is renowned as the highest pub in the country. Located in the heart of Glencullen village and surrounded by the scenic Dublin Mountains, this pub offers a particularly picturesque view. Its restaurant specialises in seafood and European cuisine using ingredients from local suppliers, and it also has its own bakery where fresh breads and desserts are baked daily.
Also situated within the Dublin Mountains, The Blue Light is a traditional Irish pub with incomparable views of the countryside. It serves food seven days a week and offers live music from 9pm every night. Take a look at all they have to offer on their website.
There are lots of pubs to explore during your stay in Dublin, ranging from traditional Irish pubs to arcade bars and nostalgic 90s-themed cocktail bars. Restaurants more your style? Check out our blog on The 6 Best Restaurants for Business Meals in Dublin.
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