Even though Irish pubs are replicated all over the world, there’s no place like Ireland to experience the craic and enjoy a pint or two of Guinness. While the opening of more modern bars is on the rise, Dublin is full of great Irish pubs with a welcoming and warm atmosphere, comfy snugs and traditional Irish music. Don’t limit yourself to Temple Bar when you’re in Dublin, make sure you get out there and experience some authentic Irish pubs in and around Dublin city
Today we are sharing our own list of what we think are the 10 best Irish pubs in Dublin (in no particular order), to make sure you have the best experience (in additions to our food tours of course!).
The Stag’s Head
The Stag’s Head is a stunning Irish pub with carved Victorian mahogany fittings, mosaic marble tiled floors and granite tabletops. It is conveniently located in the city centre, just a few steps away from the busy Temple Bar area. On a warm summer day, you’ll find a crowd outside the Stag’s Head and Dame Lane becomes a very busy corner with people enjoying the Dublin nightlife. If you’re looking for something unusual go upstairs and attend ‘Ukulele Tuesday’ where dozens of ukulele players gather for a session every Tuesday from 8pm.
O’Neills
O’Neills is probably the most ‘touristy’ looking on our list and it’s a massive building. Stepping inside O’Neills feels a bit like entering a maze, with many rooms and levels. It is a great pub though with an amazing selection of Irish craft beers if you fancy something other than the black stuff. They also have a large beer garden upstairs.
Keogh’s
Keogh’s is just located on South Anne Street (just off Grafton Street) and was licensed in 1803. It’s a cosy pubs with original snugs and serves some of the best Guinness in the Irish capital. On sunny days, Dubliners stand outside Keogh’s in the afternoon to soak up the rays while enjoying a few pints.
The Long Hall
We have had a long time crush with the Long Hall on South Great Georges Street. This lovely traditional Irish pub is one of the few Vistorian pubs left in Dublin. In 2016 is celebrated its 250th birthday, as it as been serving pints to customers since 1766. Definitely one of the most beautiful pubs you can find on the island.
The Cobblestone
The Cooblestone is a bit outside the city centre but easy to access on foot or even with the Luas. This is the place you want to visit for the Irish craic with a side of trad music. Surely one of the most friendly pubs which describes itself as ‘a drinking pub with a music problem’. You’ll enjoy the music and the buzz there for sure!
Davy Byrne’s
Davy Byrne’s interior is a little different, it’s a beautiful art nouveau pub which opened on Duke Street in 1889. It’s Dublin most famous literary pub as James Joyce was a regular visitor and featured it in his novel, Ulysse’s. Many other Irish writers have drank in Davy Byrne’s over the years and it’s still a much loved instituion.
Toners
If you’re looking to experience Dublin’s nightlight, head over to Baggot Street which is filled with bars and pubs. One of the great Irish pubs on Baggot Street is Toners. A traditional Irish pub which dates from 1818. This multi-award winning Irish pub is welcoming and cosy with its great snug but is also brilliant for al fresco drinking in their backyard. Toner is also known to serve a great pint of Guinness.
Grogan’s
Grogan’s is a gem of a pub in the heart of the creative quarter of Dublin. While it isn’t as old as the most of the other pubs in this list it really feels like an authentic Irish pub frequented by locals. It’s a cosy place on a rainy day (or any other day as a matter of fact), known for serving a decent pint of Guinness and cheese toastie. Grogan’s have a few seats outside and when the weather is good you’ll find a lively atmosphere.
The Celt
Not really a ‘hidden gem’ as it is frequented by many tourists but the Celt is a great pub on the Northside of Dublin city centre. There’s always a friendly atmosphere, live music every night of the week from 9pm and the food is decent too. They have a spacious smoking area at the back.
The Brazen’s Head
It’s impossible not to mention the Brazen Head’s, officially (but disputed) the oldest pub in Ireland, dating all the way back to 1198. It’s only a short walk from Christchurch cathedral and not too far from the Guinness Storehouse. At the Brazen’s Head you’re guaranteed to have a good time wether you’re coming for a pint or to listen to some traditional Irish music.
What’s your favourite Irish pub in Dublin? Let us know in the comments
