Are you planning a trip to Dublin and wondering where to find the best spots for a pint and a bite? Dublin is a city celebrated for its storied past and dynamic culture, but what you may not know is that it’s also a haven for those who relish good food and great drinks.
This guide is your ticket to the top 10 bars in the city, each offering its unique twist on culinary excellence and beverage mastery.
1. The Market Bar
Envision yourself in a space where the architecture itself seems to encourage social interaction. The Market Bar Dublin offers just that. Its high ceilings and open-plan design give it an almost theatrical quality, making it the ideal backdrop for an evening out.
The tapas menu is a delightful mosaic of flavours, ranging from succulent meats to ingeniously crafted vegetarian options. Each dish is designed to be shared, fostering a sense of community at the table. This is complemented by a thoughtfully curated selection of wines and beers, each chosen to enhance the flavours of the food.
2. The Long Hall
Step into The Long Hall and you’ll find yourself transported to a different time. An enduring symbol of Dublin since 1766, this pub wraps you in the opulence of the Victorian era. Every inch of its interior tells a story, from the polished wood to the intricately patterned ceilings.
Here, enjoying a pint becomes an act of communion with the past. Aside from offering drinks, The Long Hall provides an ambiance steeped in history, inviting patrons to linger over their beverages while enveloped in an aura of antiquity.
3. 9 Below
9 Below, a hidden gem in St Stephen’s Green, is where elegance and mixology converge. As you descend into this basement bar, you’re greeted by an ambiance that balances art deco luxury with a welcoming warmth.
The bar is a sanctuary for cocktail enthusiasts, where each drink is crafted with precision and passion. The staff, masters in the art of mixology, create beverages that are as visually stunning as they are delicious.
4. Peruke & Periwig
Peruke & Periwig exudes luxury, with lush interiors setting a stage for an evening of sensory indulgence. The cocktail menu highlights the bartenders’ expertise, offering a range of drinks that challenge and delight the palate. Each cocktail is a fusion of creativity and craftsmanship, making Peruke & Periwig a haven for those seeking an immersive drinking experience.
5. John Kavanagh’s ‘The Gravediggers’
John Kavanagh’s, known affectionately as ‘The Gravediggers’, is a living chronicle of Dublin’s history. Established in 1833, each element of the pub, from its rustic furniture to the memorabilia-adorned walls, narrates a story.
The selection of traditional ales and beers is paired with a rich tapestry of historical tales, offering a glimpse into Dublin’s past. It’s a place where every visit is a journey through time, anchored in the authenticity of the Irish pub tradition.
6. Pantibar
Pantibar is a vibrant celebration of diversity. Founded by the iconic Panti Bliss, it stands as a symbol of inclusivity in Dublin’s LGBTQ+ community. The atmosphere here is electric – a dynamic combination of joy, acceptance, and celebration. With its unique brews and effervescent energy, Pantibar shows how a bar can bring people together, creating a space where everyone belongs.
7. Token
Token is where nostalgia and modernity collide in a joyful symphony. This bar redefines the traditional pub experience by pairing retro arcade games with contemporary culinary innovation. Its menu is a playground of creativity, offering dishes that are as fun to eat as they are delicious. Coupled with a selection of craft beers and playful cocktails, Token is an excellent choice for those seeking a laid-back yet distinctly novel experience.
8. The Bar With No Name
Nestled behind a discreet entrance, The Bar With No Name is a hidden oasis in the bustling streets of Dublin. This bar offers a charming balance of airy, modern interiors and a cozy, inviting rooftop terrace. It’s a place of contrasts – both intimate and open, offering an escape from the everyday. The cocktail menu is a carefully crafted collection of classics and innovative creations, providing the perfect accompaniment to an evening of relaxation and conversation.
9. Kicky’s
Kicky’s is a vibrant addition to Dublin’s bar scene, a place where tradition and innovation dance together. The menu here is a delightful surprise, with familiar dishes reimagined through a contemporary lens. The cocktail offerings are equally inventive, crafted by mixologists who understand that a great drink can elevate a meal from good to unforgettable.
10. Lottie’s
Lottie’s in Rathmines is the epitome of casual elegance. Its menu strikes a perfect balance between classic bistro fare and inventive culinary experiments. The atmosphere is both welcoming and stylish, making it an ideal spot for those who appreciate the finer things in life without the formality. Here, every cocktail is carefully crafted and each dish reflects the chef’s innovative approach, making Lottie’s a standout destination in Dublin’s diverse culinary scene.
Ready to Experience Dublin’s Finest?
These ten bars in Dublin offer a unique slice of the city’s social and culinary life. Each brings something different to the table: from historic charm to modern flair, from crafted cocktails to inventive cuisine. As you visit quirky bars such as The Blind Pig Dublin, you’ll get a taste of Dublin’s diverse bar scene – an essential part of any trip to the city. So, why not grab a seat, order a drink, and see what makes each of these spots special? Discovering Dublin’s bars is not just about enjoying good food and drinks, but about experiencing the different vibes and stories they have to offer.
