Dublin, the capital city of Ireland, is famous for its great pubs and lively nightlife. So, why not get an authentic taste of Irish Pub Culture by visiting some of the popular pubs in Dublin. Exploring the pubs in this beautiful city is a great way to enjoy Irish music, know about its people and get acquainted with their culture and traditions.
Here are some of the famous pubs in Dublin that you should consider visiting. These include The Cobblestone, Frank Ryan's Pub, O'Shea's Merchant, The Bull & Castle, The Porterhouse, The Stag's Head, Oliver St. John Gogarty Pub and Fitzgeralds.
Let has undertake a virtual tour of some of these pubs to get acquainted about their offerings beforehand and prepare well for Dublin visit.
The Cobblestone
A visit to “The Cobblestone” bar is quite fascinating. “The Cobblestone Pub and Venue”, as it is popularly called, is situated in a historical building away from city centre. The pub is renowned for serving one of the best pints of Guinness in the city which it has been doing ever since its existence. The ambience in the bar is pleasant, cool and rustic. You will find interesting wall hangings providing a homely feel. The Cobblestone is simply amazing to visit. Some of the best Irish musicians can be seen playing all seven nights a week testifying that the pub has continued to maintain its rich tradition and association with Irish music of all genres be it Bluegrass, Folk or Country music. The Cobblestone is situated on Smithfield Square, just 10 minutes walk from the City Centre. Some of the famous celebrities who have visited the pub in the past include playwright Sam Shepard and comedian Billy Connolly. The Cobblestone is open on Monday to Thursday from 7 pm; on Friday and Saturday it is open from 5 pm; while on Sunday the pub is open from 2 pm.
Frank Ryan’s Pub
The small, charming Frank Ryan’s Pub was opened nearly 200 years ago in Dublin. The pub is situated on the Queen Street. The pub has over the years been refurbished many times, but still maintains its originality of yesteryears and continues to be popular as ever. Frank Ryan’s Pub looks stunning with its same-old unique charm, a great selection of old pictures and artifacts, warm atmosphere, open fireplace, low ceiling and wood-paneled walls. It is the best place in Dublin to spend few hours drinking during all days of the week. The pints here are delightful, somewhat costly and the service indeed excellent. Frank Ryan’s Pub is open Monday to Saturday from 4 pm, while on Sunday it is open from 6 pm. On special occasions the pub can also be opened earlier by request.
O'Shea's Merchant
The O'Shea's Merchant pub is situated nearby “The Brazen Head”, the oldest pub in Ireland. The ambience of this rustic-looking pub brings back old memories alive. The traditional décor with old memorabilia and pictures have their own tale to tell. The O’Shea’s Merchant Bar even finds mention in story and song. A visit to this traditional Irish pub perfectly reflects the true Irish culture through its dance and music. The pub boasts in providing excellent customer service. The O’Shea’s Merchant pub also offers free Irish Set Dancing classes to the visitors and prompts them to participate in the fun.
The Bull & Castle
The Bull & Castle is a remarkable Irish pub situated across Christ Church Cathedral. A visit to this pub is a must on the itinerary of every tourist undertaking a beer tour in Ireland. The pub is renowned for its largest selection of beers procured from local Irish breweries. The Bull & Castle, a Beerhall and Gastropub in Dublin, is acclaimed to be the best pub in the city for its exquisite craft beer selection. Here you will come across a wide range of over 150 different kinds of beer from across the world. The affordably priced drinks are a prime attraction for visitors. The Bull & Castle is also the leading Irish craft beers distributor in the country.
The Stag's Head
The Stag's Head pub was founded in 1890 and continues to maintain its originality ever since. The pub with its old-fashioned design is considered to be a classic Irish pub in Dublin. The access to this pub can be had from the Georges Street or Exchequer Street. However, it is sometimes difficult to locate the pub when seeking access through the narrow passageway off the Dame Street. The Stag’s Head was the first pub in Dublin to be illuminated by electricity. The Stag’s Head is unique in its own way as neither TVs nor music is to be found here. The atmosphere here is traditional and pleasant. The décor is exquisite with mirrors and stained glass windows, opulent ceiling, mahogany and marble décor, and a big stag’s head hanging over the long bar.