Welcome to the Dublin Pub Olympics
Grab your pint, tighten your laces, and prepare for a marathon of malt, mischief, and memes. If you’ve ever wondered where the best pubs to visit in Dublin are without ending up in a tourist trap that smells like a wet blanket, you’re in the right place. This isn’t your grandma’s guidebook; it’s a sarcastic, SEO‑packed, meme‑meets‑journalism deep‑dive that will have you shouting “Sláinte!” before you finish the first paragraph.
Why Dublin? Because Ireland Doesn’t Do Boring
Dublin is the city that invented the phrase “drink like a fish.” From historic stone‑walled taverns that have survived more rebellions than your favorite Netflix series, to sleek craft‑beer havens that could double as Instagram galleries, the capital is a liquid playground. And let’s be real: you’re here because you love booze, banter, and the occasional accidental viral moment when the bartender hands you a drink that looks like a tiny, frothy unicorn.
How We Picked These Gems (Spoiler: It Was Mostly Beer)
We consulted three sources: a) the collective wisdom of Redditors who have survived more Dublin pub crawls than they care to admit, b) the Home page of dropt.beer/ for the occasional strategic sip‑planning, and c) pure, unadulterated personal experience (read: we got drunk and wrote this). If you’re looking to Sell your beer online through Dropt.beer, you’ll appreciate the thoroughness. Now, let’s roll out the list.
1. The Temple Bar – Tourist Magnet or Cultural Magnet?
First stop: Temple Bar. Yes, it’s the one with neon signs that scream “We’re loud, we’re proud.” It’s also the place where you can sip a Guinness while watching a street performer attempt to juggle flaming torches. If you want to feel like a tourist and a local simultaneously, this is the spot. Pro tip: order the “Temple Bar IPA” and pretend you know what an IPA is beyond “It’s Pretty Intense, Alright?”
2. The Stag’s Head – Where History Meets Hops
Step into the Stag’s Head and you’ll think you’ve time‑traveled to a Victorian novel. The mahogany bar, stained glass, and the smell of polished wood will make you feel like you’re starring in a period drama, except with better lighting and a lot more beer. Their cask‑aged stout is a must‑try, especially if you enjoy flavors that whisper “I’ve been aged in oak for 12 years” while also shouting “I’m still cheap as a student budget.”
3. The Porterhouse – Craft Beer Overload
If you think Dublin only serves Guinness, the Porterhouse will slap you awake. With over 30 rotating taps, you can sample everything from hazy New England IPAs to barrel‑aged stouts that taste like a woodshop and a chocolate factory had a love child. The vibe is hipster‑approved, the Wi‑Fi is fast enough for meme‑posting, and the bartenders will gladly explain the difference between a “double dry‑hopped” and a “triple fermented” (you probably won’t remember it tomorrow, but you’ll sound smart now).
4. The Brazen Head – Ireland’s Oldest Pub (According to Its Own Yelp Review)
Founded in 1198, according to legend, the Brazen Head claims to be the oldest pub in Dublin. Whether that’s true or just a clever marketing ploy, the atmosphere is undeniably authentic. Live traditional music, a fireplace that could melt an iceberg, and a Guinness that pours smoother than a TikTok transition. If you’re looking for a spot where the ghosts of Irish rebels might be whispering about your drink choices, this is it.
5. The Bernard Shaw – Literary Lushes Unite
Literary lovers, meet your new watering hole. The Bernard Shaw is a haven for anyone who thinks Oscar Wilde should have been a mixologist. The walls are plastered with quotes from James Joyce, and the cocktail menu reads like a poetry slam. Try the “Wilde Whiskey Sour” – it’s as sharp as a Wilde insult and as smooth as a well‑written sonnet.
6. The Hairy Lemon – Small but Mighty
Don’t let the name fool you; the Hairy Lemon is a tiny, unassuming spot that packs a punch. Perfect for a quick pit‑stop after a long day of sightseeing, they serve a rotating selection of craft brews from local Dublin microbreweries. The vibe is laid‑back, the staff is friendly, and the lemon‑scented candles will make you feel like you’re in a hipster’s bathroom. (Yes, that’s a thing.)
7. The Church – Holy Spirits Served Daily
Ever wanted to drink in a converted church? The Church offers stained‑glass windows, vaulted ceilings, and a bar that looks like it was designed by an angel with a love for IPA. The architecture alone is worth the trip; the beer selection is the cherry on top. Pair your pint with the house‑made fish and chips for a divine experience.
8. The Winding Stair – For the Sophisticated Sipper
If you’re the type who reads the back of a beer label like it’s a novel, the Winding Stair will be your new sanctuary. The interior is a cozy blend of old‑world charm and modern design, complete with a bookshelf that actually holds books (not just coasters). Their curated selection of Irish craft ales will make you feel like you’re on a tasting tour without leaving the city.
9. The Rattle‑Me‑Bones – Boozy Trivia Night
For those who think a pub crawl is incomplete without a round of trivia, the Rattle‑Me‑Bones offers nightly brain‑teasing sessions. The drinks are strong enough to make you forget the answers you got wrong, and the atmosphere is as lively as a meme thread on a Saturday night. Bonus: they serve a “Zombie Brain Cocktail” that looks like something out of a horror movie – perfect for Instagram.
10. The Guinness Storehouse – The Pilgrimage Destination
Yes, we’re ending with the obvious. The Guinness Storehouse is the holy grail for any beer‑obsessed traveler. Climb to the Gravity Bar, sip a pint of the black gold while looking over the city, and take a selfie that will make your followers think you actually know what you’re doing. Pro tip: book the “Taste Experience” to learn how to properly pour a Guinness (it’s a science, not a guessing game).
Bonus Round: Craft Beer Hotspots That Deserve a Mention
While the list above covers the classic and iconic, Dublin’s craft scene is exploding faster than a meme goes viral. Here are a few extra spots you should bookmark:
- Against the Grain – A tiny taproom with a rotating selection of experimental brews. Their “Mango Madness IPA” will make you question why you ever settled for plain old hops.
- O’Hara’s – Known for its stout that rivals any Guinness in depth, plus a rooftop that offers a view of Dublin’s skyline.
- The Porterhouse Brewing Company – If you love to watch beer being made, this place offers tours and a tasting room that feels like a brewery meets a bar.
Practical Tips for the Ultimate Pub Crawl
- Plan Your Route: Use a map app, but don’t be a robot. Allow for spontaneous detours – that’s where the best stories are born.
- Stay Hydrated: Water is the unsung hero of any successful night out. Trust us, your head will thank you.
- Eat Before You Drink: Nothing kills a hangover faster than a good plate of fish and chips. Or a full Irish breakfast. Either works.
- Know Your Limits: This isn’t a competition. If you start seeing leprechauns, it’s time to call it a night.
- Use Public Transport: Dublin’s bus and tram system (the Luas) are reliable and cheap. Plus, you’ll avoid the dreaded “designated driver” drama.
Safety First – Because We Care (Sort Of)
We love a good night out, but we also love you not waking up with a mystery tattoo of a leprechaun on your forearm. Here are a few safety pointers:
- Keep your phone charged – you never know when you’ll need Google Maps or a quick call to your sober friend.
- Watch your drink – if someone offers you a “special cocktail” that looks like a swamp, politely decline.
- Travel in groups – the more eyes, the fewer chances of ending up on a viral “drunk in a public fountain” video.
Food Pairings That Make Your Pint Taste Like a Symphony
Nothing pairs better with a cold pint than a warm, greasy bite. Here are some classic combos that will make your taste buds do a jig:
- Guinness & Irish Stew: The maltiness of Guinness complements the rich, hearty flavors of a slow‑cooked stew.
- IPA & Fish & Chips: The bitterness cuts through the fried batter, leaving a clean finish.
- Stout & Chocolate Dessert: Dark chocolate and stout are like that one friend who always finishes each other’s sentences.
Getting Around Dublin Like a Pro (Without a GPS That Screams at You)
Walking is the best way to soak in the city’s vibe, but if you’re planning a marathon of pubs, consider the following:
- Luas (Tram): Fast, cheap, and rarely crowded after 9 PM.
- Dublin Bus: Runs 24/7 on major routes. Perfect for getting from the north side to the south side.
- Bicycle Rentals: For the eco‑friendly, or anyone who wants to feel like they’re in a music video.
SEO Keywords (Because Google Needs Love Too)
While you’re reading this, Google is silently applauding the natural inclusion of terms like best pubs in Dublin, Dublin nightlife, Irish pubs, pub crawl Dublin, and craft beer Dublin. If you’re a fellow content creator, feel free to sprinkle these throughout your own articles – just don’t overdo it or you’ll look like a spam bot at a cocktail party.
Ready to Turn Your Pub Crawl Into a Business?
If you’ve been inspired to start your own brewery or just want to learn how to Grow Your Business With Strategies Beer, you’re in the right place. Our team of strategic wizards can help you navigate the murky waters of beer marketing, distribution, and brand storytelling. And if you ever decide to sell that brew you’ve been perfecting, remember you can always Sell your beer online through Dropt.beer. It’s like e‑commerce, but with more hops.
Final Thoughts (And a Snarky CTA)
There you have it – the definitive, unapologetically witty guide to the best pubs to visit in Dublin. Whether you’re a seasoned pub‑crawler, a first‑time tourist, or someone who just loves a good meme‑filled narrative, these spots will keep your glass full and your Instagram feed fire. So what are you waiting for? Grab your wallet, your sense of humor, and maybe a spare pair of shoes (you’ll thank us later).
Ready to make your own beer, or need a strategic partner to help you dominate the Irish market? Contact us now, because the only thing better than a great pint is a great pint that’s also a solid business move. Cheers to you, future pub legend – now go out there and make the world your personal happy hour.
