Dublin and great pubs go hand in hand. You can’t go far in this city without stumbling across a historic hotspot or a new-age gem battling to stand out from the crowd. From stellar gastropubs to charming local gems and some much-loved local boozers, the best pubs in Dublin await. Drimnagh and Sandyford are home to a clutch of up-and-coming pubs bringing fresh new ideas to the scene. Elsewhere, a menu of traditional Irish fare keeps one of Ireland’s oldest pubs running in Glencullen.
In Dun Laoghaire, dine at a rest stop once used by 18th-century travellers, or head into the city centre for live music and Irish dancing. For a break from the city action, take a trip to Skerries on the coast and enjoy seafood delights with a pint. Finally, Grafton Street is home to one of the most famous pubs in all of Dublin, immortalised in the pages of James Joyce’s Ulysses.
From the heart of the city centre to the outskirts of County Dublin, read on for the best pubs in Dublin and secure your next pub lunch on OpenTable today.
The best pubs in Dublin – read on for a top 13
For great Irish food and live music – start your weekend at Maddigan’s O’Connell Street on O’Connell Street
One of the best Irish pubs in Dublin in a prime central location, Madigan’s is the perfect stopping point for a break from a busy day, or a night out in itself. Live Irish music starts at 9 pm every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night, while food is served from breakfast right through to dinner. Bring your dancing shoes, or simply relax on a plush leather banquette and toe-tap while you dine. For large groups or private parties, book the Daniel O’Connell Room, where you can host any type of event from a casual family quiz night to a business meeting or birthday party. The impressive Irish whiskey menu boasts favourites such as Jamesons, and local gems like the Midleton Barry Crocket. Soak it up with some Madigan’s shepherd’s pie created from slowly braised Wicklow lamb, or a whiskey-infused Gaelic chicken with onion and herb stuffing.
For one of the best pubs in Dublin for waterfront views – visit The Lock Keeper in Ashtown
Overlooking the Royal Canal, The Lock Keeper can be found at Lock #10 – a double lock constructed around 1792. This quirky and attractive venue is steeped in heritage, adjacent to the former Lock Keeper’s House. The sloping edges and high-quality stonework stand testament to the skill of the canal craftsmen. Walk, cycle or travel by canoe from central Dublin, or hop on the train to be there in just six minutes from Connolly. A sought-after dining spot for all occasions, this is one of the best pubs in Dublin for a family meal or celebratory dinner. Try the Lock Keeper creamy chowder with mussels and smoked fish or the deep-fried Tipperary brie to start. Follow on with a Smashtown burger with Lock Keeper home fries, or perhaps a burgundy chicken and tenderstem broccoli with a bacon, mushroom and red wine jus.
For a cosy catch-up in front of a roaring fire – beat the winter blues at The Golden Ball in Kilternan
Beloved by locals, The Golden Ball has a reputation as a cherished gathering place for making memories. A lively village pub with blazing open fires in winter, and cosy nooks and crannies filled with plush leather furnishings and vintage wooden pews, expect a relaxed and highly enjoyable atmosphere at any time of day or year. Whatever your tipple of choice, you’re sure to find what you need, from independent craft beers to the ever-present Guinness, and a vast selection of spirits and house wines. With produce sourced from local suppliers and a seasonally changing menu of reimagined pub classics, The Golden Ball is more than just a drinking spot. Perhaps try some Spanish prawns with crispy garlic, or salmon fillet with black and white sesame seeds in a champagne and saffron cream sauce. For a winter warmer, the wild Wicklow venison sausages with creamy mash and a red wine just will see you right.
For traditional Irish dancing and pints of Guinness – head to Murray’s Bar in O’Connell Street
Pints of Guinness, Irish dancing and a whiskey bar named after the first person to sign the 1916 Proclamation of the Irish Republic – it doesn’t get much more traditionally Irish than Murray’s Bar. Grab a table in the lounge and enjoy the flavours of a traditional Dublin coddle with Guinness and treacle brown bread, and a must-try beef and Guinness pie packed with melt-in-your-mouth beef that’s been braised for 12 hours in Guinness. For lunch, Murray’s Bar offers a range of classic sandwiches, including a ham and cheese toastie with grilled Dubliner cheddar and baked Irish ham, and the chef sandwich of the day. Enjoy with a side of soup or fries and a pint of your favourite beer. Along with beers by the pint or bottle, Murray’s also serves up a few classic cocktails and offers a wide range of whiskeys that can be enjoyed hot or cold. Plus, a Bailey’s coffee always goes well with the ever-changing dessert of the week.
For one of the best pubs in Dublin for Irish steak on the stone – visit The Black Forge in Drimnagh
Grab a seat under the golden lights at The Black Forge – owned by celebrity UFC fighter Conor McGregor – and prepare for a premium pub experience like no other. Local and fresh is the mantra in The Black Forge’s kitchen, which serves up pub favourites with a distinctly Irish touch. Head here for breakfast and enjoy a full Irish made with sweet and salty maple cured bacon, Clonakilty black pudding and Andarl Farm pork sausages. For lunch or dinner, try 12-cured wild Irish smoked salmon or spicy bao buns packed with shredded Andarl Farm pork belly. The signature dish here is the steak on the stone: choose your cut of 100% Irish Angus beef and enjoy it chargrilled with portobello mushrooms, crispy triple-cooked chips and sweet, buttermilk onions. The dessert menu also offers some real treats, including knickerbockers made with soft Irish dairy ice cream and an award-winning cheesecake.
For one of Dublin’s most iconic pubs – don’t miss Davy Byrnes in Grafton Street
Once the haunt of literary legend James Joyce, the Davy Byrnes and its eponymous owner feature in his most famous work. Today, diners can still enjoy the same gorgonzola sandwich (and glass of Burgundy) that Leopold Bloom orders in Ulysses. Dine outdoors under the red and white striped awning or soak up the artistic elegance in the long indoor dining hall. Paintings and drawings line the walls and if you look up, you’ll spot some stunning stained-glass skylights. Seafood is always a highlight at Davy Byrnes and the Davy’s platter, which comes with an array of chilled seafood and Guinness brown bread, is always a great way to start. Follow it up with some crunchy tempura prawns or tempura cauliflower wings for vegan diners. The beef and Guinness pie with chorizo crisp puff pastry is a new take on classic Irish fare, while the beer-battered hake remains one of the most popular dishes on the menu.
For one of the best pubs in Dublin with live music – book at Johnnie Fox’s in Glencullen
This Glencullen classic, first opened in 1798, holds the honour of being the highest pub in Ireland (as well as one of the oldest). When you cross the threshold of Johnnie Fox’s, it’s hard not to feel as if you’ve stepped back in time. On the menu, expect traditional Irish fare like wild Irish mussels steamed in cider, and Irish lamb shank in a red wine jus. Seafood specialities include the traditional seafood pie packed with fish, shellfish and vegetables in a buttery velouté sauce. Alternatively, try the confit duck, served with a bright and sweet homemade champagne and grape sauce. Finish it off with Fox’s famous whiskey cake: layers of cream and chocolate sponge, generously laced with whiskey and finished with a toffee sauce. Johnnie Fox’s is also one of the best pubs in Dublin for live music, hosting the popular ‘Hooley Show’ with traditional Irish musicians and dancers. Spots to watch the Hooley are limited, but live music is played in the evenings in the main dining room throughout the week.
For a picturesque coastal getaway – head to Blue Bar in Skerries
Get out of the bustle of Dublin and take a short trip to the lovely fishing village of Skerries, where you can enjoy a relaxed meal at the Blue Bar. From large booths to seats at the bar, there are multiple seating areas to choose from, all of which offer either beachy or retro vibes. Located right on the harbour, it’s the ideal spot to look out the window and watch the fishing vessels on the water with a drink in hand. Start by trying Blue Bar’s homemade sea salt crisps, served with a tangy sour cream and chive dip. Then choose between spicy buffalo wings served with an award-winning Louisiana sauce, or crunchy tacos filled with southern fried Dublin Bay prawns. Other maritime highlights include mixed seafood linguine with prawns, mussels, clams and calamari, and pan-seared halibut with spinach and a fish velouté. Vegans are well catered for too, with crispy cauliflower wings or a vegan burger complete with vegan cheese, mayo and veggies.
For a special occasion – try Sandyford House in Sandyford
Sandyford House’s history actually stretches all the way back to the 1690s. Whether as a pub or a post office, the building has always played an important role in Sandyford Village. Exposed brick walls lit by hanging golden lights and a choice between cushioned booths and high tables create a relaxing atmosphere that’s the perfect setting for some of the best pub grub in Dublin. Throughout the week, dig into crispy panko prawns or a creamy goat’s cheese salad for your starter. Follow it up with a hearty Irish beef burger or a tender spiced buttermilk chicken burger. There’s always a different cheesecake of the day for dessert, but the refreshing lemon posset is another excellent option. On Sundays, the kitchen offers a weekly-changing roast, served alongside creamy mash, roast veg and fluffy Yorkshire puddings.
For one of the best pubs in Dublin with a fascinating history – visit Purty Kitchen in Dun Laoghaire
VIn the 18th century, Purty Kitchen played host to everyone from merchants to heads of state. A welcome rest on the road for those travelling to Dublin Bay, what started out as a makeshift shelter of wood, clay and straw has become one of Dun Laoghaire’s most iconic pubs. On the menu, seafood and steak reign supreme thanks to Bertha, Purty Kitchen’s indoor wood-fired oven. Kick things off with a martini aperitif before enjoying the fresh flavours of salt and pepper chilli calamari with creamy roasted garlic mayonnaise. Smokey wood-fired mussels from Galway Bay served with a tangy white wine cream is one of Purty Kitchen’s specialties and you can never go wrong with the market fish of the day. Beef comes in fillet, rib eye and burger form, served alongside Purty’s popular skin-on fries. Intricately patterned chairs and booths gather around tables in a wood-panelled dining space that perfectly blends modern and historic touches.
For one of the best pubs in Dublin’s city centre – book at Drury Buildings in South City Centre
In the heart of the city centre, there’s a revamped warehouse that serves as a warm escape from the busy streets outside. Drury Buildings stretches over four floors and also offers outdoor seating in the garden and on the balcony. Start with the bar and pull up a seat at the counter, or soak up the fresh air in the garden. A range of international and Irish craft beers ensures there’s something to suit every palate, while the team of creative mixologists puts a spin on classic cocktails, as well as offering a few signature drinks. The main dining area takes up the next two floors, including the balcony, where you can look out over the garden. On the fourth floor sits the Loft, a private dining space, which is perfect for special occasions. Enjoy local, seasonal ingredients in dishes like Dublin Bay prawn scampi with spicy wasabi mayonnaise and charcuterie boards of Parma ham and Irish farmhouse cheeses.
For one of the best pubs in Dublin for brunch and cocktails – try House Dublin in Leeson Street
Set across two Georgian townhouses, House Dublin invites you to join for a meal, a drink and even a night’s rest. The blue-accented garden dining area is the perfect place to soak up some sun amidst the lush foliage. Head indoors in the evening for a relaxed round of drinks and to enjoy some live performances. House Dublin’s menus cover breakfast, lunch, brunch and dinner. Stop by in the morning for a bowl of the organic house porridge and a flat white. At lunchtime, sample the lamb kofta flatbread with mint yoghurt or a grilled brioche with salmon and shrimp. For dinner, try vegan ragu served in crispy pastry or chateaubriand for two with the house fries at one of the best Irish pubs in Dublin.
For an atmospheric pub everyone can enjoy – book at The Betsy Swords in Swords
The Betsy Swords’ bright orange walls and heavy doors hide an enchanting pub in North County Dublin. The atmosphere inside has a speakeasy-esque vibe, with gilded mirrors, patterned armchairs and mood lighting. The plant-packed outdoor dining space, meanwhile, is the perfect spot to soak up some rays with a cocktail in hand. A round of crunchy and creamy fried French brie wedges with sweet cranberry sauce is a perfect starter before you dig into The Betsy Swords’ signature prime Irish sirloin steak. Alternatively, opt for crispy battered fish and chips made with fresh hake fillets and served with chunky fries and tartar sauce. For vegetarians, the kitchen offers a creamy mushroom tagliatelle and a flavour-packed vegetable Thai curry. The Betsy Swords is also a great spot for a special occasion, with a set menu available for celebrations.
Whether you’re after traditional pub fare or something a little different, the best pubs in Dublin have everything you’re looking for. From pubs packed with history to cosy seaside getaways, there’s always something new to try. Enjoy a Sunday roast accompanied by live music or dig into fish and chips out in the garden. Plus, there are always plenty of cocktails, pints of Guinness and glasses of wine to go around.
