Updated: 12/29/2021
To be honest, there are far too many great pubs in Dublin to limit it to 4. So, in this first article, I am including the top 4. The first two received the most votes with the rest following right behind them. The results were achieved with an unsophisticated compilation of public information posted online, and one vote given to each mention regardless of position in the top ten lists.
To understand the culture of Ireland you must understand the meeting place, the local pub where you can enjoy a pint and some craic. Craic means fun times. Known for atmosphere, friendliness, and charm the Irish pub reminds us of a time gone by before cell phones, and binge-watching. Ireland is known for many things but what comes to mind for many is its Guinness, a stout beer, and you will hear many pubs claim they serve the best pint in town. When they say, "have a pint", they mean Guinness. Of course, they also offer a variety of beer in the establishments, as well as wine and cocktails.
Historically, when pubs opened, they served various purposes, so you will see pubs followed by “and grocery” or “and hardware”.
To help with a few Irish words in this article here are a few to remember. A Snug is a private area separated within the pub, a small cozy section found in traditional pubs for more private conversations. Originally, they were for the ladies, match-making, and sometimes business deals. Typically is had its own door, a bench, a window for drinks, and was completely private.
Pubs each have a great history and a little research will turn up some interesting stories you would expect from a country blessed with the art of storytelling. There are over 7,000 pubs in Ireland and a good portion in Dublin. Given the daunting task of deciding which ones to try, I’ve searched for the best pubs in Dublin, and here is the list with the most votes. The Long Hall and Toners were tied with the most votes with the rest right behind them. The following establishments all serve the perfect pint of Guinness so read on and Slainte!
The Long Hall
Established in1818 and is one of Dublin’s oldest and most famous.
An original Dublin pub with a striking red and white exterior. It survived the Celtic Tiger Boom, a term referring to the economy of the Republic of Ireland from the mid-1990s to the late-2000s, a period of rapid real economic growth, then a subsequent severe economic downturn. Licensed since 1766, this pub is one of Dublin’s oldest, most beautiful, and best-loved pubs, abundant in traditional charm and exuding genuine Victorian originality, the interior dates from 1881.
The bar has been open for more than 250 years, with an interior that has remained the same since 1881. It has elaborately carved wooden partitions, antique clocks, and mismatched chandeliers. These Victorian features make for a cozy, welcoming pub; a place where you want to settle in for the night and hang out with friends, and a near-perfect pint of Guinness.
The name of the pub originates from Dublin pub lore as a consequence of the long narrow hallway snug, that ran parallel to the back bar. The pub is the product of traditional Victorian design symmetry in which the sum of its parts, including elaborate gold leaf enhancements, meticulously handcrafted wood carvings, beveled and ornate glass all come together to create one of the iconic examples of 19th century Dublin pub life.
The pub boasts visits from celebrities, prominent politicians, musicians, and playwrights. Irish rock legend Phil Lynott recorded ‘Old Town’ in the bar in 1982. Attentive bartenders, a friendly welcome, and a great atmosphere await you. It is renowned for great Guinness and is very busy on the weekends so try a visit during the week to avoid the crowds.
Address: 51 South Great George’s Street, Dublin 2, D02 CP38, Ireland
Toner's
Award-winning pub on Baggot Street
Toner's Pub was established in 1734. Today it is an award-winning pub. Toner's is one of Dublin’s oldest and most famous of the traditional pubs, which was named the overall winner of the “Best Traditional Pub” in the National Hospitality Awards 2014, Dublin Bar of the Year in 2015 at the Sky Bar of the Year Awards, and “Snug of the Year” 2010, a competition hosted by Powers Whiskey.
The classic red and black exterior makes this pub easy to spot. The original features in the pub will transport you back in time, from the old stock drawers behind the bar from when Toner's first opened as a bar and grocery. Other original features include the glazed cabinets, elaborate mirrors, brass bar taps, and flagstone floors.
The pub was frequented by many of Ireland’s literary greats, including Patrick Kavanagh, and rumored to be the favorite pub of W.B. Yeats. The snug is said to be the only place he would drink when he liked to have a few drinks. Today, it’s a place for a drink after work, with a mix of older and younger crowds. On game day it gets quite lively or maybe rowdy is the right word. They are known for the, let's say “attitude” of the barman and a great pint of Guinness.
They have a nice-sized beer garden in the back, which gets great reviews. It’s great for warm days and heated when it is cold.
The Brazen Head
The building dates back to 1198.
The Brazen Head is Irelands oldest pub, steeped in history and lore. There building served as a hostelry in 1198. The present building was built in 1754 as a coaching inn. A coaching inn was a place that travelers could stop to get a bite, drink, and rest the horses. The Brazen Head appears in documents as far back as 1653.
According to the Brazen Head, the pub was used by Robert Emmet to plan the Rising of 1798. With its proximity to Dublin Castle, then the seat of English rule in Ireland, it was the perfect spot to plot against British rule. Being close to the quay, churches, and the courts made it a hub of activity providing a great opportunity to pass on intelligence without being discovered. Unfortunately for him, his rebellion failed and in 1803 he was put to death for high treason in a rather gruesome manner. As a result, Emmet’s ghost is said to haunt the pub.
The United Irishmen of 1916 and the leaders of the War of Independence, including Michael Collins, gathered at the Brazen Head for meetings to plan the revolution. The pub came close to destruction during both the Easter Rising of 1916 and the Civil War of 1922. During these turbulent times, the Four Courts nearby were destroyed and today, the walls of the pub display photographs from this time in Irish history.
As Dean of Saint Patrick's Church, it is believed that Jonathan Swift would have passed the pub every day and he mentions the Brazen Head in at least one of his writings. Irish poet Brendan Behan and novelist James Joyce often frequented the pub as well. Joyce even mentions the Brazen Head in "Ulysses".
For something to eat, try beef and Guinness stew or a big bowl of steamed Irish mussels. The food here is fantastic with all the Irish traditional dishes available but best to make a reservation if you expect a table. The venue is also famed for its live music and storytelling. An absolute must on any trip to Dublin. As a side note, it is one of this author's favorites and they make a mean gin and tonic.
Address: 20 Lower Bridge St, Usher’s Quay, Dublin, D08 WC64, Ireland
The Cobblestone
The Cobblestone considers itself “A drinking pub with a music problem”.
The Cobblestone is in one of Dublin’s oldest neighborhoods, Smithfield, a quick walk from the Luas (tram) stop and about a fifteen-minute walk from the city center. This pub is for both locals and tourists so if you are looking for authenticity, this is it. It is authentic and old in appearance with pine-wood floors and dark paneled walls.
The Mulligan family has been playing Irish music for five generations built on a family tradition of respect for music and culture. This pub is all about traditional Irish music so stop by for traditional music every night. It has an Irish music jam session with well-known Irish musicians, plus classes if you want to learn the instruments. They offer Bluegrass, country, folk, singer-songwriter nights, singing, dancing, and history talks too. Check the schedule if you want to participate in the fun.
Address: 77 King St N, Smithfield, Dublin, D07 TP22, Ireland
So if you are planning a trip to Dublin, make sure to check out these 4 pubs, at the least. If you are interested in pubs in Ireland, ask us about the Irish Pub tour. It is offered in small groups touring around Ireland at some of the most notable Irish Pubs. Learn about the tradition, history, and purpose of the pubs, and have a few pints along the way!
Click the link to see our Group Trips to Ireland and beyond or get Inspiration for your Trip to Ireland. Ask about the Ireland Pub Tour!
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