Where to find great music and good drinks in Dublin
If getting drunk is your thing, then Dublin is the right place. This city has seen it all before and then some. And if you’re looking to drink in the same bars as your Irish idols such as Phil Lynott, look no further than this list of essential bars to drink in. Just don’t expect anyone to carry you home- it’s every man for himself.
Bruxelles
8 Harry St, Dublin 2, D02 KX36, Ireland
This is a must for Thin Lizzy fans. Home to three bars full of rock memorabilia including a private section designed especially for Philomena Lynott. This was her boy’s place to drink, and still is a popular hangout for many musicians and aspiring artists. You’ll often bump into some crazy characters too. They serve their own lager and offer it up by the jug for just €10. Plus the traditional Irish food is to die for.
Fibber Magees
80-81 Parnell St, Rotunda, Dublin 1, D01 CK74, Ireland
Dublin’s heavy metal bar has housed some of the biggest artists of today including Motörhead, Machine Head and Korn. Surprisingly their most popular drink is not Guiness but Heineken. But we can forgive the punters for that. Outside they have a fairly sizeable beer garden shared with a neighbouring bar. Check what’s on or simply join the regular bar flies and listen to the sounds of real music.
Sin E
15 Ormond Quay Upper, North City, Dublin, D07 YK6A, Ireland
A more intimate bar with many nooks and crannies to explore. It is, like many places in Dublin, full of rock ‘n’ roll memorabilia and quotes. The stage is small and the beer list is long. Thankfully they also dish up a hangover-worthy pizza and beer combo for €10 and that’s something we’re happy to get real intimate with.
Whelans
25 Wexford St, Saint Peter’s, Dublin 2, D02 H527, Ireland
When you’ve had a few and don’t want your night to end, Whelans is the place to go. Everyone and anyone ends up in this bar which shuts at 3am most nights. With a multitude of bars and outside areas, there’s absolutely no reason to be thirsty. Plus you can start your night here with a little live music. Whelans put on a range of bands every evening before the night warriors ascend.
Porterhouse
16-18 Parliament St, Temple Bar, Dublin 2, D02 VR94, Ireland
With eight locations across Dublin, London and New York, it’s not hard to see why this original craft beer bar is so popular. Our favourite branch has to be the central location which has the feel of a great Irish bar. The food is immaculate and heart warming while the selection of beer that they boast of is one of the best we’ve seen in Dublin for craft beer and ale.
Gypsy Rose
2020 UPDATE: NOW CLOSED
Some great nights are to be had in the Gypsy Rose. Dangerously placed next to the River Liffey, Gypsy Rose is a great spot for a drink, a game of pool and a go on the jukebox. They have a fairly spacious live venue area in the basement and hilarious staff behind the bar. Throw your bra up for a free shot, or just throw your pants down for the fuck of it. Because honestly, no one will even bat an eyelid.