The "Luck of the Irish" - 5 Pubs to Visit Celebrating St. Patrick's Day in Dublin

4 min read

If you’re fortunate enough to be in Dublin to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, then the luck of the Irish is most definitely shine’n on ya. Streets are full and pubs are packed with Irish locals and those wishing to be Irish for the day. With over 700 pubs located in Dublin, there are a few that you really shouldn’t miss.

Celebrated every March 17th, the day honors Ireland’s patron saint, St. Patrick’s. Celebrations are held throughout Ireland and around the world. But, thanks to those Irish Emigrants to the U.S., this day of remembrance has turned into an all-out party. It’s a day full of dancing, corned beef, cabbage, beer and lots of green. Keep an ear open for a heated debate between the locals whether it’s St. Patty’s Day or St. Paddy’s Day.

The Hairy Lemon

42 Stephen Street Lower

Cozy Irish pub serves up traditional Irish foods. Rumor has it, the pub was named after one of Dublin’s “great characters”, a dog catcher in the 1950’s”.

On the menu, you will find Braised Lamb Shank, Beef and Guinness Pie, Irish Stew, and Bangers and Mash. Leave room for dessert. Some of your options include Guinness Chocolate Mousse or Sticky Toffee Pudding. Wash it all down with a warm Irish coffee. Irish music is heard throughout the week.

The Snug Bar

15 Stephen Street Upper

First, what exactly is a snug? Well, prior to the 1960’s, women did not drink in Irish pubs. Men would often frequent the Pubs where women would prefer to drink a nip or two at home. It wasn’t a law per se but instead was more of what was considered socially unacceptable. However, some pubs had a small “snug” where the women could go in to enjoy a pint. Snugs were small rooms, off the main part of the bar that contained a small window where the bartender could serve the drinks to the women.

The Snug Bar is a little hole in the wall pub full of more characters than character, but it still is a great place to stop in for a drink. And why not, it’s rumored they have the cheapest pints of Guinness in the city.

The Brazen Head

20 Bridge Street Lower

Officially considered Ireland’s oldest pub, its history dates back to 1198. Where it is currently located, is where the original settlement was located that would later become Dublin.

The Brazen Head offers a wide array of delish foods including homemade soups, steamed mussels, grilled salmon and to finish off, baked Baileys Cheesecake.

For a truly unique experience, enjoy an evening of “Food, Folklore, and Fairies”. Enjoy a traditional Irish dinner, by candlelight while enjoying stories of Irish history through folklore and music. To book your reservations online, click here.

The Temple Bar

47/48 Temple Bar

Temple Bar is located in the middle of all the action and is a must see on your visit to Dublin. It’s history dates back to 1599 when well known Trinity College Provost, Sir William Temple, built his home on this very spot.

An extensive menu offers sandwiches (over 100 to choose from), seafood, Irish cheeses as well as lots of whiskeys. One of the largest collections in Ireland.

Temple Bar often be filled with locals and tourists alike listening to live traditional Irish tunes offered daily.

The Oliver St. John Gogarty Bar

This little gem located in the heart of Dublin is a one-stop shop during your stay. Complete with bar, restaurant, and accommodations you just have to stumble your way to bed after a long evening of pub crawling through Dublin’s finest Pubs.

The restaurant offers award-winning Irish fare while the bar offers a lively scene 7 nights a week with live Irish music.

With over 700 pubs/bars located in Dublin, you won’t need the luck of the Irish to have a great time. To be able to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin, is a real treat. Pubs stay open late and parties can last through the night. The Irish know how to have a good time and welcome you to join along.