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12 best auld lad pubs for a pint in Dublin
THERE’S NOTHING MORE comforting than a good old man pub – no bells and whistles, no blaring music, no risk of dodgy pints. Just lovely pints, quality conversation and, of course, bags of crisps to share.
Fortunately for the people of Dublin, the capital boasts an abundance of auld lad pubs to choose from for a quiet one. (Or a few quiet ones, as it may be.)
Here are some of our favourites.
1. Grogan’s, South William St.
Paul Arps / Flickr Paul Arps / Flickr / Flickr
The undisputed home of Guinness and toasties, Grogan’s is an institution.
Plus, is there anything more blissful than standing outside Grogan’s on a gorgeous summer’s day, sipping a pint and talking absolute guff with anyone and everyone? We think not.
2. Cobblestone, Smithfield
William Murphy / Flickr William Murphy / Flickr / Flickr
Almost stubbornly old-school, The Cobblestone is the very definition of an Irish pub, trad sessions and all. (Fun fact: The National once played an intimate gig here.)
3. Fallons, The Coombe
ellejphilips / Flickr ellejphilips / Flickr / Flickr
It might not be the roomiest pub in Dublin, but Fallons is nonetheless a little gem tucked away in Dublin 8 frequented by locals and blow-ins alike. They do a mean Guinness.
4. The Swan Bar, Aungier Street
The Swan Bar / Facebook The Swan Bar / Facebook / Facebook
Stepping into this Victorian-era pub is like stepping into a Dublin of yore. A true gem.
5. Neary’s, Chatham Street
Janet McKnight / Flickr Janet McKnight / Flickr / Flickr
Just a stone’s throw away from Grafton Street, Neary’s is the kind of place you can walk into in the afternoon until you look at your watch and realise it’s 10pm.
6. John Kavanagh’s (“The Gravediggers”), Glasnevin
Kavanagh's / Facebook Kavanagh's / Facebook / Facebook
When asking people for their favourite pubs in Dublin, several people suggested this renowned Glasnevin haunt.
Even if it’s out of your way, it’s well worth a visit.
7. The Royal Oak, Kilmainham
The Royal Oak is basically a country bumpkin pub in the middle of Kilmainham. Unique and charming in every possible way, it’s a must for any pub aficionado.
Planning on going to any of the gigs in Royal Hospital Kilmainham this year? Stop by here for a pint beforehand. (Warning: you’ll need your Google Maps at your fingertips.)
8. Toner’s, Baggot Street
Willliam Murphy / Flickr Willliam Murphy / Flickr / Flickr
One of the most beloved city centre boozers and with good reason.
9. Mulligans, Poolbeg Street
William Murphy / Flickr William Murphy / Flickr / Flickr
Dating from the mid-19th century, Mulligans is the kind of place that people only have fond memories of. Name-checked in a James Joyce story and once regularly frequented by artists and journalists, the pub is part of the city’s fabric.
Long live Mulligans.
10. The Hut, Phibscboro
The Hut / Facebook The Hut / Facebook / Facebook
If you’re ever out Phibsboro way and have a hankering for a pint, we have been reliably informed that The Hut is the place to go.
11. Kehoe’s, South Anne Street
A Watts / Flickr A Watts / Flickr / Flickr
One of the best spots to nip into for a pint in the city centre with a brilliant atmosphere and charming old-school vibes.
12. J. O’Connell’s, Portobello
Keo The Younger / Flickr Keo The Younger / Flickr / Flickr
If you have previously walked past O’Connells without nipping in, we strongly suggest that you rectify that immediately. It’ll do your soul good.
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