The 7 best bars in Dublin

Billed as a bar for audiophiles, Fidelity is where to go if you like craft beer, cocktails and tunes. Located in Smithfield, this bar serves up a rotating selection of beer from all over the world as well as drinks from Whiplash, one of Ireland’s leading craft breweries and the co-owners of this space. It also has a mighty impressive cocktail menu and wine selection. The main draw, however, is the custom-made soundsystem. Designed by Toby Hatchett, it’s a thing of beauty and made for Friday night bops.

For cocktails with Irish flair, look no further than Bar 1661. This award-winning bar is best known for its cocktails made with poitín, an Irish spirit that was once illegal but has enjoyed a comeback in recent years. For example, visitors can enjoy a Belfast Coffee, made with poitín, cold brew and cream. Committed to showcasing the best of Irish spirits, you will also find cocktails made with Irish whiskey, gin and rum. Make your way through the menu as you graze on Irish-sourced cheese and charcuterie. 

Sometimes, only a touch of luxury will do. And things don’t get any more luxurious than 9 Below, on St Stephen’s Green. This restored basement bar is all vaulted ceilings, chic art deco seating and brass fixtures on the weathered walls. But while the bar is undoubtedly opulent, it strikes the perfect balance in terms of atmosphere – staff are friendly and jovial, not fawning and formal.

There’s no sign outside, but this bar is hardly a secret. Look for the wooden snail at the doorway and head upstairs to find a bar that’s light and airy, with antique touches alongside sleek red leather couches. There’s a good selection of beers, but the cocktail menu is superior – the Lemon Basil Smash is fragrantly zingy and fresh. There’s a tiny rooftop terrace too, perfect for languid chats on balmy evenings.

There’s a hefty cocktail menu at this small but lavish spot. So the easiest thing to do is grab a seat at the bar, get chatting with one of the bartenders and leave your order in their capable hands. Expect a fair dose of flair – a perfect match for the interior, all plush velvet banquettes, brocade cushions and baroque vibes.

The illuminated Pantibar sign stands tall over Capel Street, as instantly recognisable and adored as the bar’s owner, Panti Bliss. Self-proclaimed ‘gender discombobulist’ and ‘national f*cking treasure’, Panti has created a gay bar with a buzzing, neighbourhood feel that has been part of the fabric of the LGBTQ+ community since 2007. Order a pint of the specially brewed Panti’s Pale Ale, or make the most of the prosecco on tap.

The whole speakeasy trend has faded away in recent years, but the Vintage Cocktail Club has survived the gimmick and proven itself a truly excellent spot for a cocktail. You’ll need to ring the doorbell on the black door to get in (the tiny VCC sticker lets you know you’re at the right place), but upstairs there’s a shabby-chic ambience at once cosy and inviting.