Dublin, a city famed for its vibrant culture and warm hospitality, is a haven for food and drink enthusiasts. Among its many culinary treasures, the city’s gastropubs stand out as a unique blend of traditional Irish pub charm and high-quality cuisine. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring these culinary hotspots is a must for anyone looking to indulge in hearty meals paired with expertly crafted beverages. In this guide, we’ll uncover the 7 best gastropubs in Dublin, where you can enjoy everything from perfectly poured pints to gourmet dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients.
7
Number of companies
7367
Verified reviews
4,34
Average rating
1. The Manhattan-Beer & Food Co
★
★
★
★
★
4,2/5
3-5, 3-5 Station Rd, D05 T9K8, Dublin 5
- Gastropub
- Beer garden
Why we chose them
The Manhattan-Beer & Food Co. stands out as a historic gastropub with 170 years of tradition, offering a unique blend of great food, craft beer, cocktails, and an impressive selection of gin. Having evolved under various names over the decades, it has become a staple for those seeking a warm and inviting atmosphere paired with high-quality dining and beverage options. Their dedication to delivering exceptional experiences makes this venue a must-visit for locals and visitors alike.
One of its most appealing features is its vibrant beer garden, providing the perfect spot to enjoy drinks and meals in a relaxed outdoor setting. With its rich history, diverse menu, and focus on craft beverages, this gastropub has earned its place as a favorite destination for food and drink enthusiasts. Its long-standing reputation and commitment to excellence make it a standout addition to our directory.
2. Against the Grain
★
★
★
★
★
4,4/5
11 Wexford St, D02 HY84, Dublin
- Gastropub
- Bar
Why we chose them
Against the Grain stands out as a contemporary craft beer bar, celebrated for its role as “Dublin Craft Beer Central.” This gastropub offers an impressive selection of craft beers, featuring its own core range from Galway Bay Brewery alongside a rotating variety of draught and bottled brews. Guests can indulge in a diverse array of gin, whiskey, and poitín, ensuring a complete and elevated bar experience. The establishment also serves food until 10 PM daily, making it an ideal spot for pairing meals with their exceptional drink offerings.
Known for its dynamic and ever-changing beer menu, Against the Grain keeps patrons updated through live Instagram posts (@againstthegraindub) about freshly tapped beers. Its dedication to craft beverages and high-quality service firmly places it among Dublin’s top gastropubs and bars. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast or seeking a vibrant social atmosphere, this venue delivers a unique blend of flavors and experiences for all to enjoy.
3. The Bottle Tower Beer & Food
★
★
★
★
★
4,3/5
1 Beaumont Ave, D14 E427, Dublin 14
- Gastropub
- Beer garden
- Restaurant
Why we chose them
The Bottle Tower Beer & Food stands out as a vibrant gastropub offering a delightful combination of exceptional food, craft beers, and creative cocktails. Known for its inviting atmosphere, this establishment has curated an impressive menu that caters to a variety of tastes, making it a go-to spot for both casual dining and special occasions. The restaurant prides itself on delivering high-quality dishes that perfectly complement its wide selection of beverages, ensuring a memorable experience for all who visit.
One of the highlights of this venue is its charming beer garden, an outdoor terrace that provides the perfect setting for relaxing with friends or family. Whether you’re savoring a refreshing cocktail or exploring their craft beer collection, the garden adds a unique and cozy touch to the overall experience. With its combination of delicious food, excellent drinks, and a welcoming ambiance, this gastropub has become a standout destination for those seeking an all-around enjoyable dining and social experience.
4. John O'Dwyer's
★
★
★
★
★
4,4/5
43 Aungier St, D02 KP08, Dublin 2
- Gastropub
- Bar
- Live music bar
- Sports bar
Why we chose them
John O’Dwyer’s is a charming Victorian gastropub nestled in the vibrant heart of Dublin City. Known for its rich history and welcoming atmosphere, this iconic establishment features a traditional pub on the ground floor and three beautifully designed lounge rooms upstairs, offering a unique setting for guests to enjoy exceptional food and drink. With its warm, inviting vibe, it has become a favorite destination for locals and visitors seeking memorable moments in a classic Dublin setting.
Beyond its remarkable ambiance, John O’Dwyer’s stands out for its diverse services, including its role as a gastropub, bar, live music venue, and sports bar. Whether patrons are looking to savor delicious bites, enjoy live performances, or catch the latest sporting events, this establishment caters to every occasion. With a focus on creating unforgettable experiences, it truly embodies the spirit of celebration, making it a must-visit spot in Dublin City.
5. The Exchequer
★
★
★
★
★
4,1/5
3-5 Exchequer St, D02 E044, Dublin 2
- Gastropub
- Cocktail bar
- Irish restaurant
Why we chose them
The Exchequer is a charming Irish gastropub nestled in the heart of Dublin, celebrated for its commitment to serving exceptional new Irish cuisine crafted from fresh, local ingredients. With a focus on quality and authenticity, this establishment offers a menu that showcases the best of Irish flavors, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts. The atmosphere is casual and relaxed, providing the perfect setting for enjoying a wholesome dining experience.
In addition to its culinary offerings, The Exchequer boasts an impressive cocktail bar and an extensive selection of beers and spirits, catering to a variety of tastes. Whether you’re in the mood for a handcrafted cocktail or a pint of your favorite beer, this gastropub delivers in style. Its welcoming ambiance and dedication to quality make it an ideal spot for both locals and visitors seeking a true taste of Ireland in a laid-back environment.
6. Meaghers O’Connell Bridge
★
★
★
★
★
4,7/5
3 Eden Quay, D01 W896, Dublin
- Gastropub
Why we chose them
Meaghers O’Connell Bridge is a quintessential Irish bar nestled on Dublin’s historic O’Connell Bridge, offering a perfect blend of tradition and modernity. Renowned as a gastropub, it boasts an impressive menu featuring modern Irish cuisine alongside beloved traditional classics. Whiskey enthusiasts will find themselves in heaven with a curated selection of exclusive whiskeys from Ireland’s premier distilleries, including Redbreast, Bushmills, and Midleton. For those seeking variety, the bar also serves expertly crafted cocktails and a full range of traditional spirits, ensuring every guest finds something to suit their taste.
With its warm, authentic atmosphere and a nod to Irish pub heritage, this venue is more than just a bar—it’s an experience. Perfectly suited for private events, the New York subway-inspired basement bar provides a unique space for groups of 10 to 60 people, complete with tailored food packages. Whether it’s a casual drink, a hearty meal, or a memorable celebration, this gastropub captures the essence of Irish hospitality while delivering uncompromising quality and charm.
7. The Station at Molloys
★
★
★
★
★
4,3/5
Village Green, D24 R5X0, Dublin
- Gastropub
Why we chose them
The Station at Molloys offers a vibrant and modern gastropub experience, blending exceptional food with a relaxed yet stylish atmosphere. Known for its 5-star food and service, this establishment has gained a reputation for serving some of the best steaks in town, alongside a variety of dishes from its extensive menus, including brunch, lunch, dinner, and a dedicated kids’ menu. With a focus on quality and creativity, the gastropub also features a well-curated wine and cocktail selection, making it a perfect spot for casual dining or special occasions.
Beyond its delicious offerings, this gastropub stands out for its welcoming environment and customer-centric features. It caters to families with children, provides disabled access, and offers free WiFi for added convenience. Guests can enjoy a full bar, ample parking, and a smart-casual dress code that complements its contemporary vibe. Whether you’re stopping by for a juicy steak, a classic burger, or a signature cocktail, this gastropub promises an unforgettable dining experience in a fun and inviting setting.
Frequently asked questions
What is a gastropub and how does it differ from a traditional pub?
A gastropub combines the relaxed atmosphere of a traditional pub with high-quality, restaurant-style cuisine. Unlike regular pubs that focus primarily on drinks, gastropubs emphasize gourmet dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients alongside a curated selection of craft beers, wines, and cocktails.
What type of food and drinks can I expect at a gastropub in Dublin?
Gastropubs in Dublin typically offer a variety of dishes, including seasonal Irish specialties, gourmet burgers, seafood, and vegetarian options. Drink menus often feature craft beers, cocktails, wines, and the signature Irish stout.
What is the average price range for a meal at a gastropub in Dublin?
The average price for a meal at a gastropub in Dublin ranges from €15 to €40 per person, depending on the dish and location. Drinks are typically priced between €5 and €10 each, with craft cocktails costing slightly more.
How do I choose a good gastropub in Dublin?
To select a great gastropub, consider factors like customer reviews, the variety and quality of the menu, the atmosphere, and the availability of entertainment such as live music. It's also helpful to check if they use locally sourced ingredients or offer seasonal specials.
Do gastropubs in Dublin offer vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes, many gastropubs in Dublin cater to dietary preferences and offer vegetarian or vegan dishes. Menus often include plant-based options such as salads, veggie burgers, and innovative meat-free mains made with seasonal ingredients.
Are reservations required at gastropubs in Dublin?
While some gastropubs accept walk-ins, it’s recommended to make a reservation, especially during weekends or peak dining hours, to ensure availability. Popular venues may fill up quickly, particularly in the evening.
Do gastropubs in Dublin offer live music or other entertainment?
Yes, several gastropubs in Dublin feature live music or entertainment, especially during evenings and weekends. This adds to the lively Irish ambiance and enhances your dining experience. Check their event schedules for specific performances.
Are gastropubs suitable for families or large groups in Dublin?
Gastropubs are generally family-friendly and can accommodate large groups. Many offer spacious seating and group-friendly menus. It's advisable to call ahead if you’re planning a visit with a larger party to ensure they can accommodate your needs.
