You might liken finding the best place for a pint of the black stuff in Dublin to seeking the creamiest carbonara in Rome, the finest sushi in Tokyo, or the fluffiest souffle in Paris. It is by no means an easy feat. That’s why we’ve put the hours in scouring the streets and propping up the bars of the Irish capital, leaving you to simply turn up and enjoy the best Guinness in Dublin.
That said, we do feel it’s important to add a disclaimer at this point: as with any taste, the ideal Guinness is a subjective notion. Though inspired primarily by the quality of the famous stout, this guide has been compiled on the basis of the whole drinking experience from start to finish.
So, in anticipation of your next perfect pint, read on to find out where to get the best Guinness in Dublin.
The Brazen Head
As the writing on the outside wall proudly states, The Brazen Head opened in 1198, seeing it lay claim to the title of one of the oldest pubs in Ireland.
Now, as far as we’re aware, it’s certainly the oldest tavern in the capital but there are a host of other fine establishments across the country that argue they have been around even longer.
What we do know for sure is that they pour a darn fine pint of Guinness. Heading off the street and through a cute courtyard to the bar, you’ll have to wrestle your way through the locals who pack the premises every night of the week to make your way to the bar.
You’ll like this pub because:
- The atmosphere here really is something else.
- With great live music on weekends and evenings, this is the perfect place for a drink and a sing a long.
- And what better way to warm up those vocal cords than by knocking back a nice creamy pint of the black stuff?
This spot is also a feature on our Pubs, Pints, and History tour: Beer & Whiskey Tasting in Dublin’s Historic Pubs. Dive into Dublin’s past and delight in local beer, Guinness, Irish coffee, whiskey, and more!
_______________________
Doheny & Nesbitt
Doheny & Nesbitt, an authentic Victorian-era pub dating back to the 1840s, is one of Dublin’s most beautiful old pubs, featuring two “snugs”—small, cozy, enclosed seating areas offering a more private and intimate space for people coming to enjoy a pint.
D&N also hosts live music sessions, cultural events, and screens certain sporting events. If there’s a big game on, you can probably catch it at Doherny & Nesbitt.
John Kavanagh’s “The Gravediggers”
John Kavanagh’s “The Gravediggers” was founded in 1883, and to be fair, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’ve stepped right back in time as you poke your head through its ancient doors.
Built into the wall of Glasnevin Cemetery, it used to be well known as the favorite haunt (apologies) of the local gravediggers, which is where it gets its affectionate nickname. Nowadays though, the atmosphere is anything but gloomy.
The warm service, and worn-out tables and chairs add a gorgeous charm that harks back to the bygone days of the rich pub culture that is gradually being lost to the emergence of slick, clinical gastro pubs and chains.
You’ll like this pub because:
- This place is well-known among Guinness purists and features on almost every list out there
- If it’s the perfect pint you’re after, this gets top billing.
- And with no TV or music, it’s the perfect setting to spend hours over some great conversation and maybe more than one beautifully smooth stout.
Mulligan’s on Poolbeg St.
Possibly the most famous watering hole on our list, this central Dublin venue has been making a name for itself for well over 200 years, ever since it began pulling unlicensed pints prior to its official opening in 1782. Mulligan’s has more than the odd claim to fame.
Not only does it feature in a James Joyce short story, but some of its well-known patrons have included Judy Garland and U2, while President Kennedy even sunk his first pint of Guinness there back in 1947.
Despite being a self-styled “no-nonsense” pub, the grandfather clock near the bar conceals a rather quirky story:
- Back in 1980, Irish-American brothers Billy and David Carr traveled from Texas to Ireland in search of their favorite drinker and stumbled across Mulligan’s
- Over the years, they would visit time and again, becoming considered honorary locals
- When Billy sadly passed away in 2011, it was decided there would be no place more fitting to scatter his ashes; and so it was that the remains of Billy Carr ended up inside the grandfather clock at Mulligan’s on Poolbeg St.
McNeill’s
While Capel Street is known as one of Dublin’s most happening strips, behind the small, unassuming entrance to McNeill’s (140 Capel St, North City) lies an old-style homely haven.
It’s much bigger than it looks from the outside but the roaring fireplaces and cozy nooks make it the ideal spot for settling in with an evening pint, traditional pub food, and a book from one of the many bookshops in Dublin on a rainy day.
In fact, McNeill’s started out as a traditional Irish musical instrument shop before growing into a pub and it still takes its musical heritage very seriously today.
You’ll love this pub because:
- Throughout the week you’ll enjoy performances from some of the country’s finest musicians.
- No matter when you visit, the Guinness will always be top notch.
- A fantastic experience all round and well worth stopping in.
Bonus: The Guinness Storehouse
We understand the pub purists among you may balk slightly at this entry. Hear us out though; we felt we could hardly write a full blog about where to drink the best Guinness in Dublin without mention of its spiritual home.
One of the capital’s top tourist attractions, it’s not hard to see why. The home of Guinness is a sensory celebration of Ireland’s iconic brew and a fascinating look at how it evolved throughout more than 250 years of Dublin’s history.
Add to that some of the best panoramic views of the city and the surrounding Wicklow mountains, we feel it’s the perfect way to round off our Dublin in a Day Tour. So if you want to take in the sites, before finishing up with a well-poured drink on the spot that has been making Guinness since 1769, we’d be more than happy to show you around.
The Guinness Storehouse is truly a one-of-a-kind place for a pint — after all, if you want the truth, it’s often best to head straight for the source!
_______________________
