Here’s why the Dublin Speakeasy Culture is Irresistible

What is the Best Bar in Dublin?

It’s no secret that Ireland is famous for traditional pubs filled with locals drinking beer. However, things have been changing for a while now. Lately, it feels like the Dublin speakeasy culture is dominating upscale drinking. Here are my picks for the 5 essential bars that are pushing the mixology boundaries – I consider them the best bars in Dublin.

The original Dublin speakeasy: The Bar with No Name.

Denoted by a subtle carved snail hanging over 3 Fade Street, the entrance of this Dublin speakeasy feels more like you are walking into your friend’s apartment. The restored Victorian townhouse serves up cocktails amidst purposefully mismatched furniture and oversized photos. The sizable patio always has a good crowd, and the vibe here is particularly friendly.

Liquor Rooms.

Just like the moniker says, several different rooms wind into each other at this speakeasy style bar. Located in the basement (don’t let that put you off), the decor feels like something out of the 1920’s with old fashioned wallpaper and an extremely clever menu.

The small dance floor doesn’t have a ton of room, but there are lots of different areas to hangout in this cavernous space. The cocktails are really something special. For staying consistently busy, the quality of their complex libations never wavers.

The classy Dublin speakeasy: Ferrier & Draper.

With stone walls downstairs, this Dublin speakeasy has a swanky vibe. Playing host to patrons in the Powerscourt Townhouse, a Georgian mansion on South William Street, the fashionable cocktails are just part of the fun. Spread out over three floors, each space is decidedly quirky with a hint of whimsical romance. 

Peruke & Periwig.

Old school, this charming throwback has seriously inventive cocktails. Instead of being listed by alcohol, drinks are featured by the musical spirit they evoke (i.e., rock n’ roll or jazz). Oil paintings and traditional decor provide a hipster vibe that resonates with locals as much as tourists. Sophisticated without an ounce of pretension, the ground floor of this Dublin speakeasy might fool you into thinking this is a run of the mill gin joint. Just take a walk upstairs, because the modern vibe is as on trend as it is en vogue.

The secret Dublin speakeasy: The Blind Pig.

Going here is a cool experience but be sure to email the Pig ahead of time to receive the password and secret directions to this speakeasy. Hint, you will walk down a flight of stairs that say Shhhh! It feels like an adventure, and the mixologists take cocktails seriously. Each drink is made with great care and the ice is individually hot stamped. Some people take the bar’s theme literally and dress up like the flappers featured on the secret sliding doors.