Undoubtedly, Dublin has some of the best pubs in Ireland – if not the world. Often though, what does get overlooked is the abundance of fancy bars in Dublin which boast the best mixologists, most decadent décor and coolest crowds.
Whether you’re in search of somewhere suave to spend the night, a pre-theatre cocktail, post-work unwind or a date night spot, these are the top five fancy bars in Dublin bound to impress.
5. The Chelsea Drugstore
This 20th Century drugstore has been renovated to the highest standard, becoming certainly one of the slickest spots to hang out at in Dublin. Located on George’s Street, amidst the crowds and buzzing bars, The Chelsea Drugstore stands out with its speakeasy retro signage and characterful façade.
With an all-original cocktail menu to excite, a mouth-watering menu and slick and sophisticated décor, guests will come for one drink and stay for the night.
The Chelsea Drugstore also host mixology masterclasses too so fans of this fine establishment can get a little insight into one of the best cocktail bars in town.
Classes include an introduction to the art of cocktails, the “Garden to Glass” class, educating participants on how to infuse common botanicals into your very own concoctions and the “Tiki-Tastic” class, which celebrates and incorporates all things Polynesian.
Address: S Great George’s St South Great George’s Street, Dublin 2, D02 XY71, Ireland
4. Bow Lane
Located on Aungier Street (the street linking George’s Street and Camden Street) is Bow Lane, a place equally as reputable for its weekend brunch as it is for its late-night happenings.
Smart and stylish, this venue has an “Industrial Art Deco” décor with low lighting and rich wood and leather furniture. With chief mixologists on hand, this is the perfect spot for a date night or dinner with friends.
Dig into fancy finger food such as Duck Sliders or Truffle Fries, or go for a sit-down dinner in its tasty-as-hell restaurant. Either or, you’re stomach will be thanking you.
Check out its website for all upcoming events including bottomless brunches, the Martini Matinee, soon-to-play DJs and the talk of the town: the Free Flow Supper Club – a late-night weekend bottomless drink dinner deal.
Address: 17 Aungier St, Dublin, D02 XF38, Ireland
3. Vintage Cocktail Club (VCC)
This secret little Dublin hangout has been luring cool crowds of cocktail lovers for years. Hidden right under our noses in Temple Bars – Dublin’s tourist centre – the VCC is the leading speakeasy in Dublin city.
Drawing inspiration from the 1920’s, this golden age bar is accessed via a buzzer that hides behind a black unmarked door on one of the busiest streets in Dublin. Saying that, once you simply step inside, you are transported to a different time and place, forgetting the hustle and bustle of the city beyond its walls.
This time-capsule fancy bar in Dublin has been designed to the highest standard ensuring guests are enchanted by decadent décor, indulgent cocktails and a creative menu of sharing plates and rich mains.
Book in advance to avoid disappointment, and seeing as this venue is a nod to the glamour of the 20’s, it wouldn’t hurt to dress the part too.
Address: 15 Crown Alley, Temple Bar, Dublin, D02 E229, Ireland
2. Farrier & Draper
This glamorous Georgian townhouse was renovated with style and sophistication at the forefront of design, no doubt. But, its fun flair for contrasting colours and rich materials are what makes this decadent bar a cut above the rest.
Whether you’re dining in the luscious La Cucina restaurant, sipping a creative concoction designed especially for you by one of the in-house mixologists or attending one of the popular cocktail master classes, Farrier & Draper is a win-win.
Utterly fancy whilst remaining laid back, this city centre bar is the perfect place to don your glad rags and head out for a few brews.
Address: Unit 1, 24, 24a, Powerscourt Townhouse Centre, 59 William St S, Dublin 2, Ireland
1. Peruke & Periwig
Set just a stone’s throw from Grafton Street, this inconspicuous little bar packs quite the punch. Balancing style with effortlessness, Peruke & Periwig is a speakeasy which isn’t over-the-top trendy, making it the ultimate bar to head to when in search of a little indulgence.
Set on the ground floor of number 31 Dawson Street, this grotto of cocktail and catering delights is fitted with rich furnishings, decadent décor and candlelight – the perfect place for any date.
Address: 31 Dawson St, Dublin 2, Ireland
