A Dublin craft beer guide to top rated beer spots and pubs
Find the best craft beer scene in Dublin with this practical Dublin craft beer guide. We map central taprooms, small batch breweries and bottle shops across neighbourhoods like Temple Bar, Smithfield and Stoneybatter. Head out for tasting flights, relaxed pints and short walks between great bars. Use the guide to plan a Dublin pub crawl or to seek out top rated beer spots in Dublin. Find craft beer bars Dublin locals trust, and pinpoint the best breweries in Dublin for tours and tasting sessions. Each pick notes atmosphere, usual pours and quick travel tips. Start your evening with a tasting flight, head out for a lively bar, or relax with a takeaway can and a riverside walk.
Guinness Open Gate Brewery
Image / Guinness Open Gate Brewery
Taste Dublin's brewing story, try experimental beers, and soak up panoramic city views from the rooftop.
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What to expect
Expect seven floors of hands-on exhibits, storytelling and brewery kit that explain how Guinness is made, marketed and enjoyed. Choose self-guided exploration or a guided stop for more detail, sample a selection of small pours or tasting flights, and browse a shop full of branded souvenirs. The industrial interior and colourful outdoor seating add charm, and the rooftop bar rewards visitors with clear views over Dublin's landmarks.
Plan your visit
Book ahead for busy periods, especially at weekends, or aim for a weekday afternoon for a calmer visit. Start on the ground floors to follow the brewing story, save the rooftop for last, and set aside time to explore the gift shop. Combine the visit with a short walk through the St. James's Gate area for extra local character.
DrinkStore
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Craft-beer heaven in Stoneybatter, with expert staff and a brilliant selection.
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What to expect
Expect shelves stacked with international and local craft beers, a deep whiskey selection, and thoughtful cocktail ingredients. Staff know the stock, offer tasting notes and steer choices with calm expertise. In-store browsing is relaxed and focused, and online orders arrive well packed and fast. Ideal for visitors after something special or locals topping up the home bar.
Plan your visit
Head in with time to browse the shelves and ask staff for a quick recommendation. Try the online shop for same-day delivery when in a hurry. Bring a tote for purchases, and consider a short chat with the owner for tasting notes and pairing ideas. Ideal stop before heading out for the evening.
Craft Central
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Find rare cans and local favourites in the heart of Dublin Southside.
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What to expect
Find a wide, carefully curated selection of craft beers from Ireland and overseas, presented in colourful cans and bottles. Staff are approachable and helpful, ready to point to new arrivals or local favourites. The site handles both in-store browsing and online orders, with many customers praising quick Dublin delivery. For fragile imports, ask about storage or canning dates to ensure peak freshness.
Plan your visit
Head out with a sense of curiosity, browse the shelves for standout label art, and ask staff for suggestions if hunting something new. Order online to secure fast local delivery, or pick up in person for a convenient to-go option. Bring a reusable bag and check canning dates on imported cans if freshness matters.
Fidelity Bar
Image / Sumin Lee (Soomeeng)
Retro sound, craft beers and friendly Smithfield vibes, great for an evening in Dublin.
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What to expect
Expect a music-first bar with serious attention to sound, seating and design. DJs spin records and live acts drop in, while custom speakers deliver clear audio that keeps conversation easy. Interiors blend retro and industrial touches, and the crowd is friendly and local. The beer list is curated and veggie options get strong praise. Service is attentive, making Fidelity a reliable pick for a relaxed drink, a lively night or a small celebration.
Plan your visit
Head out to Smithfield and slot Fidelity into an evening route through the neighbourhood. Start with a walk past street art, then drop in for a craft beer or cocktail. Choose a booth near the speakers for immersive sound or sit outside on a calm night. Ideal for group celebrations, date nights or a quiet solo stop, arrive early to secure a preferred seat.
The Black Sheep
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Craft pints, bold flavours and a warm, lively pub on central Dublin streets.
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What to expect
Find a classic pub mood with a modern edge, lively crowds and attentive staff ready with beer recommendations. The interior shows off local artwork and a casual layout that suits both small groups and solo visitors. Outdoor tables bring city energy when weather allows. Board games and large tables make it a social spot, while gluten-free beer options cater to specific needs. Expect a friendly, informal scene rather than a quiet dining room.
Plan your visit
Head out for late afternoon or evening to catch the liveliest atmosphere, or drop in on quieter weekday afternoons for an easy table. Ask staff for a beer suggestion, pick a table with artwork to enjoy, and linger at the outdoor seating if the weather is fine. Great for meet-ups, board-game nights and relaxed after-work drinks.
The Beer Temple
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Craft taps and Temple Bar buzz, served with friendly local energy.
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What to expect
Find a busy front bar for atmosphere and a quieter back room for conversation. The taps focus on craft ales with options to sample several styles. Staff are approachable and helpful, and ordering is done at the bar. Occasional live music lifts the mood, while cosy wooden interior and chalkboard menus make for relaxed, informal evenings. Suitable for solo visitors, small groups and business meet-ups seeking central energy.
Plan your visit
Head in for an afternoon pint or an evening out; seating is a mix of bar stools and tables. Order at the bar, build a sampler if undecided, then settle in. Choose the front for buzz, the back for quieter conversation. Pair the visit with a stroll around Temple Bar to make the most of the area’s nightlife.
Porterhouse Temple Bar
Image / TripAdvisor
Lively Temple Bar pub: craft beers, live music and authentic Dublin atmosphere.
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What to expect
Expect lively, sociable rooms spread over several floors, each with a slightly different vibe. Live music often fills the air, creating a busy, upbeat soundtrack. A wide beer offering and solid drink choices suit curious tasters. Staff are welcoming and efficient, the space feels clean, and vegetarian options are available. Accessibility may be limited in parts of the building, and sound levels can rise during peak times.
Plan your visit
Head here after a day of sightseeing along the river or through the city centre. Arrive earlier if a quieter spot is preferred, or come later to catch live music and a livelier crowd. Travel light, choose comfy shoes for standing room, and pick a seat on the level that suits the mood: relaxed and chatty, or right by the band for full energy.
Guinness Storehouse
Image / William V
Seven floors of story, craft and city views, discover Dublin's brewing legend.
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What to expect
Expect a museum-style journey across seven floors, each focusing on a different chapter of brewing, advertising and local heritage. Interactive exhibits and multi-media displays explain ingredients and technique, while hands-on sessions teach pouring skills. Look out for atmospheric barrel rooms, bold visual installations and plenty of photo opportunities. The top-level viewing space rewards the visit with wide city panoramas and a lively social atmosphere.
Plan your visit
Book tickets in advance to avoid queues, then move through the floors at an easy pace. Combine the visit with a wander around The Liberties for a local flavour. Head to the Academy for a hands-on pouring session, pause at the exhibits for photos, and save the rooftop for clear-day views of Dublin.