Dublin craft beer guide: bars, breweries and top taps

Image / Google AI

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.

Updated
10 min read

Guinness Open Gate Brewery

Google4.6
Tripadvisor4.5
This image is an example of exterior photography. It shows a beer garden with colorful decor, benches, tables, and umbrellas. The composition is well-centered, and the elements in the frame are arranged in a visually pleasing way. The image is well-lit and appears to be taken during the day with direct sunlight, which provides bright, even lighting. It seems to be color-accurate with no apparent color cast or saturation issues. The sharpness is excellent, and the details are crisp and clear. Based on the above criteria: - The image successfully communicates the essence of the space, with a slight deduction for the presence of a few people in the background. - There's some leniency given for exterior and interior photography. Score: 90 Strengths: - Excellent composition and arrangement of elements - Good representation of the space's atmosphere - Adequate lighting and color accuracy - The photo is visually appealing and captures the essence of the space Weaknesses: - Contains a few people in the background, which may be seen as unwanted elements

Image / Guinness Open Gate Brewery

Taste Dublin's brewing story, try experimental beers, and soak up panoramic city views from the rooftop.

Good for

#GuinnessOpenGate#DublinBrewery#BreweryTour#GravityBarViews#BeerTasting

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.

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DrinkStore

Retail
Google4.7
Tripadvisor4
Admin

Image / Web

Craft-beer heaven in Stoneybatter, with expert staff and a brilliant selection.

Good for

#Craft_beer#Whiskey_lovers#Stoneybatter#Dublin_drinks#DrinkStore

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.

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Craft Central

Retail Food and Beverage Retail Beer Store
Google4.6
Tripadvisor4.5
Admin

Image / Web

Find rare cans and local favourites in the heart of Dublin Southside.

Good for

#CraftBeer#DublinDrinks#BottleShop#BeerHunt#LocalPicks

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.

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Fidelity Bar

££ Dining and Drinking Bar
Google4.7
Tripadvisor4
This image is an example of interior photography. It shows a bar with seating, a turntable, and a Pioneer DJ controller. The image is well-composed and well-lit. The colors are accurate, and the image is sharp. The industrial-style interior design is nicely captured, and the empty space gives it a clean look. The image is free of unwanted elements and appears to be taken during the day with artificial lighting. The sharpness is adequate, and the details are clearly visible. Based on the above criteria: - The image successfully captures the ambiance of the space. - There are no unwanted elements or distractions. Score: 85 Strengths: - Well-composed and well-lit - Accurate colors and sharp details - Clean and clutter-free - Good representation of the space's design and atmosphere Weaknesses: - The empty space may not be appealing to everyone. - The lack of people may make the space appear less inviting.

Image / Sumin Lee (Soomeeng)

Retro sound, craft beers and friendly Smithfield vibes, great for an evening in Dublin.

Good for

#CraftBeer#LiveMusic#Smithfield#RetroVibes#DublinNightlife

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.

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The Black Sheep

££ Dining and Drinking Restaurant Dining and Drinking Bar Dining and Drinking Restaurant Gastropub Dining and Drinking Brewery
Google4.4
Tripadvisor4.5
Admin

Image / Web

Craft pints, bold flavours and a warm, lively pub on central Dublin streets.

Good for

#CraftBeer#Gastropub#DublinPubs#GlutenFree#CityNightlife

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.

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The Beer Temple

££ Dining and Drinking Bar
Google4.1
Tripadvisor4.5
Admin

Image / Web

Craft taps and Temple Bar buzz, served with friendly local energy.

Good for

#Craft_beer#Temple_Bar#Dublin_nightlife#Live_music#City_bar

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.

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Porterhouse Temple Bar

££ Dining and Drinking Bar
Google4.5
Tripadvisor4.5
**Image Assessment:** - **Category:** Exterior Photography - **Composition:** The image captures the entrance of "The Porterhouse" with part of the street view, including pedestrians, which adds to the liveliness. The composition gives a sense of the place and its urban setting. - **Exposure:** The exposure is well balanced with bright and shadowed areas, suggesting a sunny day, which contributes to a friendly and inviting atmosphere. - **Color Accuracy:** Colors appear vibrant, especially the blues and earth tones, enhancing the appeal of the venue. - **Lighting:** The lighting is natural and highlights the façade of the establishment well, though the shadows may be a touch harsh, suggesting that the photo was taken when the sun was high. - **Sharpness:** The image is reasonably sharp, with clear details evident on the signage and the wooden barrel. - **Unwanted Elements:** There is some shadowing in the foreground from people walking by, which is somewhat distracting, but not severely so. - **Conveyance of Atmosphere:** The sunlit façade and open doors convey a welcoming atmosphere. The presence of people adds to the ambiance, suggesting an active and popular location. **Score: 78** The image successfully communicates the essence of the space and visually conveys the atmosphere of the location. The presence of pedestrians gives it a dynamic feel, and the warmth of the day is palpable. Points were deducted for the shadows in the foreground and the slight lack of sharpness that could be improved for a flawless presentation. Overall, it is a strong representation of the exterior but could be refined for a higher score.

Image / TripAdvisor

Lively Temple Bar pub: craft beers, live music and authentic Dublin atmosphere.

Good for

#TempleBar#DublinPub#LiveMusic#CraftBeer#AuthenticDublin

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.

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Guinness Storehouse

Dining and Drinking Brewery
Google4.4
Tripadvisor4.5
Score: 80 Description: The image appears to be an exterior photograph of a building, which, according to the visible signage, is associated with the Guinness brand located at St James's Gate in Dublin, Ireland. It is a well-composed photo with good use of lighting that enhances the texture and colors of the building's architecture, conveying a sense of the location's historical and cultural atmosphere. Strengths: - The composition effectively captures the building's distinct character with its rounded bay windows and the brickwork, which provides a sense of depth and interest. - The lighting conditions are well managed, with no significant overexposed or underexposed areas, preserving details in both the shadows and highlights. - The colors appear accurate and give a realistic portrayal of the building materials and the environment. Weaknesses: - Although the photograph is mostly sharp, there may be slight softness around the edges, which can affect the overall perception of sharpness. - The signage, while a key feature, hints at promotional content, which may not be desired depending on specific image use guidelines. - Presence of elements like the road signage and visible vehicles, although minimal, can be considered unwanted elements in a strictly curated assessment context. Additional areas for improvement could involve waiting for a moment with less traffic or removing minor distractions to achieve a higher score as per the guidelines provided. However, within the context of exterior and interior photography, where some leniency is allowed, this image does fairly well at conveying the ambiance and character of the location.

Image / William V

Seven floors of story, craft and city views, discover Dublin's brewing legend.

Good for

#GuinnessStorehouse#DublinAttractions#BreweryTour#IrishHeritage#GravityBarViews

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.

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