MCDAIDS
the large tiled decoration behind the bar proudly declares that McDaid’s of Harry Street has been on the go since 1873. The portraits of Dublin’s literary greats are particularly poignant since most of them used to frequent this old Victorian haunt. It’s not hard to imagine Behan or Joyce sitting at the ‘h’ shaped bar or tucked under the stairs at the back. We love the sublime details: the high ceilings painted a deep red, the wonderfully colourful arched windows above the door, fit for a Parisian cathedral, the large and grandiose mirror opposite the bar, and the bookcase high up on the wall which must be as old as the dusty books it holds. And all of this under the electric light of two modified gas lamps that dangle lazily over the patrons, whose Italian leather shoes and high heels clack on the wooden floor... A Dublin gem. (JdeBB) Harry Street, Dublin 2. 679 4395
THE OCTAGON
snugly slotted into the Clarence Hotel, this eight-sided bar is frequented by people who look like PJ Harvey and rich tourists from Munich who can’t tell the difference between Bono and Gavin Friday. Despite the fame factor, the bar staff are friendly and good at what they do: even when it’s crowded you’ll soon have a generous, well-made cocktail in hand. We recommend the Apple Strudel Martini – yes, it’s €14, but you’ll be vibrating out the door after a couple. The Octagon is a great place for a first date – it’s never too packed or so loud that you can’t hear what the other half is saying. Although sometimes that’s what you want... They’ve stopped doing the bar food during the day, unfortunately – we miss their soup – but you can still get afternoon tea if you so desire. Mmmm, macaroons. (TD) The Clarence Hotel, 6-8 Wellington Quay, Dublin 2. theclarence.ie
THE VILLAGER
this place truly feels like a country pub. Situated in the quiet, leafy surroundings of Chapelizod, it’s hard not to feel instantly relaxed as you take in the plush carpets, oak-lined walls and comfy couches. Patrons are a nice mix of old-timers who have been coming here for years, and hip 20-somethings who have made the bar their own since moving into the surrounding apartment complexes. In the eternal debate over which pub in Dublin offers the best pint of Guinness, the Villager deserves to make the shortlist at the very least. The beer garden is spacious and well-heated. The bar menu offers just toasted ham and cheese sandwiches, but served on wholesome batch bread and with a decent side of crisps, they’ll fill a gap and then some. Best day to visit the Villager? Definitely a Sunday. Not for raucous hell-raising action, but rather for a decent chinwag and great service. And did we mention those very lovely pints? (PH) 31 Main Street, Chapelizod. 626 1766
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