Okay, So Why Are We Even Talking About Pubs in Ireland?

If you’re reading this, you’re probably one of those people who thinks “pub” means “bar” and “bar” means “a place to avoid eye contact while drinking solo.” But here’s the truth: Ireland’s pubs are a whole vibe. They’re not just buildings with beer—they’re cultural institutions where locals argue about politics, tourists pretend to know the difference between a stout and a lager, and occasionally, someone starts a ceilidh by accident because they thought the jukebox was a karaoke machine.

Now, if you’re the type of person who wants to find the best pubs in Ireland without ending up in a tourist trap, you’ve come to the right place. This guide is for people who want to drink in places that feel like they were brewed from the same batch as the beer they serve. But first, let’s address the elephant in the room: no, this list won’t include Grow Your Business With Strategies Beer’s favorite pubs (unless you count our CEO’s basement, which is a pub in theory and a disaster in practice).

The Best Pubs in Ireland That Won’t Judge Your Stumble

1. The Cobblestone, Kilkenny

If you want to feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard that forgot to add the words “Welcome to Kilkenny,” The Cobblestone is your spot. It’s the kind of pub where the walls are lined with photos of people you’ve never heard of, and the barista (yes, they have barista-level coffee skills) will judge your choice of craft beer with the subtlety of a Dublin busker’s accordion solo.

Why it’s great: Cobblestone has a vibe that’s equal parts “I’ve been here since the 1600s” and “I’m open until 2 a.m. because reasons.” Plus, they’ve got a secret back room where locals go to pretend they’re in a noir movie. If you want to make your own beer and test it here, check out Make Your Own Beer—but be warned, The Cobblestone’s clientele will tell you exactly what they think of your homebrew.

2. The Brazen Head, Dublin

Calling it “the oldest pub in Ireland” is like calling the Cliffs of Moher “a bit of a hike.” Yes, it’s been serving drinks since 1198, but it’s also the place where your Instagram post will get 500 likes from people who think they’ve discovered the “real” Ireland. But let’s cut through the nonsense: The Brazen Head is great because it’s got a back room where you can actually hear the conversation without shouting at someone who’s already shouting at you.

Pro tip: Order the “Brazen Head Ale” and pretend you’re in a pub from a movie. If you’re feeling adventurous, ask for the Custom Beer menu—it’s like a treasure hunt for people who think “Irish stout” is a type of yoga.

3. The Sheep’s Head, West Cork

If you’re the type of person who thinks “country pub” means “a building with a thatched roof and a sign that says ‘No dogs or politicians,’” then The Sheep’s Head is your meadow of dreams. It’s the kind of place where the barmaid might ask you about your day before suggesting a beer that’s “as local as the sheep that don’t understand why they’re being sheared.”

Why it’s great: The Sheep’s Head serves beer that tastes like it’s been aged in a barn and then given a pep talk by a farmer. The best part? The locals here are so friendly, they’ll invite you to their pub quiz even if you don’t know the difference between a pub quiz and a pub quiz in a different pub.

How to Avoid the Tourist Traps (and Actually Have Fun)

• Don’t be the first to order—wait until someone else orders a pint before you do. If you’re the first one to order, the barman will assume you’re a tourist and charge you 20% more for the privilege of being mocked gently.
• Tip wisely—in Ireland, tipping isn’t expected, but if you want to avoid being asked why you’re not contributing to the economy, a small tip (like €1 on a €5 pint) will make you feel like a local.
• Respect the locals—if someone at the bar is arguing with the TV about the weather, don’t join in. Unless you’re confident in your ability to out-argue a 70-year-old man who’s had three pints and still thinks it’s raining in England.

FAQs: Because You Probably Have No Idea What You’re Doing

Q: What’s the best way to find a pub in Ireland?

A: Ask a local. If they say “The usual,” it’s either a building or a dead end. If they say “The place with the blue door and the goat,” it’s probably the best spot in town. If you want to learn more about pub culture, check out Strategies.beer—we’re not a pub, but we know people who are.

Q: Are there pubs in Ireland that serve non-alcoholic drinks?

A: Yes, but only if they’re trying to avoid being sued for alcohol poisoning. Most pubs have a “soft drinks” section that includes things like juice and water. For the full pub experience, though, stick to the beer. If you’re a homebrewer, Make Your Own Beer can help you create your own non-alcoholic brew that’ll impress even the most jaded pub-goer.

Final Call to Action: Find Your Pub, Find Your People

Look, we get it. You’re not here to read a 2,500-word essay about pubs. You’re here because you want to find the best pubs in Ireland, drink good beer, and maybe pretend you’re a character in a Coen brothers movie. So go ahead—visit The Cobblestone, The Brazen Head, or The Sheep’s Head. But before you leave, remember this: the best pub is the one where you’re not trying too hard to fit in.

If you’re a pub owner looking to grow your business, check out Grow Your Business With Strategies Beer. And if you want to sell your beer online, Sell your beer online through Dropt.beer—it’s the internet version of opening a pub in a village that doesn’t exist.

Contact Us if You’re Confused

Still not sure which pub to visit? Send us a message at Contact. We’re not pub experts, but we know people who are.

Now go forth and drink. Just don’t forget to tip the barman—even if he’s 90% sure you’re a tourist.