D
ublin is an exceptional city to go out in. Whether you’re in the mood for a relaxed night out at the back of a pub or a dazzling one “on the tiles”, Dublin offers stacks of choice. There are a couple of factors that make this city great for going out. For one, Dublin is a compact capital, made for bouncing between places, so if you end up somewhere that feels a bit off, you can easily move on to the next hotspot without any hassle. The other plus to this city is the people – you’ll rarely find yourself out in Dublin with no one to talk to. So whether you’re in the mood for a cocktail in a sultry 1940s setting; up for a high-octane club night or simply looking to hide away in a cosy snug with a pint of Guinness, we’ll show you where to go …
The Sugar Club, housed in a converted cinema, just off Stephen’s Green, is the place to catch cult movie screenings; live music and great dance nights; thesugarclub.com.
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THE workman’s
The Workman’s is Dublin’s alternative superclub that keeps getting bigger and better. They’ve recently opened the lone ranger-themed Bison Bar – a retro living-room space off the main room upstairs – and added a brand new bar on the smoking terrace. Downstairs generally has a more rock and indie vibe and hosts live bands on the stage several nights a week. The music upstairs leans more towards hip hop, dance and soul although it totally depends on who’s working the decks. Dress coDe Wear whatever you like, besides tracksuit pants. Top Tip The Bison Bar is actually connected through the back stairs into the Workman’s. No need to leave or, on a busy night, queue. 01 670 6692; workmansclub.com.
The Globe & RíRÁ
Upstairs, The Globe, on George’s Street, has an indie pub-like atmosphere, while downstairs in the basement sister club RíRá, plays funky tunes well into the early hours. We’ve seen The Edge take over a corner here. 01 671 1220; theglobe.ie.
Vintage Cocktail Club
Despite being in the centre of Temple Bar, this cocktail club is a class act. The door is very subtly marked and you need to knock or buzz to enter. Inside, displays of taxidermy animals, curtained roomdividers and 1920s Art Deco paraphernalia combine to create a mood of retro indulgence. You can get dinner here from 6pm and brunch on weekends from 12pm; however, the real reason to come is, naturally, the cocktails. Try a bowl of punch (you might want to share) or a Lucien Gaudin cocktail, named after the famous French fencer. Dress coDe Think The Beautiful and Damned meets Midnight in Paris. 01 675 3547; vintagecocktailclub.com.
Long hall
This beautiful old pub housed in a listed Victorian building on George’s Street is steeped in history and colour. Come here for long, cosy chats in the snug and one of the city’s best pints of Guinness. 01 475 1590.
Everleigh Gardens
Although this relatively new hotspot on Harcourt Street is 70 per cant outdoors, you’ll never be exposed to the elements thanks to some clever roof covering. The décor is glossy and slightly kitsch but creates a great sense of fun. The Garden (although, truthfully, it is more of a grown-up playground) is overlooked by a balcony, Romeo and Juliet style, where resident DJs do their dance-music thing. Dress coDe Competitive - think glossy hair, high heels for the girls, and men in shirts and loafers. Drink Their signature drink is served in a colourful watering can with a long straw! Top Tip Tables can be reserved out in the garden. 086 333 7710; everleighgarden.com.
dice bar
The Dice Bar has a happy relationship with the Block T studios across the road, sponsoring their events and welcoming the large overspilling crowds after an opening. As a result this is a good spot to meet both young and established artists and creatives. The DJs spin vinyl, generally old soul 45s. Top Tip Make friends with the owner and you could be invited upstairs for drinks in the back sitting room. 01 633 3936; thatsitdublin.com.