8 Pubs that Serve the Best Guinness in Dublin
When you’re in Dublin, few topics spark as much debate as where to find the best pint of Guinness.
Locals and visitors alike have strong opinions, and the discussion often covers everything from how the Guinness is poured to the atmosphere of the pub itself.
Some swear by the creaminess of the pint, while others focus on the vibe of the place. With so many factors at play, it’s no wonder everyone has their favorite spot.
The truth is, finding the perfect pint isn’t just about the beer—it’s about the experience. A pub might serve an amazing Guinness one day and an average one the next.
It also depends on personal taste; what one person loves, another might find just okay. That’s why telling which place serves the best Guinness in Dublin is not as simple.
Still, here are the 8 pubs that we think serve the best pint of Guinness in Dublin!
8 Best Guinness in Dublin
1. Bowe’s, Fleet Street
Google Rating: 4.7
Step through the door of Bowe’s Lounge Bar on Fleet Street and you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time. This perfectly preserved pub stands as a testament to old Dublin, where the atmosphere remains unchanged despite the city’s rapid modernization around it.
Once the favorite watering hole for Fleet Street journalists, today you might spot a Trinity College student quietly reviewing notes in the corner. The bar still attracts writers from the nearby Irish Times who appreciate its authentic character.
While Bowe’s is known for its impressive whiskey selection, the Guinness here is truly something special. Each pint comes with the perfect creamy head and pours with a silky smoothness that Guinness aficionados are on the quest for. The comfortable surroundings make it easy to lose track of time as you enjoy your drink.
The bartenders add to the experience with their friendly chat and genuine Dublin hospitality. If you’re lucky enough to snag the snug at the front—widely considered one of the city’s best—you’re in for a truly authentic Dublin pub experience.
2. Doheny & Nesbitt, Baggot Street Lower
Google Rating: 4.5
Dating back to the 1840s, Doheny & Nesbitt stands as one of Dublin’s most beautiful Victorian-era pubs. Its historic charm is immediately evident in the carefully preserved woodwork and original features that will transport you to another era.
The pub has two special “snugs”—small, enclosed seating areas that offer privacy and coziness for those looking to enjoy their pint of Guinness away from the bustle. These intimate spaces have hosted countless conversations and gatherings over generations.
Beyond serving an excellent pint of Guinness with perfect temperature and consistency, D&N has become a cultural hub. You’ll often find live music sessions filling the space with traditional Irish tunes. If you are a sports lover, you’ll appreciate those big games that are regularly screened here, creating an electric atmosphere when Dublin teams are playing.
The pub’s rich history and perfect pints have made it a favorite among locals and visitors alike who understand that a great Guinness is about more than just the drink—it’s about the setting too.
3. John Kavanagh “The Gravediggers”, Glasnevin
Google Rating: 4.7
Nestled beside Dublin’s historic Glasnevin Cemetery, John Kavanagh’s—affectionately known as “The Gravediggers”—has earned its reputation for serving one of the best Guinness in Dublin. About 45 minutes from central Dublin, this family-run pub became internationally recognized after appearing on Anthony Bourdain’s “The Layover.”
What makes this pub special is its dedication to tradition. The establishment features two distinct sides with separate entrances—one slightly more modern with food service, the other a classic old-school bar focusing solely on drinks. Both deserve your attention.
The absence of TV means conversation flows naturally, and the dog-friendly policy adds to the homey atmosphere. But it’s the Guinness that truly shines here—consistently rated among the best in Dublin, with bartenders who take pride in their pour.
Don’t miss their famous coddle—a traditional Dublin dish of slow-boiled sausage, bacon, and potatoes. Though its pink meat and clear broth might not win beauty contests, this comfort food represents authentic Dublin cuisine at its finest, served with generously buttered bread perfect for dipping.
4. The Blue Light, Sandyford
Google Rating: 4.7
Perched on the foothills of the Dublin mountains, The Blue Light has been warming Dublin souls for nearly 300 years. This small pub, built with hand-cut Barnacullia granite stone, looks as though it was plucked straight from the 1700s and set down in our modern world.
The pub’s history is as rich as its Guinness. Originally built to serve local quarrymen, its name comes from the blue light that owners would display as a signal to smugglers in Dublin Bay that the coast was clear to bring contraband ashore, avoiding customs officials and their hefty taxes.
Step outside to the beer garden and you’ll understand why locals make the journey up the mountain. The panoramic views capture all of Dublin below—from Dalkey Head to the Hill of Howth, with the bay stretching between them. There’s something magical about enjoying a perfectly poured pint while overlooking the city from this height.
Whether it’s the mountain air or the careful attention of the bartenders, The Blue Light consistently serves one of the most satisfying pints of Guinness in Dublin. Creamy, properly settled, and reasonably priced—proving that sometimes the best experiences require venturing beyond the city center.
Also Read: Best Pubs in Ireland
5. Mulligan’s, Poolbeg Street
Google Rating: 4.6
Step into Mulligan’s and you’re walking into a piece of Dublin history. This pub has stood its ground while everything around it changed. The worn wooden floors and traditional bar speak of decades serving the perfect pint to locals and visitors alike.
What makes the Guinness at Mulligan’s special is its velvety texture with a slight iron-y taste that true stout lovers appreciate. The pub has welcomed an incredibly diverse crowd over the years – from Trinity College students to journalists from the old Irish Press Group next door and even celebrities from the now-demolished Theatre Royal.
There’s no fancy gimmicks or tourist traps here. Just a no-nonsense spot where you can enjoy a quiet catch-up with friends while having one of Dublin’s best Guinness. The staff pours with patience, letting each glass settle properly before topping it off with the perfect head.
6. McNeill’s, Capel Street
Google Rating: 4.7
Don’t let the small entrance fool you. Behind McNeill’s unassuming doorway on bustling Capel Street lies a warm, homely haven that’s much bigger than it looks from the outside. With roaring fireplaces and cozy nooks, it’s perfect for nursing a pint on a rainy Dublin afternoon.
McNeill’s has an interesting history – it began as a traditional Irish musical instrument shop before evolving into a pub. This musical heritage remains strong today, with regular performances from some of Ireland’s finest musicians throughout the week.
What really stands out here is how consistently excellent their Guinness is. The staff takes pride in serving a perfect pint every time – rich and creamy with that signature bitter finish. Whether you visit at noon or midnight, you’ll enjoy a fantastic drinking experience in this authentic Dublin pub.
7. Ryan’s, Parkgate Street
Google Rating: 4.5
Just a stone’s throw from Phoenix Park, Ryan’s is a beautifully restored Victorian pub that balances historical charm with modern comfort. Walking in feels like stepping back in time, with original features like gas lamps, whiskey barrels, and traditional snugs creating a unique atmosphere.
The walls tell stories through photographs from the past century – look for images of the first Grand Prix in Phoenix Park and the iconic Guinness toucan. This attention to history extends to their Guinness pouring technique, which follows traditional methods to ensure each pint is perfectly presented.
If hunger strikes while enjoying your pint, you’re in luck. Ryan’s houses an FX Buckley steakhouse, offering some of the best steaks in Dublin to complement your drink. The combination of exceptional Guinness, historical surroundings, and quality food makes Ryan’s a must-visit on any Dublin pub crawl.
8. The Goose Tavern, Sion Hill Road
Google Rating: 4.4
Sometimes the best discoveries are off the beaten path. The Goose Tavern in the Drumcondra/Whitehall area may not be on every tourist map, but locals know it pours some of Dublin’s finest Guinness.
The place is pretty simple – a small section with some seating to your left when you enter, and a larger seating area to the right. What makes The Goose special is its truly traditional feel, with old furnishings and interesting knick-knacks decorating the walls, creating a comfortable, lived-in atmosphere.
No matter when you visit – midweek afternoon or busy weekend evening – two things remain consistent: there’s usually plenty of seating available, and the quality of the pints never wavers. For visitors willing to venture beyond the city center, take the 123 bus to Marino Institute and enjoy a 10-minute walk to discover this hidden Guinness place.
