As the cultural and political capital of the Republic of Ireland, which has become increasingly progressive and gay-friendly in recent years, having recently legalized same-sex marriage, friendly and energetic Dublin is in the heart of the country’s gay scene. This deeply literary and historic metropolis with approximately 530,000 residents within its city limits hosts the popular Dublin Gay Pride in late June, and in the heart of Temple Bar’s bustling, yet touristy, nightlife district, you’ll find a handful. of extremely popular gays. bars.
The city doesn’t have too many specifically LGBT nightspots, but the few establishments here are centrally located, cozy, and usually quite crowded on weekends. Plus, if you venture into any pub, wine bar, or restaurant cocktail lounge in the heart of the city, you’re welcome, no matter your sexual orientation. People tend to get along all over Ireland, and Dublin is among the friendliest cities in Europe.
Here’s a compilation, in alphabetical order, of the most popular hangouts for gays, lesbians, and their friends in this compact and beautiful city divided by the picturesque River Liffey. If you’re looking for a slightly more steamy atmosphere, also take a look at the Dublin Gay Bath Guide.
The George – Bar gay
The George (George’s St., across from Dame Lane, just south of Dame St., 1-478-2983) is one of the most iconic gay bars in Europe and by far the most popular LGBT establishment in Dublin. It’s a good-sized bar with a stage with wonderfully campy and fun drag shows and games, from bingo with Shirley Temple Bar to Wednesday’s popular Space N Veda variety show. Weekends tend to be especially crowded, with the best DJs and dancing, and in the back, there is a large patio that smokers flock to along with many others looking to chat in a slightly quieter spot. The George is in a popular section of the city center, a short walk from several great restaurants (Fallon & Byrne, Rustic Stone), and from here it’s also an easy walk to the handful of other gay bars in Dublin.
Jack Nealon Pub – Bar Mixto
With its gold roof and ornate woodwork, the beautiful Jack Nealon Pub (165 Capel St., 1-872-3247), occupying a brightly painted, red, 18th-century building just across bustling Capel Street from Pantibar (see below) is a favorite place to drink and chat among all Dubliners. The proximity to Pantibar leads to many LGBT people on many nights. The bar he keeps here is particularly friendly.
McDaids Pub – Joint Bar
It’s plain and simple, and in a great location that borders the trendy Grafton Street shopping district, but McDaids Pub (3 Harry St., 1-679-4395) is the biggest claim to fame that it has been since 1779. Yes You are looking to catch a pint from the sometimes overly cheerful crowds of Temple Bar, this is an ideal place.
Oscars Cafe Bar – Mixed bar and restaurant
Named for the witty and tongue-in-cheek, and once infamous icon of Irish gay literature Oscar Wilde, the Oscars actually have two locations in Dublin, both extremely supportive and welcoming to LGBT people. When the country was in the middle of its referendum on marriage equality, the Oscars used “voteyes # marref” as their Wi-Fi password. Located diagonally across from elegant Merrion Square, on the corner that holds the famous Oscar Wilde statue, you’ll find Oscars Cafe Bar in Smithfield Square (6 Smithfield Square, 1-529-7341), a cozy spot for cocktails, beer, and three daily meals including traditional Irish breakfasts and creative pub fare for lunch and dinner. A 15-minute walk to the west, past Temple Bar and skirting the Dublin City Hall complex, Oscars Cafe Bar in Christchurch (16-18 Fishamble St., 1-555-1442) serves equally delicious food and drink as well attracts a good mix of people, straight and gay, but always friendly. The Christchurch venue is large enough for events as well, and has hosted several gay weddings.
Pantibar – Bar gay
Something of an institution thanks to its extraordinary owner, the great diva, LGBT activist and drag icon Rory O’Neill, Pantibar (7 1, 8 Capel St., no phone) opened in 2007 and is located in a space of brightly colored on Dublin’s inner Northside, just a short walk across the River Liffey across the Grattan Bridge, it’s an easy walk from the city’s other gay bars. The pub is a great place to chat with the locals and meet new friends. Of course, there are drag shows, but even when there is nothing to do in terms of entertainment, this is a super friendly place to drink, and the crowd is extremely eclectic – women and men of all ages and styles. Rory O’Neill has been the subject of documentary and great news coverage over the years, and his efforts have been seen by many as central to Ireland. ‘
