About O'Donoghue's
Right in the heart of Merrion Square on lively Merrion Row, O'Donoghue's stands as a Dublin institution, a traditional pub where the soul of Irish music pulses every single night. Picture yourself stepping through the creaky wooden doors into a warm, dimly lit haven filled with the rich aroma of Guinness being poured and the unmistakable twang of fiddles and bodhráns echoing off the walls. This place birthed legends like The Dubliners and Christy Moore back in the 1960s, and today it keeps that raw, authentic trad session vibe alive. Whether you're a first-time visitor wandering from elegant Merrion Square park or a local popping in after a stroll along nearby Upper Merrion Street, O'Donoghue's wraps you in Dublin's musical heritage like a cosy wool jumper.
What to Expect
Expect non-stop live Irish traditional music sessions from a rotating cast of talented local musicians. Sessions kick off Monday to Thursday at 8pm until midnight, Friday from 6.30pm, Saturday from 5.30pm, and Sunday all day long. The pub buzzes with punters of all ages, from tourists clutching phrasebooks to grizzled regulars nursing pints. Grab a seat near the back room where the real magic happens, amid the haze of conversation and the clink of glasses. Food is hearty pub grub like beef and Guinness pie, perfect fuel for the night ahead. It's not a stage show; it's spontaneous, heartfelt trad music that draws you in.
Insider Tips
Arrive early, especially on weekends, as it packs out fast; front bar is standing room only by 7pm. Chat with the musicians during breaks; they're friendly and love sharing stories. Pair your pint with their famous seafood chowder for a true taste of Ireland. If you're staying nearby on Leinster Road or Fitzwilliam Street, it's a five-minute wander back. Check their site for special guest sessions. For the full experience, come on a Sunday afternoon when families join in. This is live music Merrion Square style: unpretentious, unforgettable, and utterly Dublin.