About The Cellar Bar & Restaurant
Hidden beneath the Merrion Hotel on Upper Merrion Street, The Cellar Bar is a cosy contrast to its upstairs sibling, offering one of the cosiest spots among Merrion Square restaurants. Dating back to the hotel's vaults, this subterranean haven blends rustic charm with contemporary flair , think vaulted ceilings, candlelit tables, and a crackling fireplace that welcomes you on Dublin's drizzly evenings. It's famed for its award-winning Irish comfort food, curated by head chef who sources from artisan producers across the Emerald Isle. Perfect for pre-theatre dinners before a show at the Gate Theatre nearby, or a casual pint after wandering Merrion Square's Georgian facades.
What to Expect
Dishes like Guinness-braised beef pie with creamy mash, or fresh seafood chowder teeming with Dublin Bay prawns set the tone. The bar boasts 100 Irish whiskeys and craft beers from microbreweries. Veggie options abound, including wild mushroom risotto. The vibe is pub-meets-gastropub: lively yet intimate, with live Irish music some nights. Pricing sits at premium level, delivering value in this prime Merrion Square location.
Insider Tips
Opt for the chef's table for a personalised experience. Tuesdays feature whiskey tastings , book early. Pair with a stroll to nearby Leinster House. Locals head here post-rugby matches. Searching for authentic Merrion Square dining? This vaulted gem delivers history, heartiness, and hospitality in spades.