About O'Donoghue's Pub
Nestled on Merrion Row, mere minutes from St Stephen's Green's southern edge, O'Donoghue's is the legendary cradle of Irish folk music. Since 1789, this unpretentious powerhouse has launched stars like The Dubliners and Christy Moore, with spontaneous trad sessions erupting nightly from its cramped back room. The facade screams classic Dublin pub, red brick, hanging baskets blooming with flowers, while inside, the wooden beams echo with fiddles, flutes, and foot-stomping reels. It's hands-down one of the best pubs near St Stephen's Green for live music lovers.
What to Expect
A roaring fire, sticky floors from spilled stout, and punters of all ages belting out 'Whiskey in the Jar'. Food-wise, dive into shepherd's pie or bangers and mash amid the melody. No cover charge, but get there by 8pm to snag a seat, the place packs out faster than Temple Bar on a hen night.
Insider Tips
Sidestep the tourist traps; O'Donoghue's draws real locals mingling with savvy visitors. Chat up the musicians post-set for stories that'll make your mates jealous back home. After a Green picnic, wander over for sunset pints watching buses rumble by. Search 'pubs St Stephen's Green live music' and this tops the list, pure, unfiltered Irish spirit in every note and nip.
From U2's early gigs to countless ceol sessions, O'Donoghue's walls whisper folklore. It's where Dublin's musical heritage lives, breathes, and bounces off the rafters, making it essential for any 10 days in Dublin itinerary.