About The Stag's Head
Step into The Stag's Head on Duke Lane Upper, and you'll feel the heartbeat of old Dublin pulsing through its stained-glass windows and mahogany bars. This Victorian-era gem, established in 1770, sits just a stone's throw from St Stephen's Green, making it a perfect pitstop after a stroll through the park's leafy paths. With its iconic deer antler motifs and mosaic-tiled floors, it's one of the best pubs in St Stephen's Green for soaking up authentic Irish pub culture. The air is thick with the aroma of sizzling sausages and creamy mash from their hearty menu, think traditional Irish stew or fish and chips that could feed a leprechaun army.
What to Expect
Expect a cosy, snug atmosphere where locals perch on high stools nursing creamy pints of Guinness. The pub divides into a lively front bar for quick drinks and a more relaxed back room for dining. Live traditional music sessions pop up on weekends, drawing fiddlers and bodhrán players who make the rafters ring. It's not just a pub; it's a slice of Dublin history, once a haunt for writers and revolutionaries plotting over porter.
Insider Tips
Arrive early on match days, Dubliners flock here for rugby or GAA fever. Pair your pint with their famous seafood chowder for the ultimate comfort food. If you're exploring Grafton Street, slip down the lane from Duke Street; it's hidden enough to feel like a local secret but central for tourists. Avoid peak lunch rushes (12-2pm) unless you're in for the buzz. For SEO-savvy travellers searching 'best pubs St Stephen's Green Dublin', this is your top pick, timeless, traditional, and utterly unmissable.
With over 250 years of stories etched into its walls, The Stag's Head embodies Dublin's pub soul. Whether you're toasting with mates or savouring solo reflection amid the chatter, it's where green-clad park-goers end their day. Don't miss the upstairs lounge for a quieter pint overlooking the frenzy below.