Drogheda

๐Ÿบ

Pubs and Bars

Traditional and modern venues offering drinks, pub food, and live entertainment.

Sections

Popular Pubs and Bars in Drogheda

  1. The Mariner

    • Overview: A stylish and modern pub located in the heart of Drogheda. Known for its warm atmosphere and excellent food.
    • Specialties: Craft beers, cocktails, and a menu featuring Irish classics like fish and chips and hearty stews.
    • Price Range: โ‚ฌ10โ€“โ‚ฌ20 for meals; โ‚ฌ5โ€“โ‚ฌ7 for drinks.
    • Highlights: Live music on weekends and a great spot for casual dining.

  2. Clarkes Bar

    • Overview: A traditional Irish pub with a rich history and a loyal local following.
    • Specialties: Guinness on tap, Irish whiskeys, and a selection of local ales.
    • Price Range: โ‚ฌ5โ€“โ‚ฌ6 for drinks.
    • Highlights: Known for its friendly staff and authentic Irish pub atmosphere.

  3. McPhails Bar

    • Overview: A lively venue popular for its live music and sports screenings.
    • Specialties: A wide range of beers, ciders, and spirits.
    • Price Range: โ‚ฌ5โ€“โ‚ฌ7 for drinks.
    • Highlights: Great for a night out with friends, especially if you enjoy live bands or watching sports.

  4. The Cross

    • Overview: A cozy, family-run pub with a welcoming vibe.
    • Specialties: Traditional Irish drinks like Guinness and Jameson, as well as hearty pub grub.
    • Price Range: โ‚ฌ10โ€“โ‚ฌ15 for meals; โ‚ฌ5โ€“โ‚ฌ6 for drinks.
    • Highlights: A quieter spot for those looking to relax and chat with locals.

  5. The Grey Goose

    • Overview: A trendy bar with a modern twist, offering a mix of classic and contemporary drinks.
    • Specialties: Creative cocktails, craft beers, and a tapas-style menu.
    • Price Range: โ‚ฌ8โ€“โ‚ฌ12 for cocktails; โ‚ฌ15โ€“โ‚ฌ25 for food.
    • Highlights: Perfect for a more upscale experience or a date night.

  6. Sarsfields Bar

    • Overview: A quintessential Irish pub with a focus on community and tradition.
    • Specialties: Guinness, Irish whiskeys, and hearty pub food.
    • Price Range: โ‚ฌ5โ€“โ‚ฌ6 for drinks; โ‚ฌ10โ€“โ‚ฌ15 for meals.
    • Highlights: A great place to experience the local culture and meet Drogheda residents.

Types of Food and Drinks Offered

  • Drinks:

    • Beers: Guinness is a staple, but you'll also find a variety of Irish and international lagers, ales, and stouts.
    • Whiskeys: Irish whiskeys like Jameson, Bushmills, and Redbreast are widely available.
    • Cocktails: Some bars, like The Grey Goose, offer creative cocktails alongside the classics.
    • Non-Alcoholic Options: Most pubs offer soft drinks, tea, and coffee for non-drinkers.

  • Food:

    • Traditional Irish dishes like beef and Guinness stew, fish and chips, and shepherdโ€™s pie are common.
    • Many pubs also serve lighter fare, such as sandwiches, soups, and salads.
    • Some venues, like The Mariner, offer more diverse menus with international influences.

Price Ranges

  • Drinks:

    • A pint of beer or cider typically costs โ‚ฌ5โ€“โ‚ฌ6.
    • Cocktails range from โ‚ฌ8โ€“โ‚ฌ12.
    • Irish whiskeys are usually โ‚ฌ5โ€“โ‚ฌ8 per glass, depending on the brand.

  • Food:

    • Pub meals range from โ‚ฌ10โ€“โ‚ฌ20, with more upscale options costing โ‚ฌ20โ€“โ‚ฌ30.

Local Customs and Etiquette

  1. Ordering at the Bar: In most Irish pubs, you order and pay for your drinks at the bar. Table service is less common unless you're in a more restaurant-style venue.
  2. Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. Leaving โ‚ฌ1โ€“โ‚ฌ2 per drink or 10% of the bill for food is customary.
  3. Rounds: If you're with a group, it's common to buy drinks in "rounds." Each person takes a turn buying drinks for the group.
  4. Live Music: Many pubs feature live traditional Irish music, especially on weekends. It's polite to listen and enjoy the performance.
  5. Closing Time: Most pubs close around 11:30 PM on weekdays and 12:30 AM on weekends. Some bars may have later licenses, but it's best to check in advance.

Opening Hours

  • Weekdays: Typically open from 12:00 PM to 11:30 PM.
  • Weekends: Open from 12:00 PM to 12:30 AM or later.
  • Sunday: Many pubs open later in the afternoon, around 2:00 PM, and close earlier than on other days.

Unique Considerations

  1. Age Restrictions: The legal drinking age in Ireland is 18. Be prepared to show ID if you're asked.
  2. Smoking: Smoking is not allowed inside pubs, but most have designated outdoor smoking areas.
  3. Dress Code: Most pubs are casual, but some bars may have a smart-casual dress code, especially in the evenings.
  4. Peak Times: Pubs can get crowded on Friday and Saturday nights, so arrive early if you want a good seat.
  5. Meeting Locals: Irish pubs are social hubs, and locals are generally friendly and open to conversation. Donโ€™t hesitate to strike up a chat at the bar.

Final Tips

  • If you're visiting during a major event or festival, such as the Drogheda Arts Festival or Fleadh Cheoil (a traditional Irish music festival), pubs will be especially lively and may have extended hours.
  • Always drink responsibly and be mindful of your surroundings, especially if you're unfamiliar with the area.
  • If you're unsure where to go, ask locals for recommendationsโ€”they'll often point you to hidden gems.

Enjoy your time in Drogheda, and make the most of its rich pub culture! Slรกinte! (Cheers!)