The Ultimate Saturday Night Guide

Alas, it is the weekday, and I know that work and Love Island is something we all look forward too. But in the back of our minds, as the days inch closer and closer, we start to fantasize about that one day we can fully relax, indulge in delicious foods, splurge on a cocktail, and most importantly, have fun!

Saturday. The day of pleasure. The night of epic memories. We all have a memorable story that is linked to a Saturday. Whether it is planned, or just happens by chance, the night will always be legendary as long you have the right people around you (my best friends, plus the people I meet throughout the night ALWAYS shape my experiences)!

Dublin is small a city, yet, the number of pubs, cocktail bars, and restaurants never cease to impress. It can be difficult narrowing down your options because the variety really does seem endless. But, I have something in store for you. I present to you, DublinTown’s Saturday Night Guide.

DINNER

The Black Sheep –  Located at 61 Capel Street, The Black Sheep is one of Dublin’s top quality Gastro Pubs, known for its craft beers, good food, and board games!

101 Talbot – Head to 101 Talbot Street, and find yourself in a vivacious atmosphere that serves delicious contemporary food with a Mediterranean twist. 

Platform 61 – this underground restaurant is one of Dublin’s hidden gems that provides the full dining experience. From their intimate environment, to their bold tastes of European cuisine, Platform 61 will not disappoint! 

Govinda’s – This local spot is ideal for vegetarians, vegans, and food lovers who want massive portions at an affordable price! The menu is inspired by European and Indian cuisine, withvibrant flavors that will shock your taste buds.

Ka Shing – Bringing the exotic flavors of China right to the heart of Dublin on 12A Wicklow Street. Ka Shing, another hidden gem of the city will stun you with their quality cuisine, exceptional service, and intricate interior design.

Cocktails

Yamamori Tengu – A hop and skip from the Ha’penny Bridge on 38 Ormond Quay Lower, Yamamori Tengu has its own entrance at the back on Strand Street, which offers a vibrant atmosphere that is perfect for late night drinks. As you walk through the quaint beer garden, and into the Japanese pub, you are guaranteed to vibe with the electronic music and Japanese inspired cocktails. Sake anyone?

Peruke and Periwig – Calling on all cocktail connoisseurs! If you’re looking for an extensive list of fabulous cocktails, then you must head to the vintage three story building on 31 Dawson. The Victorian decor, along with deliciously unique cocktails, really make Peruke and Perwig an ideal spot for your Saturday!

The Living Room – If your Saturday evenings call for some rowdiness and massive beer gardens, then head to the Living Room on Cathal Brugha Street. Don’t be fooled by the name, the space is so large including four different bars with each having its own vibe, plus, within the beer garden you will find Europe’s largest outdoor screen (sports fans, take note!).

Drury Buildings – Craft beers, premium cocktails, with a Berlin exterior, and New York interior. Drury Buildings is well worth a visit, as the skilled mixologists won’t let you down. My first time there, the bartender asked me which liquor I preferred and then created an exceptional cocktail especially for me! Time for some Bartender Roulette.

Opium – This Pan-Asian Fusion restaurant transforms the art of drinking into a full experience. The venue will be sure to impress with its Botanical Garden, Rooftop Terrace, many DJs, four bars and of course, tasty cocktails.

Dancing

The South William – The funky atmosphere of The South William attracts a young crowd who are looking to have some great drinks and good time. From the outside it doesn’t seem like there is a dance floor, but once you’re in, follow the sound of the DJ from the basement floor, and boogie your way down. I came here after an evening at Pygmalion thinking I was going to have an early night…but I ended up dancing at The South William for the rest of the night. Thanks for the memories! 

Panti Bar – Visit the Queen of Dublin and watch her spin the hottest hits from the 21st Century! This extravagant bar is nothing short of lively, and fabulous. With only €7 for a Long Island, Panti Bar should definitely be on your books.

The Globe – Now, this has been one of my favorite go-to bars, with a dance floor on each storey, The Globe has a fun environment that has the right mixture of casual yet rowdy vibes!

The Academy – With a range of different music genres, and live performances, The Academy has been a notorious hangout for music and dance lovers for years. The intimate venue is located on 57 Middle Abbey Street and holds three floors with a different vibe within each floor.

Live Music

The Grand Social – The grand venue located on 35 Liffey Street Lower is the prime location for casual drinks and live music with a group of friends. Hosting musicians, performers, and DJs, The Grand Social offers a chilled atmosphere that’s perfect for a Saturday night.

The Mercantile – Notorious for its live music, drinking, and (salsa) dancing, The Mercantile is one of Dublin’s go to pubs! Located on 28 Dame Street, you can find locals, and visitors within this unique and vibrant venue.

Kehoe’s – Traditional Irish pub that you don’t want to miss! The well-kept bar remains authentic, and quaint, and the relaxed outdoor drinking policy is perfect for the warm weather that we have been having!

Bruxelles – Three bars, live music, and great food and drinks under one roof! This historic bar is another one of Dublin’s gems that you must check out!

Whelan’s – Another of Dublin’s famous pubs with strong Irish roots. Whelan’s is known for its live music venue, affordable drinks, and lively atmosphere that is just right out of the city centre on 25 Wexford Street.

Alcohol Free Events

The National Leprechaun Museum –  A vivid story-telling experience about the ancient culture of Ireland’s mythical otherworld!

Ghost Bus Tour – Good laughs, good fun, and good thrills! The guided night-time Ghost Bus Tour is perfect for friends and family who are looking for a new kind of entertainment and would like to see Dublin from a different perspective!

The International Comedy Club – The International Bar of Dublin is famous for hosting comedy sessions, music, plays, and poetry nights. The 200 year old building maintains the old Victorian style architecture, and the improve comedy acts that date back to the early 1990’s. Add this to your bucket list for a barrel of laughs where “the craic is truly 90!”

National Wax Museum Plus – An enchanting museum that has three floors filled with wax characters, exhibitions, historical figures, and much more! The museum will have you leaving thrilled, and intrigued. This is the ideal spot for some quality family fun!

The Gaiety Theatre – If you’ve been searching for a traditional theatre experience, then grab tickets for a show at the beautifully designed Gaiety Theatre, where you can watch Riverdance whilst in a theatre that’s been filled with history, talent, and art over the decades.