Introduction to Dublin’s Cocktail Scene
As the summer sun lights up Dublin’s cobblestone streets and historic spots, the city buzzes with an energy that’s hard to resist. Dublin’s always been famous for its legendary pubs and perfect pints, but lately, there’s been a cool shift towards a booming cocktail scene that’s really shaking things up.
During the warmer months, Dublin’s cocktail bars become the go-to spots for both locals and tourists looking to chill out with a refreshing drink. Whether hidden in quirky alleyways or boasting stunning rooftop views, these bars are mixing up some seriously impressive cocktails. From classic drinks done right to daring new creations, Dublin’s mixologists are on a mission to surprise and delight every taste bud.
So, if you’re in town this summer, grab a seat at one of these buzzing cocktail spots and sip your way through the best of what Dublin has to offer.
Top Summer Cocktails in Dublin
Dublin’s cocktail scene is vibrant and diverse, offering a range of unique and popular summer cocktails. Here are some of the top summer cocktails you can find in Dublin, along with their ingredients and what makes them special:
1. The Dublin Mule
A refreshing twist on the classic Moscow Mule, the Dublin Mule replaces vodka with Irish whiskey, giving it a richer and more complex flavour. The combination of zesty lime and spicy ginger beer makes it a perfect summer drink, enhanced by the aromatic mint garnish.
Ingredients: Irish Whiskey, fresh lime juice, ginger beer, fresh mint leaves and lime wheel for garnish
2. Rhubarb and Custard Sour
This cocktail is a delightful balance of sweet and sour, reminiscent of the classic dessert. The rhubarb syrup adds a tart freshness, while the custard bitters provide a creamy, nostalgic flavor. It’s a visually stunning drink with its pale pink hue and frothy top.
Ingredients: gin, rhubarb syrup, lemon juice, egg white (optional for frothiness), custard bitters and rhubarb stick or cinnamon for garnish
3. Guinness Espresso Martini
Combining Dublin’s iconic stout with the classic espresso martini, this cocktail offers a unique, creamy twist with a hint of bitterness from the Guinness. It’s a perfect pick-me-up for summer evenings, blending the smoothness of coffee liqueur with the rich flavor of stout.
Ingredients: Irish vodka, coffee liqueur, freshly brewed espresso, Guinness stout and coffee beans for garnish
4. The Green Lady
This vibrant green cocktail combines the herbal notes of Green Chartreuse with the crispness of Irish gin. Fresh lime juice and basil leaves add a refreshing zest, making it a sophisticated and unique choice for summer.
Ingredients: Irish gin, green chartreuse, fresh lime juice, simple syrup, basil leaves and lime twist for garnish
5. Berry Bramble
The Berry Bramble is a fruity and visually striking cocktail. The tartness of fresh lemon juice is balanced by the sweetness of Crème de Mûre, while the fresh blackberries add a burst of summer flavor. It’s a great choice for berry lovers.
Ingredients: Gin, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, crème de mure (blackberry liqueur), fresh blackberries and lemon wheel for garnish
Best Cocktail Bars in Dublin
Here’s a curated list of the top cocktail bars in Dublin City Centre, known for their exceptional offerings, ambiance, and unique qualities that make them a must-visit:
This speakeasy-style bar is hidden beneath the streets of Dublin. The Blind Pig offers a nostalgic nod to the Prohibition era with a contemporary twist. The hidden entrance and secretive atmosphere add to the allure, complemented by dim lighting and vintage décor.
2. 9 below
Located beneath the Hibernian Club, 9 Below is an exclusive, upscale cocktail bar that exudes sophistication. It’s known for its luxurious setting and premium cocktails. The bar features plush seating, elegant interiors, and a refined, intimate atmosphere.
Drury Buildings is a chic, modern bar with a vibrant and artistic interior. It seamlessly blends an industrial aesthetic with colourful, eclectic décor. The bar’s lively and dynamic atmosphere is perfect for socializing, with both indoor and outdoor seating options.
The Cocktail Bar at Fade Street Social is known for its creative and contemporary cocktails, set within a bustling and trendy venue. The bar has a vibrant, modern interior with an open kitchen, adding to the dynamic and lively atmosphere.
5. 777
777 is a vibrant Mexican-themed bar and restaurant, offering a lively atmosphere with a focus on tequila and mezcal-based cocktails. The bar has a colourful, energetic vibe with bold décor and upbeat music, perfect for a fun night out.
Known for its enigmatic approach, The Bar With No Name (often called No Name Bar) is a trendy, relaxed spot that’s popular among locals. The bar features eclectic décor, with mismatched furniture and a laid-back, bohemian feel.
Cocktail-Making Tips from Dublin Bartenders
Summer cocktails are all about refreshing flavors, vibrant colors, and creative presentations. Dublin’s bartenders have mastered the art of crafting the perfect summer drink. Here are some tips and insights from the experts:
- Fresh Ingredients are key
- Seasonal Fruits: Use fresh, locally sourced fruits like strawberries, raspberries, and citrus. These not only enhance the flavor but also add a vibrant color to your cocktail.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like mint, basil, and rosemary can add a refreshing aroma and taste. Muddle them gently to release their oils.
- Balancing Flavours
- Sweet and Sour: Balance is crucial. Use a mix of sweet and sour ingredients to create a harmonious taste. Simple syrup can be combined with lemon or lime juice to achieve this.
- Bitters: Adding a few drops of bitters can enhance the complexity of your cocktail.
- Ice Matters
- Quality Ice: Use clear, clean ice to avoid diluting the drink with unwanted flavors. Ice cubes should be large to keep the drink cold without melting too quickly.
- Crushed Ice: For certain cocktails like Mojitos or Mint Juleps, crushed ice works best as it chills the drink faster and adds a pleasant texture.
- Experiment with spirits
- Gin and Vodka: These are popular choices for summer cocktails due to their light and versatile nature.
- Irish Whiskey: Don’t be afraid to incorporate Irish whiskey for a unique twist. It can add depth and a slight sweetness to your drink.
- Experiment with Spirits
- Gin and Vodka: These are popular choices for summer cocktails due to their light and versatile nature.
- Irish Whiskey: Don’t be afraid to incorporate Irish whiskey for a unique twist. It can add depth and a slight sweetness to your drink.
- Creative Garnishes
- Citrus Twists: Use lemon or lime peels for a zesty aroma.
- Edible Flowers: They not only look beautiful but can also add subtle flavors.
- Dehydrated Fruits: These can add a sophisticated touch and an intense burst of flavor.
6. Presentation is Everything
- Glassware: Choose the right glassware. A highball glass for a refreshing long drink or a martini glass for something more elegant.
- Rim the Glass: Rimming the glass with salt, sugar, or spices can add an extra layer of flavor and enhance the overall experience.
- Layering: Create visually appealing layers by carefully pouring ingredients over the back of a spoon.
Must-Visit Rooftop Bars or Outdoor Terraces
Location: Powerscourt Townhouse, South William Street
The outdoor terrace is perfect for people-watching, enjoying cocktails and often features DJ sets and live music.
2.NoLita
Location: South Great George’s Street
Features a lovely outdoor terrace and a garden area. Offers a fantastic range of cocktails and Italian-inspired dishes
Location: Parnell Street
Offers an intimate rooftop terrace, ideal for enjoying craft cocktails and beers in a unique setting with great music
4. The Rooftop Bar at The Woollen Mills
Location: Ormond Quay
Overlooks the iconic Ha’penny Bridge, providing a scenic backdrop for cocktails
Cocktail Events and Festivals
- Cocktail Masterclass
Their expert instructors will guide you through step-by-step instructions for creating classic cocktails, as well as exciting new variations. So grab your shaker, and get ready to mix up some amazing drinks!
Find out more here.
- The Big Grill Festival
Set in Herbert Park from August 15-18, this festival is a paradise for barbecue and cocktail enthusiasts. In addition to enjoying live-fire cooking and craft beer, attendees can savour expertly crafted cocktails. The festival includes a range of live entertainment, cooking demos, and competitions, making it a must-visit for food and drink lovers
Find out more here.
- Tequila Town Festival
Wigwam is hosting a whole weekend of mini tequila masterclasses, blind cocktail tasting, cocktail making competition, salsa dancing classes, dining experience and much more!
Find out more here.
What to Pair with Your Cocktail
Pairing cocktails with food enhances both the drink and the dining experience. Just like wine pairing, matching cocktails with complementary flavors can elevate the overall enjoyment of the meal. Whether you’re enjoying a classic like the Guinness Espresso Martini or something more adventurous like the Rhubarb and Custard Sour, finding the right food pairing can enhance the flavors and create a harmonious balance on your palate.
Here are some food pairing suggestions for each cocktail mentioned in this article:
- Berry Bramble:
Food – Fresh barriers, cheese platter with mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese.
- The Green Lady:
Food – Smoked salmon canapés, cucumber sandwiches, or a light salad with avocado and greens.
- Rhubarb and Custard Sour:
Food – Lemon tart or citrusy desserts, fruit salad with a hint of mint.
- Dublin Mule
Food – Spicy chicken wings, Irish soda bread with smoked salmon, or a hearty beef stew.
- Guinness Espresso Martini
Food – Chocolate desserts (like chocolate fondant or truffles), Irish cheeses (such as Dubliner or Cashel Blue).
