Friendship on Tap: Unwinding at the pub with your pals

There’s nothing quite like gathering three of your mates together and heading out for a meal in Ireland, known for its rich culinary history and warm hospitality. Imagine the surroundings of the bustling city of Dublin, and ducking into a local gastropub or eatery that entices you with its aroma of traditional Irish fare. First Table has compiled this list of five Dublin hotspots that echo the character of Ireland itself- wholesome, rustic, and deeply satisfying.

The Green Room

Out to impress and a bit lux, The Green Room has diners flocking for their delicious suppers and live entertainment. Irish at heart, you won’t miss out on any televised sports with a corner equipped with screens, perfectly positioned tables, and decor to match. Pub classics with a twist is what The Green Room is known for, with the Green Room Burger with plenty of premium Glubeen cheese and lashings of Ballmaloe relish or the roasted portobello burger with goat's cheese and sun-dried tomatoes. With plenty of drinks also on offer, there's plenty to keep you at The Green Room until past your bedtime!

J.T. Pim's 

Named after a cherished family ancestor, J.T. Pim's carries a legacy of hospitality and is more than just a pub. It boasts of local culture, a great spot for friends and family and anyone looking to unwind. The menu consists of classic Irish cuisine with a modern twist. Diners can expect pub classics like fish and chips and bangers and mash, or try the chicken with smashes avocado and tomato salsa for something different. The bar also offers everyone's favourites from craft beers, cocktails, wines and your favourite pint of Guinness. 

Taphouse

A bougie bar and kitchen, Taphouse prides itself on optimistic plates paired with some of the most coveted beer in town. The menu is designed to be enjoyed with a ice-cold pint. Ribeye steaks and Irish beef sirloins are served with your choice of sides or choose from juicy burgers with the likes of buttermilk chicken, Irish beef or vegan bacon. For drinks, dozens of taps are at your disposal to choose from with rotating specials to go with each season. 

Zampas

Bridging the divide between the two iconic cities with the bold flavours of Peru, Zampas is Peruvian food served with a soft spot for the craic. Ready to be treated like royalty? Whisking diners back to the dining halls of the 20th century with low and cosy ceilings, the restaurant is elegant and spectacular. The food might be Peruvian, but the ingredients are 100% Irish. Only sustainable and quality food is served here, with the likes of chimichurri Irish chicken wings, locally caught fish ceviche or move on to the mains that include Irish spring rump, ribeye, and pork belly. Indulge in some cocktails and enjoy the vibe of good food and live music.

1900 Bar and Restaurant

French, European and Irish cuisine collide in this relaxed eatery. With an opulent interior that gives a sultry feel with mirror-covered walls and a grand piano, the glistening light from the chandeliers keeps it friendly. The menu showcases the best of European cooking with the likes of pan-roasted haddock and tiger prawns served on creamy delightful tagliatelle pasta and Irish grass-fed steaks that are aged for 28 days. With top-quality wines and cocktails on offer, a night at 1900 is a night to remember.

From cosy pubs serving traditional Irish fare to restaurants showcasing innovative and sustainable options, these hotspots are where you could toast with a pint of Guinness or embrace the city of Dublin’s vibrant cuisine.