Got that Friday feeling after a long day at work? Hungering after some great tunes and chill vibes? Want to impress your colleagues with your knowledge of the coolest bars in Limerick?
You deserve to relax and unwind with your beverage of choice, and this handy guide will make sure you find the perfect bar for any occasion. Suit up!
1. Every Limerick native knows that at the slightest hint of sunshine, The Locke Bar is the place to be, so much so that “Great day for the Locke!” is the Limerick translation of “Nice weather we’re having.” They’re the proud owners of Limerick’s largest outdoor beer garden, which overlooks the Abbey River and provides great views of the Medieval Quarter, making it the perfect place to cool down on a summer’s day. Their riverside barbeques are not to be missed. In winter, cosy up to the open fires and enjoy some traditional Irish music and dance. Don’t leave without sampling some of their award-winning pub grub. Address: 3 George’s Quay, Limerick
2. Those seeking a modern, funky vibe should head to The Red Hen, whose unique interiors combine industrial style with vintage furnishings to excellent effect. Check out their infinitely interesting assortment of eclectic ornaments and delicate chandeliers while chilling out on the mezzanine with their signature mojito. Don’t forget to drop by their ever-popular flea market to seek out a vintage treasure! Address: 15 Patrick Street, Limerick
3. If vino is your tipple of choice, Limerick’s coolest wine bar The Copper Room should be your first port of call. If your colleagues’ conversation skills are lacking, you’ll find no end of entertainment in your surroundings, as this hidden gem was once the servant quarters of a Georgian house on O’Connell Street. An excellently preserved historic façade combined with a modern twist provides for possibly the most interesting interior décor in Limerick. On top of this are bathrooms so nice you’ll consider sending all of your friends one of the complimentary postcards they so kindly provide. A chill vibe, plush seats, candle-lit ambiance and an atmospheric smoking area top off an effortlessly cool bar that’s a winner year-round. Address: 100 O’Connell Street, Limerick
4. If you’re looking for an intimate corner for deep conversations, Mickey Martin’s is the place for you. Located just off Thomas Street, it attracts people from every walk of life to enjoy a craft beer to a classic rock soundtrack. A photogenic smoking area and interesting installations make for a great hang-out spot.
Address: 1 Augustinian Lane, Limerick
5. The Curragower is probably the most well-known pub in Limerick, and the ideal place to watch the sun go down over our most celebrated landmarks, including King John’s Castle, Limerick City Hall, and of course the eponymous Curragower Falls. Venerable locals mingle with tourists from all over the world over drinks and their award-winning locally-sourced seafood.
Address: Curragower House, Clancy’s Strand, Limerick
6. If you fancy an anything-can-happen kind of evening, head to Costello’s Tavern. Costie’s is always filled with interesting characters, from international exchange students to local Limerick celebrities. Start at the ground floor pub, but if after a few drinks the night is still young, head upstairs to the nightclub to show off your beer-pong skills or sing your heart out to the best rock anthems of every decade.
Address: 4 Dominic Street, Limerick
7. Newly-refurbished Mother Mac’s, ‘the mother of all pubs,’ formerly The Roundhouse, pride themselves on serving unusual craft beers. Their rotational tap allows you to discover a new craft beer every time you visit. It’s the perfect spot to watch the world go by in a friendly, chilled out environment.
Address: 10 High Street, Limerick
8. For the younger crowd, Charlie Chaplin’s is always a good choice. Their wide selection of drinks and designated cocktail bar should have something to suit everyone’s tastes. Spend your evening people-watching the shoppers perusing Cruise’s Street, then head inside when the DJ starts up for a night of dancing to the best club tunes.
Address: 42 Cruise’s Street, Chapel Street, Limerick
9. Music lovers are always drawn to Dolans. Unwind to traditional Irish music in a traditional Irish pub with a Rock’n’Roll twist. Reminisce about concerts past, start a contentious debate about the best act to perform thus far and maybe even score some last-minute tickets to an upcoming gig. If you get peckish, a hot, hearty meal is only an order away.
Address: 4 Dock Road, Limerick
10. If you’re looking for a little bit of everything at once, go to Smyths Bar, where delicious food, a great selection of wine, signature cocktails, craft beer, live music and all the big sports games are at your disposal. If closing time comes and you haven’t had your fill, head next door to d’Icon, Ireland’s top nightclub, where the party can continue until 2.30a.m.
Address: Denmark Street, Limerick
Article by Laura Duhan
Photography by: Tarmo Tuli
Read more from The Limerick Magazine here.