Authentic Pubs in Temple Bar That Locals Actually Love
Let’s be honest — Temple Bar isn’t always known for authenticity. With loud crowds, overpriced pints, and tourist-only menus, it can feel more like a theme park than a proper Dublin pub crawl. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t a few gems still holding it down with real atmosphere, great beer, and a crowd that includes actual Dubliners.
If you're looking for a proper pint, traditional Irish food, and live music without the clichés, here’s what to know — and why Porterhouse Temple Bar should be your first stop.
Why Temple Bar Gets a Bad Rap — and What’s Still Worth Seeing
Temple Bar has a reputation, and not always a good one. It’s loud. It’s busy. And yes, some pubs are cashing in on the tourist trail with €9 pints and prefab “authentic” vibes. But if you know where to go, you’ll find spots that are still pouring proper pints, playing genuine music, and serving food locals would actually eat.
Porterhouse is one of those spots — and it’s been doing it since before Temple Bar got trendy.
What Locals Look for in a Dublin Pub
Locals don’t need gimmicks. What they want is simple:
A solid pint (ideally a nice craft beer or well-poured Guinness)
Fair prices
Food sourced locally and made fresh
A bit of personality: think wood beams, good chats, and music that makes you stay for one more
You’ll find all of that (and more) at Porterhouse.
A Few Other (Real) Pubs Locals Like
Tapped (Nassau Street) – 50 taps, craft-heavy lineup, and DJs on the weekends
Palace Bar (Fleet Street) – Victorian pub with serious whiskey heritage and old-school charm
Caribou (Stephen Street Lower) – intimate, stylish, and always rotating its Irish craft taps
Kehoes (South Anne Street) – multi-level, wood-panelled pub known for its old-world charm and post-work pints
(But really, start with Porterhouse.)
Final Tip: Early or Late, You’re Sorted
Whether you’re out for a quiet early pint and some food or rolling in for live music and a busy crowd, Porterhouse works either way. It’s walk-in friendly, fairly priced, and refreshingly unpretentious — all in the heart of Temple Bar.
Skip the overpriced circus. Go where the pints are poured with care and the music’s played for the joy of it.
Sláinte!