Dublin's Beer Prices: How Much For A Pint?

The price of a pint of beer in Dublin has been a hot topic in 2024, with some pubs in the city centre charging close to €10 for a pint of the black stuff. The average cost of a pint of Guinness in Ireland's capital is now €5.64, up 48 cents compared to November 2022, according to CSO stats. However, there are still plenty of pubs in Dublin where you can get a pint for under a fiver. So, if you're looking to save some cash on your next night out, here's where to go...

The average cost of a pint in Dublin

The price of a pint in Dublin depends on a variety of factors, including the location of the pub, the time of day, and the brand of beer. On average, a pint of Guinness in Dublin costs between €4.50 and €8.95, with prices in the Temple Bar area tending to be the most expensive.

According to a survey conducted by the Irish Independent in March 2023, the average price of a pint of Guinness in Dublin was €6.40. However, prices have continued to rise since then, with some pubs now charging nearly €9 for a pint. The Temple Bar pub in the tourist hotspot of the same name was found to have the priciest pint, at €8.95.

There are still some pubs in Dublin that offer more affordable pints, with a few places selling Guinness for €4.50-€5.00. These include The Auld Triangle on Dorset Street, Downey's Bar in Cabra, Padraig Pearse on Pearse Street, The Lark Inn on Meath Street, and McGowan's in Phibsboro (on Thursdays and Sundays).

It's worth noting that prices can vary depending on the time of day, with some pubs increasing their prices in the evening or after midnight. Additionally, pubs in more touristy areas like Temple Bar tend to be more expensive than those located just a street over.

Overall, while it is still possible to find a pint for under €5 in Dublin, the average cost is closer to €6-€7, and prices continue to rise due to factors such as inflation and increases in the cost of buying beer.

The cheapest pints in Dublin

It's no secret that the cost of a pint in Dublin can be eye-wateringly high, with some pubs charging almost €10 for the pleasure. Luckily, there are still a few gems where you can get a pint for under a fiver. Here's a roundup of some of the cheapest pints in Dublin, so you can enjoy a night out without breaking the bank.

The Auld Triangle, Dorset Street

The Auld Triangle tops the list with a pint of Guinness costing just €4.50. This friendly, intimate city-centre pub will give you a taste of authentic Dublin, with long conversations and friendly staff.

Nanny O'Shea's (Formerly The Berkeley), Mountjoy Street

Another great spot for a €4.50 pint is Nanny O'Shea's. This pub, formerly known as The Berkeley, has a homely atmosphere and is a favourite among locals. They also host customer appreciation nights and welcome new faces, so you're sure to feel right at home.

Inchicore, Dublin

Inchicore offers a unique Dublin experience with a pint costing €4.60 before 5 pm and €5 after. This hidden gem is tucked away on an unassuming residential street, and if you get hungry, you can enjoy some of the best tacos in Dublin from Tacos Lupillo next door.

The Hideout, William Street South

The Hideout is a city-centre pool hall where you can relax and enjoy a game of pool with a pint of Guinness for just €4.90. It's the perfect spot to chill with friends and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

The Clock, Thomas Street

Just missing out on the under-€5 list is The Clock, where a pint will set you back €4.90. It's a great spot to unwind and enjoy a drink without breaking the bank.

The Lark Inn, Meath Street

The Lark Inn is a spacious pub in the heart of Dublin's Liberties, charging a solid €5 for a pint. They recently underwent extensive renovations, and their proximity to the Storehouse means you're likely to get a great-tasting pint.

So, there you have it! With these pubs, you can enjoy a night out in Dublin without spending a fortune. Remember to check out their opening hours, as some pubs in the city have started reducing their opening days due to rising costs.

The most expensive pints in Dublin

While Dublin's pub culture is renowned, the city's pint prices are equally eye-watering. The cost of a pint in Dublin has been steadily rising, with the average cost of a pint of Guinness now sitting at €5.64, up 48 cents from November 2022. However, in some pubs, a pint of Guinness will set you back almost €9. So, where are Dubliners finding these sky-high prices?

Temple Bar

Unsurprisingly, Temple Bar, the tourist hotspot, tops the list for expensive pints. At The Temple Bar pub, a pint of Guinness will cost you €8.95, the priciest in a survey of 100 pubs across Ireland. Just around the corner, at Merchant's Arch, you'll pay €8.10 for a late-night pint. Other Temple Bar establishments like Oliver St John Gogarty's and The Norseman Pub aren't far behind, with pints costing around €7-€8.

Beyond Temple Bar

While Temple Bar is notorious for pricey pints, other areas of Dublin aren't far behind. Café en Seine in Dawson Street will set you back at least €6 for a pint of Guinness. The Clock Bar in Thomas Street and Bridge Tavern Summerhill are also notable mentions, with pints costing €4.90.

The Future of Pint Prices

With rising costs across the board, it's uncertain whether Dublin's pubs will be able to keep prices in check. Publicans blame price hikes on inflation and increases from suppliers like Diageo, which added 12 cents to a pint of Guinness. Some predict that €10 pints will soon be the norm, and with limited options for socialising outside of pubs, Dubliners may have no choice but to accept these steep prices.

Why are Dublin's pints so pricey?

The price of a pint in Dublin depends on a variety of factors, including the location of the pub, the time of day, and the brand of beer. While some pubs in Dublin charge upwards of €10 for a pint, there are still plenty of places where you can find a pint for under €5.

One of the main reasons why pints in Dublin can be pricey is the high cost of alcohol in the city. Alcohol prices in Dublin are significantly higher than the EU average due to factors such as high taxes, overhead costs, and the popularity of drinking in pubs. The price of alcohol in Dublin has also been increasing in recent years due to inflation and the increasing cost of living.

Another factor that contributes to the high price of pints in Dublin is the popularity of drinking in pubs and socialising with friends. Dublin has a strong pub culture, and many people rely on pubs as a place to socialise and connect with others. This high demand for pub experiences can lead to higher prices, as pubs know that people will continue to pay for the social experience they offer.

Additionally, the cost of a pint in Dublin can vary depending on the location of the pub. Pubs in tourist areas, such as Temple Bar, tend to have higher prices than those in more residential neighbourhoods. The atmosphere, amenities, and reputation of a pub can also influence the price of a pint. For example, pubs with live music, sports events, or unique decor may charge more for their drinks.

Furthermore, the brand of beer can also impact the price. Guinness, for example, is a popular choice in Ireland and is often priced higher than other beers. Lagers and stouts may also have different price points, with stouts sometimes being more affordable.

Finally, the time of day and day of the week can also affect the price of a pint in Dublin. Some pubs offer happy hour or midweek specials, with lower prices during certain times or days. Additionally, pubs may charge more for drinks ordered upstairs or in a restaurant setting, as opposed to at the main bar.

Where to find better value

While the price of a pint in Dublin can vary, it is generally expensive, even for locals. The average cost of a pint of Guinness in the city is around €5.64, but this can be much higher in some pubs, particularly those in tourist hotspots like Temple Bar, where a pint can set you back almost €9.

If you're looking for better value for your money, it's best to avoid the Temple Bar area altogether. Just moving one street over can make a big difference in price. Some of the streets popular with locals for a night out include Camden and George's Street, where you're more likely to find pubs with prices that fit the Dublin average.

One of the cheapest pubs in Dublin is the Trinity College Student bar, the Pav, which is based in the old cricket club of the school. On a sunny day, you'll find locals of all ages lined up outside.

For a €5 pint of Guinness, you could try:

• The Auld Triangle on Dorset Street (€4.50)
• Downey's Bar in Cabra (€5)
• Padraig Pearse on Pearse Street (€5)
• The Lark Inn on Meath Street (€5)
• McGowan's in Phibsboro (€5 on Thursdays and Sundays)
• J.T. Pims on George's Street (€5 on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays)

If you don't mind travelling a little further, you can find a €5 pint in Gladstone in Skerries, or head to Waterford, where the Exchange Bar charges €4.50 for a pint of Guinness.

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