Ireland has managed to gain four mentions in this year’s Top 100 European Pubs; a strict best-of-the-very-best list compiled each year by the European Bar Guide.
Furthermore, all four entries made the top 30, and all garnering an out-of-ten ranking of more than 9. The top 10 was dominated by Belgium with a whopping 6 of the best 10 European pubs being spread across Brussels, Liege, Antwerp and Bruges.
The Irish entries are:
Tig Bhric, Reask, Dingle Peninsula, Co Kerry (Number 28; 9.5/10)
Despite being the lowest ranked of the Irish entries, Tig Bhric – near Dingle – arguably got the best review from the European Bar Guide, with it being lauded as “one of the true wonders of the beer world” and “a true standout”.
The guide likens Tig Bhric to a German ‘gastof’ – or inn – “but with an Irish and personal feel”. Super cosy and comfortable was also mentioned. One down side? “Unfortunately, it closes early evening…though it’s unfortunate it ever closes!”
Grogan’s/Castle Lounge, South William Street, Dublin (Number 24; 9.5/10)
This Dublin institution was ranked high for its “unvarnished and characterful” charm and “exceptional atmosphere”. The guide also made special mention of its standing room only reputation, noting that waiting for a seat is definitely worth the wait.
Dick Mack’s, Dingle, Co Kerry (Number 17; 9.6/10)
Another, Dingle pub, Dick Mack’s was singled out for being “superb, day or night” with the right combination of locals and tourists – although, it being more tourist-heavy during the peak summer months.
There was also special mention for the friendly and fun bar staff.
Gravediggers/Kavanagh’s, Glasnevin, Dublin (Number 14; 9.6/10)
Legendary Glasnevin haunt, John Kavanagh’s or the Gravediggers, given its closeness to the iconic Glasnevin Cemetery (it’s actually built into the walls of the cemetery) scored highest on the list for Irish pubs due to its “brooding and evocative” atmosphere and the Guide’s opinion of it serving the best Guinness in Dublin.
