Guide to Iconic Irish Beer and Drinks
While the craft beer trend hasn't quite taken off in Ireland, Dublin pubs continue to serve the classics. Request a pint, and you'll likely get a Guinness. Besides Guinness, several other notable Irish beers and hot beverages make perfect companions for a rainy day.
Ready to enjoy a drink? Here's your guide to Irish beer and drinks. Remember, if you're ordering at the bar, there's no need to tip the bartender — keep your change.
Guinness
An iconic Irish stout, Guinness Draught, is brewed right in the heart of Dublin. Nicknamed the "milkshake of beers," Guinness is famous for its creamy head and a hint of chocolate flavor. Be patient when ordering; the perfect pour takes time but is well worth the wait. Walk into any Dublin pub, and you'll spot locals savoring the black stuff, always allowing it to settle before their first sip.
Smithwick’s is older — and lighter — than Guinness. Photo: ach10
Alternative Irish stouts: Beamish Stout, Murphy’s Irish Stout
Smithwick’s
Smithwick’s Irish Ale, older than Guinness, is another renowned Irish drink. This smooth ale, dating back to the 14th century, is brewed in Ireland’s oldest operating brewery. As the largest ale producer, Smithwick’s offers a lighter, yet flavorful, alternative to heavier stouts.
Harp Lager
On a sunny day in Dublin, enjoy a Harp Lager at an outdoor pub table. This refreshing lager offers a light contrast to heavier stouts. While it doesn't share the long history of Guinness or Smithwick’s, being around since just 1960, it serves as a delightful Irish alternative to other foreign lagers.
Irish Coffee
On a rainy Dublin day, there's nothing more satisfying than an Irish coffee. A blend of hot coffee, Irish whiskey, and brown sugar, topped with a thick layer of cream, it's designed to warm you on multiple levels. Avoid excessive stirring; simply sip through the cream.
Irish Whiskey Punch (or a Hot Toddy)
Often enjoyed when feeling under the weather, an Irish Whiskey Punch or Hot Toddy blends Irish whiskey, hot water, brown sugar, cloves, and lemon, creating a steaming, soothing drink.
When in Dublin, embrace local offerings. Enjoy Irish beers and whiskey, taste Irish cheese, and don’t miss the smoked salmon and roasted lamb, ideally paired with a pint of Guinness.
Your favorite pour? What do you order at a Dublin pub? Share your favorite Irish beers and drinks in the comments section.
Also in our guide: Planning a trip to Dublin and searching for budget-friendly accommodations? Our editors have curated a list of the best affordable hotels, ranging from hostels to three-star options, all centrally located, clean, and inexpensive. Discover more in our Dublin hotel guide.
