Every night-out starts somewhere and it’s unlikely you’re going to have your first drink in a nightclub or late bar, so you’re probably wondering where should you have your first few drinks before going out-out.
The options in Dublin are of course endless but we’ve picked out some that are convenient if trying to head out in the city centre and a mix between lively and chill.
Let us know if you think any other pubs should make the list.
Rody Bolands – Rathmines
Towards the top of Rathmines, Rody Bolands is an institution at this stage, the wooden interior is the perfect setting to sink a few drinks, get some food into you and work your way into town – or perhaps stay there for the night.
It’s a roomy pub with plenty space, loads of televisions, quality food and a huge selection on tap. It’s perfect to get your first few drinks in before heading into town if that’s your plan.
But also a great spot to spend your entire night, it won’t be short of punters.
Sinnotts – Stephen’s Green
The perfect sports bar – it’s amongst our list of best places to watch a game – and for a group looking to watch some sport, have some food and drink and then head out, this is perfect.
It’s usually thronged when a big game is on but provided you can get some room, it’s the perfect spot to get yourself ready for a big night out.
The Bleeding Horse – Upper Camden Street
Just a stone’s throw from the main night-out area of Camden Street, The Bleeding Horse is a spacious and very popular spot for people just starting off their night out.
The busy pub tends to start filling with people early on the weekends, especially if there’s a match on, but such is the size of the place, you and your friends should be able to grab a table.
Blackbird – Rathmines
Back up Rathmines we go and a bit closer than the aforementioned Rody Bolands is Blackbird, a candle-lit setting with pizzas and a huge selection of pints.
It’s another very popular stopping point for many people before they make their way into the city centre for a late night.
Slattery’s Pub – Capel Street
One of the few pubs in Dublin that’s allowed open as early as 7am with their early license, although generally speaking they open at 9am.
So if you and your friends are on a real rollover, heading just north of the Liffey to Slattery’s on Capel Street is the option for you.
It’s a lovely pub in a very nice part of the city with good craic and nice pints pretty much guaranteed.
Jimmy Rabbittes – Camden Street
By the time you get to Jimmy Rabbittes you’re basically out out but it can be a place to get a few drinks in before you hit somewhere like The Camden or even Coppers.
Inside is a small bar but a huge smoking area stacked with seating and televisions for sports lovers, albeit on a weekend evening you’d be likely to snatch a seat unless you’re nice and early.
Toners – Baggot Street
Baggot Street can be a great place to start your night out and there’s no shortage of spots to go to, Doheny and Nesbitt’s is up there but for this list we’ve opted for Toners.
Home to a great pint of Guinness, an old-fashioned bar inside and a massive outdoor area in the back, Toners is ideal for a few after work on a Friday or on a Saturday afternoon/evening before you set your sights on a big night out.
The Irish Pub Guide 
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