A first date can be anxiety-inducing for so many reasons, what should you wear, what are you going to talk about, what shouldn’t you talk about and so much more – so the last thing you need is to be stressing over where to go.
Dublin is full of pubs and restaurants so the amount of options can be a bit overwhelming – so we’ve compiled a list of some great pubs if you’re about to head on a date and can’t decide.
We’ve picked pubs that will suit all types of people and interests, if you think other spots should be included, let us know in the comments.
P Macs – Stephen’s Street Lower
Nice and central in the city, P Macs is a candle-lit bar which sets a perfect first date ambience where you can chat freely without music that’s too loud and be guaranteed a crowd so you don’t feel awkward.
They have a really wide range of drinks, have some quality pub food if you’re feeling peckish and if it’s a nice day you can sit out the front in their small area.
It’s definitely up there as one of the best first date places in the city.
Vintage Cocktail Club – Temple Bar
Set over three candle-lit floors, you won’t be alone if you decide to head on a first date here as it’s one of the more well-known cocktail bars.
With a lovely outdoor seating area for summer time and a suitable interior to get to know someone over a few vintage cocktails – there’s few better options when looking to break to ice.
Pygmalion – South William Street
Located in the vibrant South William Street area, Pygmalion is great for cocktail deals and a more chill date if you don’t feel like dressing up too much and sipping your drink over candles.
If you’re looking for a bit of food they’ve a fine menu of pizzas at very reasonable prices too – so it’s a great idea for a relaxed date.
Token – Smithfield
Very much a pub/restaurant with a twist, Token is a retro arcade bar where you can play Tetris, pinball and a lot of other games that will bring you back to your childhood.
It’s different to most others on this list in that it’s more activity and fun based rather than simply having a drink and chatting across a table.
You will likely have to book if looking for food but if you just want a drink and to challenge your date on some arcade games, walk right in.
The Blind Pig Speakeasy – Suffolk Street
Looking for nice drinks and a moody setting? How about a top-rated underground cocktail bar located right in Dublin city centre?
The Blind Big Speakeasy is made for first dates, a dark vibey interior sets the perfect tone for a relaxed and romantic meet-up with a new potential partner.
They provide a terrific menu of cocktails to enjoy and have some casual nibbles if you’re feeling hungry.
Jackies – The Liberties
A 90s style bar located in the heart of the Liberties, Jackies is the place to go for a more chill date where you want a few drinks in a nostalgic setting rather than a fancy cocktail bar.
With very friendly staff, 90s inspired cocktails, a good selection of pints and a very bright and upbeat setting, Jackies might be the date spot for you.
Anywhere else?
There’s of course plenty of great pubs around Dublin that we haven’t mentioned that could be perfect for you, we’ve just picked out a few of our favourites to give you some helpful options.
There’s lots of other great cocktail bars in our list here and if pizza and a pint is your kind of date, we’ve also got you covered.
Let us know where your favourite date spot is.
The Irish Pub Guide 
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