It’s Christmas party season, the planning of work parties is well underway and venues all over Dublin are filling up. But it’s not just about work parties, many friends who might not have met up as much as they’d have liked will be booking in a group meet up with pals as December rolls around.
We’ve made this list if you’re looking for a place for a small, maybe less official Christmas party where a group of old friends can gather and enjoy themselves.
These places are also perfect if you’ve a smaller work group or your real work friends want a Christmas party away from the corporate one where you have to face your boss or that colleague no one wants to work with.
We’ve put together some of the best options around the city, not all are overly Christmassy, but they are all great for a fun night out.
Fidelity Bar, Smithfield
A newish addition to the area, if two years still counts as new, and one that is making an impact, located where the much loved Dice bar closed in recent times.
Fidelity is a trendy bar which excels in offering craft drinks with no sign of your usual beers like Heineken, Moretti or the likes, instead you’ll be drinking lagers like Clearest Echoes(a really nice beer) or something more adventurous like their 10% stout.
All your favourite cocktails are mixed here at the very stylish bar, with some having a Fidelity twist to them, and there’s also a wine menu with plenty of options.
Food is served and a DJ plays most nights as the weekend approaches, so get yourself a table or little booth here and have a great night with friends.
Closing times: Closes at midnight Monday to Thursday. 1am closing time Friday-Sunday.
The Bar with No Name, Fade Street
A popular bar that’s ideal if you and pals are looking to have a bit of a dance and drink into the early hours of the morning, with No Name Bar operating until 2:30am at on Friday and Saturday.
Located right in the centre of the city, it’s a pub that excels in cocktails with something for everyone on their extensive menu.
With dark, moody vibes inside, the venue is suitable whether you just want to book a table and sit around, catching up with friends or if you are hoping for a bit of a bop around, it can cater for whatever mood you’re in.
Pints wise, it has the regular line-up but also a few different more craft options if you are more adventurous in your drinking.
Closing times: 11:30pm Monday to Wednesday. 1am Thursday. 2:30am Friday and Saturday. 11pm Sunday.
The Ferryman, Sir John Rogerson’s Quay
Head down along the southside of The Liffey and you’ll come across a beautiful locally run pub called The Ferryman, while well-known by those who work or live in the area, it’s often a spot many wouldn’t think about as they’re rarely in the area, but this is ideal for a Christmas meet-up.
This is one of those we’d put on the list as a pub to properly catch-up with your pals, they do a great pint of stout and have a wide variety of lagers, ales and IPAs on draught as well as plenty of spirit and wine options.
Inside is much bigger than you’d expect with seating on multiple floors and well-spaced out so you don’t feel you’re on top of other groups and have to mind what you’re saying.
A highly-recommended pub and one you should definitely consider.
Closing times: 11:30pm Monday to Thursday. 12:30am Friday and Saturday. 11pm Sunday.
The Porterhouse, Temple Bar
When we are leading you towards Temple Bar we have to warn that the price is a bit steeper than some other areas of the city, but it can be for good reason at times with some quality establishments to visit.
One such spot when thinking of a meet-up with a group of pals is The Porterhouse. This is maybe particularly relevant for those in a group who all love trying new beers and pints.
In here, where you can sit across multiple floors so you should be able to find a seat, you can try a range of locally-brewed lagers, stouts, ales and more from an extensive menu that’s always being updated.
You can also grab some pub food here, so if you’re meeting up after work you needn’t go hungry before you crack into a few drinks.
READ MORE: 12 pubs of Christmas rules – funny and difficult ways to do your pub crawl
Closing times: 12:30am Monday to Wednesday. 1am Thursday. 1:30am Friday. 2am Saturday. 11:30pm Sunday.
Doyle’s Bar, College Street
Just across the road from Trinity College, Doyles Bar on College Street is an ideal spot for a festive gathering with friends. This cozy pub exudes warmth with its dark wooden interiors, vintage posters, and classic Irish memorabilia, wrapping you in a nostalgic charm.
The soft, dim lighting creates a perfect ambiance for unwinding and enjoying good company. With its spacious layout and lively buzz nearly every night of the week, Doyles is the go-to place for those seeking a vibrant, atmospheric setting for their Christmas meet-ups.
They offer food and your average line-up of pints on draught here, and given its central location, it’s a nice, handy spot for people to get to.
Closing times: Sunday and Monday midnight. Tuesday to Thursday 1:30am. Friday and Saturday 2:30am.
The Bleeding Horse, Camden Street
The Bleeding Horse on Dublin’s Camden Street is a popular spot throughout the year, especially during the Christmas season, drawing in work parties and groups of friends celebrating the festivities. With ample space, it comfortably accommodates small gatherings, though it fills up quickly on busier evenings, creating a lively and inviting atmosphere.
Enjoying a drink while gazing out at the vibrant scenes of Camden Street is a perfect way to spend a cozy winter evening here.
They have a lovely food menu and if your group is the sport-watching kind, there are plenty of televisions so you’ll be able to drink, eat and watch.
Closing times: Midnight Sunday to Wednesday. 1am Thursday. 2:30am Friday and Saturday.
The Back Page, Phibsboro
The Back Page in Phibsboro is an excellent choice for a small Christmas gathering with friends. This lively pub is known for its warm, eclectic atmosphere, perfect for festive get-togethers. It offers plenty of space to accommodate groups, with a mix of cozy seating areas and larger communal tables that suit parties of various sizes.
Decorated with quirky memorabilia and games, The Back Page creates a unique, fun environment, ensuring an enjoyable and relaxed evening. With a menu featuring hearty dishes and a selection of craft beers and seasonal drinks, it’s easy to settle in and celebrate the holidays.
The pub’s spirited yet laid-back vibe, combined with views of bustling Phibsboro, makes it an inviting spot for a memorable Christmas night out.
This is before we even mention the pizza, which might be some of the best in Dublin when it comes to pubs.
READ MORE: 9 of the best pubs in Dublin to try in winter 2024 – cosy bars and a new favourite
Closing times: 11:30pm Monday to Thursday and on Sunday. Midnight on Friday and Saturday.
Rody Bolands, Rathmines
Rody Bolands in Rathmines is an ideal spot for a small Christmas gathering with friends, offering a blend of traditional charm and lively atmosphere. Step inside, and you’ll be welcomed by its spacious, warm environment, perfect for accommodating groups. The picturesque wooden-beamed interior adds a rustic touch, creating a cozy backdrop for festive meet-ups.
Renowned for its well-poured pints and a food menu that surpasses typical pub fare, Rody Bolands delivers quality dishes that enhance the experience.
On colder evenings, the fireplace provides a snug, inviting setting, while the numerous TVs ensure you don’t miss any matches. Plus, if you’re looking for some interactive fun, their weekly pub quiz on Thursday nights adds an extra element of entertainment.
Closing times: Midnight Monday to Thursday. 1am Friday and Saturday. 11:30pm Sunday.
Caribou, Stephen Street Lower
For a cozy Christmas gathering with friends, Caribou in Dublin makes a delightful option. Situated near St. Stephen’s Green and the Drury Court Hotel, Caribou offers a polished yet relaxed atmosphere that balances modernity with warmth.
It boasts a well-crafted drink selection, including standout cocktails like the spicy margarita and a strong showing of craft beers—ideal for friends who appreciate quality beverages.
The venue provides a mix of seating areas perfect for groups, featuring a chic layout that lends itself well to conversation and comfort. It’s known for its friendly staff and a welcoming vibe that keeps patrons coming back. Whether you’re stopping in for post-work drinks or a festive evening out, Caribou’s vibrant yet laid-back scene makes it an excellent pick.
Closing times: Midnight Sunday to Thursday. 1am Friday and Saturday.
The Irish Pub Guide 
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