"character is spades" Top 5 Page for this destination Traditional Pubs Tip by sourbugger

'The international bar' is something of an institution in Dublin. And by that I don't mean it is a place they put you in if you are 'nuts'.

The bar stands imposingly on Wicklow street, Dublin 2, but the insides feel full even if there are only half a dozen people in the place. It's authenically Irish as you are going to get with a collection of pub furniture and nic-nacs that any Irish-themed pub would kill for. The difference is that these bits and pieces have been built up over the years in an ad-hoc way rather than being bought in a job-lot at an auction by a so-called interior designer.

Between the mirrors, tiles and dark wood it is a very traditional drinking hole where conversation should rule. Thankfully that conversation is created by a mix of people from all walks of like with just a sprinkiling of tourists that means the place actually lives up to its' name.

The international bar has had a healthy policy of diversification in the past few years (like the best farms eh ?) so a number of other thriving operations are in operation apart from the 'core business' of flogging vast amounts of the black stuff.
There is a theatre space upstairs that mounts everything from highbrow shakespere to wierdo fringe rubbish. The downstairs cellar hosts a regular club that is very well regarded. i believe it was founded by Ardal O'Hanlon who is best known for his 'Father Dougal' character in the Father Ted T.V comedy series.

It is also the base for the '1916 rebel walking tour'. I've not taken the tour myself, but I believe it has had a series of excellent reviews.

Dress Code: clothes

Address: wicklow st
Directions: temple bar
Theme: Other