Although nothing beats a good old pint of Guinness at your favourite pub, sometimes a special plan is not only much sought-after, but also necessary. Anyone will tell you that Dublin is best known for its vibrant gastronomy and literary scene, which is reflected in its countless restaurants, pubs, libraries and bookshops. And all that’s true. But there’s just something special about having a drink with a friend after a long day’s work, while taking in the views of the beautiful city. So, why not reach new heights at Dublin’s best rooftop bars?
Whether you opt for a fancy tipple or a quick lunch, these rooftop bars are the definition of indulgence and relaxation, no matter the weather. As the cool breeze caresses your face and you marvel at the cityscape, you can let go of your worries and kick back at some of the most exquisite locations in Dublin.
1. Fitzsimons Roof Garden
Situated in the heart of Temple Bar, Fitzsimons is a huge venue, with five floors consisting of bars, a club and a roof garden. Decked out with colourful benches and its own bar, the Roof Garden has sun-tastic views of the crowded neighbourhood and cobbled streets.
Whether you want to unwind with your favourite pint or kick back with a cocktail in hand, Fitzsimons has got you covered with its long drinks menu. And if you feel like sharing food with your friends, the Roof Garden menu has loads of options, from pizza to mezze. It’s the sea-sun to get a tan, but just in case it rains, it has a retractable roof, so there’s no need to end the fun.
🍹 21 – 22 Wellington Quay, Temple Bar, Dublin 2
2. Winter Garden at Fade St Social
Fade St Social is owned by celebrity chef Dylan Mcgrath, so you already know there’s going to be meticulously plated food and inventive flavour profiles on its food menu. The Winter Garden is the restaurant’s spacious outdoor patio that is perfect for celebrations of special occasions. Their cocktail menu is inspired by the eccentric characters of Dublin, who enriched the Dublin streets and bars of the last century, like Dolly’s Fizz, named after the queen of Bolton Street. If you want to enjoy a late-night cocktail and take in the buzzing night sky, while listening to funky tunes at a relaxed setting, Winter Garden has you covered.
🍹 6 Fade Street, Dublin 2
3. Sophie’s Rooftop
Perched atop The Dean Hotel, stands the elegant Sophie’s Rooftop. The sky’s the limit at Sophie’s! The bar has a casual atmosphere and an incredible 360-degree view of Dublin. With views like no other, it’s the ideal spot to grab an afterwork drink, hang out with friends and snap a few photos for your Instagram account while at it. If you want to grab a quick bite, at Sophie’s you can order food from their New York-Italian-Irish menu any time of the day. Best of all, it’s always open, whatever the weather.
🍹 33 Harcourt Street, Dublin 2
4. Ryleigh’s Rooftop Steakhouse
Devouring a nice piece of steak, while taking in the views of stunning Dublin? Sign me up!
Located on the sixth floor of The Mayson, Ryleigh’s Rooftop is not your typical steakhouse. Boasting a panoramic view of the Dublin Mountains and the River Liffey, and featuring an open kitchen to get a piece of the action, there’s never a dull moment at Ryleigh’s. It’s furnished with comfy leather clad booths and gold bar accents, which emanates a feeling of comfort and tranquillity.
Don’t be frightened by its name, because Ryleigh’s has plenty of options that accommodate different diets. From succulent steaks and delicate seafood to delicious pasta and fresh salads, choose the dishes that best suit your tastebuds and wash them all down with thirst-quenching cocktails, like the sweet and nutty Intermission, or the cognacky Alchemist Sidecar.
🍹 81/82 North Wall Quay, Dublin 1
5. The Marker’s Rooftop Bar
If you want to live your best lux life, and want an elegant plan to share with your friends or a date, The Marker’s rooftop bar is the place to be. Its wine list can be a bit pricey, but the 360-degree views that extend to the mountains on one side and the Irish Sea on the other, are priceless. Located on Grand Canal Square, it’s open Thursdays through Saturdays. Their carefully curated cocktails are refreshing and delicious, and you can always ask for your beverage of choice if you don’t see it on the menu.
Alcohol is not everyone’s cup of tea, so if you’re looking for an alcohol-free plan, the rooftop bar is also a well-liked destination for a little morning yoga or workout. After all, there’s nothing like watching the sunrise as you revitalise your body and mind. It’s not everyday that opportunities like this fall from the sky!
🍹 Grand Canal Square, Docklands, Dublin 2