
Shot by a City Insiders curator.
37 Dawson Street isn't your typical Dublin pub—it's a four-roomed drink emporium where nothing is quite what it seems. Step into this two-floor venue and you'll find vintage paintings, quirky decor, and an atmosphere that shifts from afternoon coffee to late-night dance floor depending on when you arrive. They're the reigning Late Bar of the Year (2023-2025), and you can taste why: think whiskey tastings, cocktail masterclasses, and wine flights in spaces that feel like stepping into someone's eccentric collector's den.
A Four-Roomed Drink Emporium Where Nothing Is What It Seems
37 Dawson Street has carved out a genuinely unique niche in Dublin's bar scene. What starts as a daytime coffee spot transforms into a late-night powerhouse, and the four distinct bar spaces mean you can find your perfect vibe—whether you're hunting for a quiet corner to sip whiskey by the baby grand piano or hitting the dancefloor with friends. The staff, particularly Adam according to recent reviews, clearly know their craft and aren't afraid to go the extra mile even for off-menu requests.
The decor is where this place really shines. Every room feels curated with vintage paintings, eclectic artifacts, and those now-iconic gold gorillas that have become part of the venue's lore. It's the kind of place where you'll find yourself lingering longer than planned, drawn from one bar to another to see what's hiding around the corner. The whiskey tasting experience is legitimately impressive for a Dublin venue, and the cocktail masterclasses are worth booking if you want to learn your way around a shaker.
It's not perfect—the crowds can get loud and chaotic in the evenings, and if you're looking for a quiet dinner spot, this isn't it. But for what they do, they do it exceptionally well. The Late Bar of the Year awards aren't just marketing fluff; you can feel the energy and attention to detail when you're there.