Fancy a pint of Guinness? Maybe some live music? Or a classic Irish meal? These Irish pubs in Melbourne have everything you need!
Guinness lovers, you won’t need a shamrock to feel lucky. Although Melbourne may be a long way from Ireland, it is home to plenty of traditional Irish pubs where pints of Guinness and authentic Irish meals are on offer.
So if you’re searching for that famed homely atmosphere, traditional Irish cooking, raucous live music nights or just a friendly pubs for you and your mates, there’s an Irish pub in Melbourne for you.
Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or not, now has never been more of a better time to visit one of these traditional institutions. So read on through and be sure to grab a Guinness at one of Melbourne’s best Irish pubs in 2024!
Photographed by Marc Braner. Image via Shutterstock.
Bridie O'Reilly's
Fancy a pint? Maybe traditional Irish restaurant meals? How about trivia nights? Or a dog friendly beer garden? Bridie O’Reilly’s serves up all of this and more. Located in South Yarra on Chapel Street, Bridie O’Reilly’s is more of an institution rather than your typical Irish pub in Melbourne. With stained glass, wooden bars, a fireplace and plenty of TV’s to watch the latest game on, Bridie’s is famed for their expansive menu including traditional Irish dishes amongst many other classic pub meals. They also serve up the best Guinness in town too!
Photographed by Anna Encio from Anna K Photography. Image supplied.
The Drunken Poet
Located a skip and step away from Queen Victoria Market, The Drunken Poet is a lyrical adventure through Irish culture and cooking. This cosy authentic Irish pub lets you pull up a bar stool and enjoy a charming night of relaxing drinks with friends and co-workers. True to its name, portraits of famous Irish writers and poets dote the walls while enjoying a pint or three. The Drunken Poet is also one of Melbourne’s most unique live music venues, hosting local artists six nights a week, including traditional Irish music events.
Photographed by Jared Burris. Image via Unsplash.
The Irish Times Pub
Described as a piece of Ireland in Melbourne, The Irish Times Pub offers Melburnians a taste of genuine Irish style. Absorb the unique atmosphere with their traditional dark wood interiors, a cosy fireplace, and beautiful stain glassed windows. So grab a pint of Guinness at The Irish Times Pub, one of the best traditional Irish pubs in Melbourne you must visit in 2024.
Photographed by Phillip Glickman. Image via Unsplash.
The Last Jar
If you’re searching for one of the best Irish pubs in Melbourne, we must introduce you to The Last Jar. Hanging off Elizabeth Street, The Last Jar is best described as an Irish oasis that’s traditional, warm, rustic and serves some of the best homemade butter in town. Open from Wednesday to Sunday, here you’ll find traditional Irish music nights, stellar service and a happy hour from 4pm – 7pm. Whilst you’re here be sure to try the Spice Bag, Beef & Guinness Pie and the Breaded Brie!
Photographed by Marc Braner. Image via Shutterstock.
P.J. O'Brien's
Located in Southbank, P.J. O’Brien’s is considered as one of the most famous Irish pubs in Melbourne. This old-fashioned watering hole has all of the highlights of a traditional Irish pub: Guinness on tap, classic Irish food and, most importantly, live music. Appease your appetite with their specials including freshly shucked oysters and a $30 Sunday Roast. Pulling in crowds every week regardless if St. Patrick’s Day is coming up or not, P.J. O’Brien’s is always our go-to for a pint and an overall great time.
Enjoy a meal and some music at these 5 Best Live Music Restaurants in Melbourne. For more classic pub fare, check out this guide to the Best Beer Gardens around Australia.
