Guinness and live music – you won’t need a shamrock to feel lucky at these classic Irish pubs!
Australia may be a long way away from Ireland, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find a good pint of Guinness and a warm welcome at some of the best Irish pubs down under. Whether you’re looking for a great homely atmosphere, traditional Irish cooking, raucous sports screening, or just a friendly pub for mates, there’s an Irish pub for you in every major city.
Yet with so many great options, we’ll take you on a tour of the 10 best Irish pubs in Australia of 2024. Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or not, it is always the perfect time to get your ‘paddy’ on and visit one of Australia’s many historic, traditional and classic Irish pubs! There may not be a pot of gold at the end, but you’re sure to have a great time.
Sláinte!
The Best Irish Pubs in Sydney:
Photographed by Phillip Glickman. Image via Unsplash.
PJ O'Brien's Irish Pub
Live music, live sports and a lively atmosphere are all staples at PJ O’Brien’s Irish Pub. Right in the heart of Sydney’s CBD, PJ O’Brien’s is an old-fashioned Irish pub, complete with Guinness on tap, classic grub like traditional Irish stew, and regular Irish music gigs Thursday through to Sunday. Embrace a rustic and comfortable interior across their two-storeys, including an open mezzanine and intimate library area, accessorised with wood furnishings and Gaelic-inspired tile work.
Photographed by Dominic Loneragan. Image via Destination NSW.
The Rover
Opening as the Wild Rover before amending for a more domestic monicker, The Rover has spent the past 10 years building up its reputation as one of the best Irish pubs in Sydney. This modern take on a classic Irish whiskey bar has made a home in Sydney’s Surry Hills, with the banter and laughs on expects from a great Irish pub. Exchanging the down-to-earth atmosphere of Irish pubs for a more high-brow, sophisticated approach means a delicious seafood menu, classic cocktails and warm service. So grab a seat at this buzzy Irish bar and watch the night pass you by.
The Best Irish Pubs in Melbourne:
Photographed by Marc Braner. Image via Shutterstock.
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.
The Best Irish Pubs in Adelaide:
Photographed by Ground Picture. Image via Shutterstock.
Brecknock Hotel
When you imagine an classic Irish pub, the first thing that comes to mind is Adelaide’s Brecknock Hotel. Established in one of the most historic precincts of the city, this legendary pub offers patrons a perfect blend of excellent pub staples and welcoming service. If you’re looking for a great place to grab a Guinness with friends, a great night out is promised at Brecknock Hotel! If you enjoy the atmosphere of an authentic old Irish pub, excellent food, and friendly service, you will find it all at the legendary Brecknock Hotel in Adelaide.
Photographed by Damiano Fiore. Image via Unsplash.
Mick O'Shea's Hotel
Described as a ‘traditional Adelaide pub with a contemporary twist,’ Mick O’Shea’s Hotel offers patrons an authentic and cosy Irish pub atmosphere unique to South Australia. This local Adelaide favourite lies just 30 minutes away from Adelaide’s CBD, nestled in the picturesque hills of the Southern Vales. Inside you’ll find high-quality pub food using locally sourced produce like their succulent Angus beef burger. And, with their bustling beer garden, you can soak in the sunshine while drinking a few rounds at Mick O’Shea’s Hotel. One of the best Irish pubs in Australia!
The Best Irish Pubs in Perth:
Photographed by Marc Braner. Image via Shutterstock.
Durty Nelly's Irish Pub
Pouring fresh beers in Perth since 1998, Durty Nelly’s is the definition of a classic Irish pub – something that others live up to. Designed and constructed in Ireland by Irish architects, this rustic pub was made with genuine Irish materials — including the dark wooden benches and table which was then transported to Perth from across the seas. Durty Nelly’s is the perfect place to catch up with friends and family over a cold brew and fresh Beef & Guinness Pie. So grab a stool at one of the best traditional Irish pubs in Perth tonight!
Photographed by Irina Wilhauk. Image via Shutterstock.
JB O’Reilly’s
It’s the attention to detail that makes JB O’Reilly’s stand out. You won’t find a spec of wall that doesn’t have Irish memorabilia, signage, or photographs that capture a homely Irish atmosphere. Located in West Leederville, this Perth Irish pub is the perfect place to enjoy the craic with friends or colleagues. One of the best Irish pubs and restaurants in Perth, you’ll always be welcome at J.B. O’Reilly’s.
The Best Irish Pubs in Brisbane:
Photographed by Marc Braner. Image via Shutterstock.
Gilhooleys
Behind the bar at Gihooleys sits a sign with an old Gaelic phrase “Céad Míle Fáilte” meaning A Hundred Thousand Welcomes. It’s those thousand welcomes that has turned Gilhooleys into one of Brisbane’s most loved Irish pubs since opening in 1994. For a great feed, Gihooleys offers a delicious selection of Irish-Australian pub dishes including tender steaks and flavourful pasta. And after chowing down, quench your thirst with a pint of on-tap Guinness. Enjoy true Irish hospitality with Brisbane’s Gihooleys!
Photographed by BOULENGER Xavier. Image via Shutterstock.
Irish Murphy's
Located in one of the oldest hotel sites in Brisbane, Irish Murphy’s transports you to the streets of Dublin at this exquisite traditional Irish pub. Arguably the biggest Irish pub in Queensland, this Irish watering-hole in Brisbane’s CBD has lavish interior decor with scrumptious meals. And after you’ll filled your stomach, fill your ears with great live music from local artists, taking the stage Monday through Sunday. Spend a night at Brisbane’s most authentic Irish Pub, Irish Murphy’s.
For a good feed and even better beer, you can’t go wrong at these 9 Best Australian Country Pubs. Or, if you prefer leafy green terraces, round up your mates and enjoy the weekend at these 20 Best Beer Gardens around Australia.
