Plenty of Local Picks and Tourist Watering Holes In Temple Bar

The IFI is Dublin's main independent cinema and features a large, airy space that's perfect to relax and ruminate over a glass of wine or a craft beer. The restaurant and bar attached to this wonderful cinema feature a beer garden at the back behind Meeting House Square which is perfect for summer evenings with a jug of Pimms. If you're looking for a bite to eat and laid back conversation in a beautiful space with plenty of light then this is an ideal bar to steal away a few hours before heading back out into the hustle and bustle of Temple Bar.

This immensely popular Temple Bar pub hits capacity limits early on weekends, so it has a lively crowd both outside and in. If you can make it to the beer garden, it's a sky lit, tree-lined room. Another room is lined with cozy booths, known as snugs, and others are wide open for impromptu dancing. The atmosphere, beer selection and better-than-average food play second fiddle to the variety of thumping music ('80's hits followed by traditional Irish tunes) at this key Temple Bar location. A fun stop if you're looking for crowds and noise. For those looking for a place to stay, the adjoining apartments offer self-catered stays and hostel rooms.

Bison Bar was initially just another annex to the ever expanding Workman's Club but has now managed to cultivate a vibe and clientele of its own. Beginning by offering a dedicated whiskey selection it has now branched out into authentic Texan barbecue food that requires you to arrive hungry. The interior features bar stools adorned with saddles for those who feel sturdy enough after a few drinks to sit legs a-splay. There are usually some great cocktail deals on offer for things like whiskey sours - with over 150 different whiskeys on offer it's fair to say this bar is a whiskey lovers dream.

The Garage Bar in Temple Bar takes a departure from the usual fare of old-style Irish pubs that stream with hen and stag dos. On Essex Street you'll find an open plan bar run out of a disused garage complete with 1950's petrol pumps, car doors and sawdust covered floors. Not only this but the music and drinks deals are a constant draw with well priced pitchers and cocktail deals mixed in with classic music from the 50's, 60's and 70's and R&B and Soul favorites. This is the kind of grungy bar with heart that keeps you coming back for its intimate atmosphere and funky music.

This brewing gem opened the doors of its first branch in 1989 and hasn't looked back since. Sourcing some of the best beers from the continent as well as brewing their own, The Porterhouse now boasts five premises in Dublin, London and New York and their Plain Porter won the gold medal at the world brewing industry's most prestigious award last year. They brew an excellent stout in house, but offer a wide range of ales, lagers and seasonal beers to whet your appetite as well, their Temple Bar branch also features live music seven days a week with traditional music at the weekends.

This is a classic Irish pub in the heart of Dublin's party neighbourhood with the Irish title standing for 'The Quays Bar'. Always bustling with tourists, hen parties and revelers in general, this is a pub that always seems to have something going on inside. Post up here if you're looking for fun, there'll often be live music both inside and out in the central hub of Temple Bar Square. The interior is standard of other classic Irish pubs in the area: cosy with warm lighting glowing in its stained glass windows. If you want a sense of fun and camaraderie, head here.

This newly opened cocktail club might be discreet on the outside but indoors boasts plush seating, kitsch wallpaper and a dazzling array of high class beverages. Book ahead to ensure a reservation and then strap yourself in for some great drinks from a long menu that caters for everyone. With everything from giant bowls of punch to short serves that pack a punch, this is a classy establishment that seeks to impress. Bar bites include delicious cheese boards and tasty charcuterie and dinner plates are served until 11pm for those looking to dine at a more European hour. A great oasis of style in Temple Bar.

If you're looking for a big beer garden and the classic flagstone flooring and a wealth of tourism knowledge then The Temple Bar is for you. Located right in the centre of its namesake, The Temple Bar has all the calling cards of an old Irish pub and has been playing host to tourists for over 160 years. Whiskey lovers will enjoy the 450 varieties of the spirit on offer and music lovers will be pleased to know there are trad music sessions are a daily occurrence. Food including sandwiches and oysters are also on offer meaning you might find yourself spending the day enjoyed food, drinks and tunes.

The Turk's Head on Parliament Street might seem like any other bar on the outside, but step inside and you'll notice extravagant, Spanish-style architecture and mosaics with plenty of space for live performances and late night DJs. The Turk's Head is the antithesis of the classic Irish pubs that litter the environs of Temple Bar and you can hang out with a pint and something to eat from noon onwards. The Turk's Head tends to play host to a really eclectic variety of music nights for a variety of Dublin communities, a great thing for those with an open mind, but for those with an aversion to Reggae or psy-trance should double check what's on offer for the evening.

The Front Lounge on Parliament Street is a gay-friendly bar that promises no pretension but plenty of effortless chic and comfort with an array of plush sofas. The walls are often adorned with art from local visual artists and you'll find great lunches, delicious cocktails and nights that range from karaoke to Pride related bashes. The food offerings are short but good value and too the point - nothing comes in over ten euro. A great place to relax with a drink before the fun and games kick in later on in the night. Keep an eye out for the monthly LGBT market also.