Rocco
Washington DC, offers a taste of Ireland right in the heart of the capital.
Step into the world of cozy ambiance and smooth pints as we explore the best Irish pubs in the area.
From traditional music sessions to mouthwatering Irish fare, these authentic establishments serve as oases where locals and visitors alike can immerse themselves in Irish hospitality and enjoy a true pub experience.
Join us on this delightful journey through the top Irish pubs in Washington DC.
The Dubliner Restaurant
4 F St NW, Washington, DC 20001
Phone: (202) 737-3773
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The Dubliner Restaurant is undoubtedly one of the most fun places to go out in DC, thanks to the live music, amicable atmosphere, and seemingly ever-flowing Guinness!
This Irish Pub, located near the Smithsonian’s National Postal Museum, is such a joy to go to, especially with an energetic group of friends.
We always end up eating way more food than we need to (like Shepherd’s pie) and hanging out on the patio drinking beers for way longer than we expect!
Kirwan’s on the Wharf
749 Wharf St SW, Washington, DC 20024
Phone: (202) 554-3818
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Kirwan’s on the Wharf is one of the best Irish pubs in Washington, DC, for summertime hangouts because of the breezy waterfront patio area.
You’ll find important Irish beer and whiskey of all kinds, so you’ll feel right at home if you’re from Ireland.
I especially love that while some Irish pubs play a variety of music, this one plays many Irish tunes that give it an even more traditional feel.
Across the Pond
1732 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20009
Phone: (202) 232-4800
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Across the Pond, located near Mitchell Park, is a relaxed and easygoing Irish pub where you can find all the classics, like Irish Beef Stew.
I appreciate that they have plenty of TVs, making it one of the most fun places to get drinks and watch a sports game in the Dupont Circle area.
It’s also a cheerful spot to go to during happy hour, which lasts longer than most places – until 8 pm!
Murphy’s Grand Irish Pub
713 King St, Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: (703) 548-1717
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If you’re wondering where to get a drink and enjoy a variety of events and live music shows, Murphy’s Grand Irish Pub – near the Alexandria History Museum – might become your new favorite spot.
First of all, they have a wide array of delicious pub grub, including but not limited to wings, mac & cheese, and even egg rolls.
But most importantly (to me, at least), they have great bang-for-your-buck champagne, which is perfect for a fun brunch event.
And you have to appreciate the cozy fireplace in the back, too!
Irish Channel Restaurant & Pub
500 H St NW, Washington, DC 20001
Phone: (202) 216-0046
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Irish Channel Restaurant & Pub, located in Penn Quarter, is a chilled-out, family-run establishment with a combination of Irish and Cajun-style dishes.
It caters to many tastes and preferences due to this unique combo, offering hearty dishes like Shepherd’s Pie as well as spicy dishes like shrimp tacos.
And they serve more than just Irish faves for drinks as well. I appreciate their large selection of wine, which you don’t find at other pubs in the area.
The Celtic House Irish Pub & Restaurant
2500 Columbia Pike, Arlington, VA 22204
Phone: (703) 746-9644
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The Celtic House Irish Pub & Restaurant is over in Arlington, but it’s worth the trip if you’re looking for a more easygoing traditional tavern in an old-school environment.
I love getting out of the main part of the city to enjoy the less crowded area of Arlington anyway, so it’s fun heading here for a pint of Guinness after work with my coworkers or on the weekends.
Plus, The Celtic House probably has the best pot pie in the DMV!
Kelly’s Irish Times
14 F St NW, Washington, DC 20001
Phone: (202) 543-5433
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Kelly’s Irish Times, located near the National Japanese Memorial, is a vibrant and friendly classic Irish bar that has some of the best pub grub in the city.
You can get more traditional options like corned beef or go for more American eats like chicken tenders. Either way, you’ll be in for a treat.
I also appreciate Kelly’s because they’re open late, until 1:30 am and sometimes later, every day of the week!
The Auld Shebeen
3971 Chain Bridge Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
Phone: (703) 293-9600
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If you’re hoping to find a lively Irish pub with live music and dancing, check out The Auld Shebeen near Old Town Square.
This is my and my friends’ go-to spot on the weekends when we’re looking for a fun, energetic time with absolutely no drama or stress.
It always draws in such a friendly and happy crowd, and there are multiple rooms to choose from.
Whether you like live music or dancing in the basement, you’ll find something you like at The Auld.
Daniel O’Connell’s Irish Restaurant & Bar
112 King St, Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: (703) 739-1124
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Daniel O’Connell’s Irish Restaurant & Bar, near Old Town Alexandria Waterfront, is another popular spot for live music, but with a more traditional and elegant feel.
It’s a nice place to watch sports if you appreciate a slightly more elevated environment than your classic sports bar.
Plus, they make mean Scotch Eggs, which go swimmingly alongside a cold Guinness.
Boundary Stone
116 Rhode Island Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001
Phone: (202) 621-6635
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Boundary Stone is best known for its delicious Irish whiskey pours, and it’s located in a convenient location in Bloomingdale.
It has a neighborhood pub feel that’s unassuming and unpretentious, which I love, and it sports a vintage setting that aligns with that atmosphere.
I recommend going here if you don’t just want to drink Guinness but want to slowly sip on some of the finest Irish whiskey in town.
Blaguard
2003 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20009
Phone: (202) 232-9005
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Blaguard, located near Meridian Hill Park, is another neighborhood pub that caters mostly to locals.
If you’ve just moved to the area and are looking to find some consistent friends, you might want to become one of the regulars at Blaguard.
It’s also a great place to watch sports, especially if you’re a die-hard Washington Football Team fan.
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