Arthur Mayne's Pharmacy: Cork's Historic Pharmacy Turned Wine Bar

A Heritage Building Steeped in History

Arthur Mayne's Pharmacy is located at 7 Pembroke Street in Cork city, in a building constructed around 1720. Originally a four-story house built circa 1790, it served as a pharmacy for over 120 years, with a mosaic sign still visible today. The building's history spans centuries of Cork's development, witnessing eras such as the Anglo-Irish Ascendancy, the Act of Union, and the Irish struggle for independence. Remarkably, the structure survived the burning of Cork in 1920, preserving its authentic character and architectural heritage.

A Unique Blend of Pharmacy and Wine Bar

The ground floor of Arthur Mayne's retains the feel of an old pharmacy, with glass cabinets showcasing medicines, cosmetics, and apothecary items from the past century. This heritage setting is combined with a modern wine bar and pub atmosphere, offering a wide range of wines served from behind the original pharmacy counter. The venue is one of Cork’s few late-night dining spots, serving food until 1:30am daily, making it popular for both casual meals and evening socializing.

Intimate Cocktail Bar Upstairs

Upstairs, the space transforms into an intimate cocktail bar, maintaining much of the original building's untouched features. This discreet area offers handcrafted cocktails in a setting that reflects the building’s rich history. The upstairs bar provides a cozy and atmospheric experience, contrasting with the lively pub downstairs, and is known for its carefully crafted drinks and unique ambiance.

Atmosphere and Experience

Visitors to Arthur Mayne's experience a seamless blend of history and contemporary social life. The preserved pharmacy elements create a nostalgic and quirky environment, while the wine and cocktail offerings add sophistication. The venue’s late hours and central location make it a favored spot for locals and visitors seeking a distinctive Cork night out. The adjoining Crane Lane Theatre adds to the cultural vibrancy of the area.

Architectural and Cultural Significance

The building’s architecture reflects its long history, with a 1959 shopfront and original features that highlight its evolution from a pharmacy to a modern bar. The mosaic signage and preserved interiors serve as a living museum of Cork’s social and commercial past. Arthur Mayne's stands as a testament to adaptive reuse, preserving heritage while serving contemporary urban life.

Legacy and Local Connection

The venue is leased from the Byrne family, with Jim Byrne having worked at the pharmacy since the 1940s, adding a personal and local dimension to its story. This connection enriches the visitor experience, linking past and present through stories embedded in the place. Arthur Mayne's Pharmacy remains a cherished landmark, celebrating Cork’s history with a lively and welcoming atmosphere.