Best Bars in Cork
Hungry in Cork? Explore top-rated bars with menus, reviews, and local recommendations. Open the free web guide or Evendo app.
The best bars in Cork
- Top rated
- Closest to the centre
- Price level: low to high
- Time to spend: shortest first
- A–Z
20 bars
-
Pub4.0★2,334 reviews
Old Oak
Old Oak is a lively pub and restaurant located at 113 Oliver Plunkett Street in the heart of Cork City, Ireland. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, it offers a mix of traditional Irish hospitality, a diverse menu, and a vibrant social scene. Situated on one of Cork’s busiest shopping and nightlife streets, Old Oak provides a unique experience blending local culture with modern comforts.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
-
Gastropub4.4★1,886 reviews
The Old Town Whiskey Bar at Bodega
Nestled in the heart of Cork’s city centre, The Old Town Whiskey Bar at Bodega is a vibrant gastropub renowned for its extensive whiskey selection, lively atmosphere, and spacious setting with high ceilings and outdoor seating. Combining traditional Irish pub charm with a modern twist, it offers a diverse menu featuring brunch, steaks, and late-night food alongside expertly crafted cocktails and a wide range of whiskeys. This popular venue is perfect for casual gatherings, celebrations, and whiskey enthusiasts seeking an authentic Cork experience.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
-
Pub4.7★1,645 reviews
Mutton Lane Inn
Nestled in the heart of Cork city, Mutton Lane Inn offers an authentic Irish pub experience with its dark wooden interiors, candlelit ambiance, and a welcoming atmosphere. Known for its excellent selection of beers and friendly staff, this historic pub blends traditional charm with a lively social scene, making it a favored spot for locals and visitors alike.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
-
Irish pub4.3★1,625 reviews
An Bróg Bar + Kitchen
An Bróg Bar + Kitchen is a lively Irish pub located on Oliver Plunkett Street in Cork city center. Renowned for its legendary burger menu, eclectic music, and vibrant atmosphere, it blends traditional Irish pub culture with modern culinary innovation. With a welcoming vibe, live DJs, and vegan-friendly options, An Bróg offers a dynamic social experience from afternoon through late night.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
-
Irish pub4.6★1,359 reviews
The Shelbourne Bar
Nestled in Cork’s Victorian Quarter, The Shelbourne Bar is a celebrated Irish pub renowned for its warm hospitality and the largest Irish whiskey collection in the city, boasting over 540 unique bottles. Since 1895, it has offered a cozy, traditional atmosphere with exceptional service, award-winning whiskey tastings, and a vibrant social scene, making it a must-visit destination for whiskey lovers and pub enthusiasts alike.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
-
Irish pub4.3★1,483 reviews
The Thomond Bar
The Thomond Bar in Cork city centre is a vibrant Irish pub known for its lively atmosphere, extensive all-day dining menu, and strong connection to sports culture. Located at 2 Marlboro Street, it offers a traditional pub setting with a focus on quality drinks, including expertly crafted coffee, and hearty Irish fare. Its welcoming vibe and live music make it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
-
Pub4.7★1,094 reviews
The Oval
Located at 25 South Main Street in Cork city centre, The Oval is a celebrated historic pub renowned for its unique oval-shaped ceiling, original 1918 interior, and atmospheric candlelit ambiance. Originally built for Beamish & Crawford brewery, it combines vintage charm with a lively alternative music scene, offering a warm firelit retreat with a rich heritage and a diverse clientele.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
-
Wine bar4.5★1,053 reviews
Arthur Mayne's Pharmacy
Arthur Mayne's Pharmacy in Cork is a unique wine bar and pub housed in a historic building dating back to the early 1700s. Originally a pharmacy for over 120 years, it retains much of its original character, including vintage apothecary cabinets and mosaic signage. The venue offers a blend of heritage ambiance with modern late-night dining and a cocktail bar upstairs, making it a distinctive cultural and social spot in Cork city center.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
-
Cocktail bar4.5★1,003 reviews
Cask
Cask is a stylish cocktail bar and tapas restaurant located in Cork’s Victorian Quarter, renowned for its inventive Irish-inspired cocktails and locally sourced small plates. Since opening in 2017, it has become a vibrant hotspot blending bold design with a warm, inviting atmosphere. Guests enjoy expertly crafted drinks featuring native Irish ingredients alongside a menu celebrating Irish farmhouse cheeses, slow-cooked meats, and seasonal vegetables in tapas-style portions.
Price level $$$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
-
Irish pub4.6★844 reviews
The Raven Bar
Located at 100 South Main Street in Cork city centre, The Raven Bar is a lively Irish pub known for its warm hospitality, innovative food, and expertly crafted cocktails. This popular venue combines a welcoming atmosphere with quality service, making it a favourite spot for locals and visitors alike to enjoy traditional and modern Irish cuisine alongside a wide selection of drinks.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Le Chateau
Le Chateau is a charming and cozy bar located at 93 St Patrick's Street in Cork city center. Established in 1793, it blends historic Irish pub ambiance with a warm, inviting atmosphere. Known for its wide selection of drinks, including local craft beers and Irish coffees, it offers both indoor comfort and outdoor seating. The bar is popular for its friendly service, unique décor, and vibrant social scene, making it a must-visit spot for locals and tourists alike.
Mon 14:00–23:30 · Wed–Sun 14:00–23:30Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
The Hi-B Bar
Nestled on Oliver Plunkett Street in Cork, The Hi-B Bar is a cozy, authentic pub dating back to the 1920s. Known for its warm, old-world ambiance, it invites visitors to disconnect from digital distractions with a no-phone policy and enjoy genuine Irish craic by the fireside. Offering live music and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a cherished local institution where traditional pub culture thrives.
Price level $Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Impala
Impala is a lively bar located at 7-8 Liberty Street in the heart of Cork city, renowned for its extensive craft beer selection and expertly crafted cocktails. With a welcoming atmosphere, friendly staff, and a cozy interior featuring comfortable seating and low lighting, it offers a unique experience for beer enthusiasts and cocktail lovers alike. Open from mid-afternoon to late evening, Impala is a popular spot for locals and visitors seeking quality drinks and great service in a relaxed yet vibrant setting.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
The Black Dog
The Black Dog is a lively cocktail bar and taco restaurant located at 53 North Main Street in Cork’s city centre. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, it features a newly renovated interior, an open kitchen serving authentic Mexican dishes, and a curated selection of tequilas, mezcals, wines, and cocktails. Open from late afternoon into the early hours, it’s a hotspot for alternative music and a social night out in Cork.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
Edison
Edison is a stylish cocktail bar located at 11-12 Washington Street in the heart of Cork city centre. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and moderate pricing, Edison offers a sophisticated setting for enjoying expertly crafted cocktails. Open primarily in the evenings from Thursday to Sunday, it is a popular spot for locals and visitors seeking a lively night out in Cork's bustling centre.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Paladar
Paladar is a lively Latin American-inspired cocktail bar and kitchen located in Cork’s Victorian Quarter. Renowned for its bold, inventive cocktails and delicious small plates, it offers a vibrant atmosphere that shifts from laid-back afternoons to energetic nights. With award-winning drinks, authentic Latin flavors, and a stylish eclectic interior, Paladar is a must-visit destination for cocktail lovers and food enthusiasts alike.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
The Alibi Bar + Kitchen
Located in the heart of Cork city at 31 Washington Street West, The Alibi Bar + Kitchen is a vibrant cocktail bar and tapas spot known for its lively atmosphere, extensive drink menu, and diverse food offerings including vegan and vegetarian options. With a welcoming beer garden and private event spaces, it caters to casual evenings, celebrations, and sports fans alike, making it a dynamic social hub in Cork’s nightlife scene.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
The Silly Goose
Nestled in the heart of Cork city at 3 Washington Street West, The Silly Goose is a lively bar and grill renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, innovative kitchen, and welcoming vibe. With a blend of traditional and modern character, it offers grilled delights, craft beers, cocktails, and live music on weekends, making it a favorite spot for locals and visitors seeking a cozy yet energetic dining experience.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
The Liberty Bar X Resistance
Located in the heart of Cork city centre, The Liberty Bar X Resistance is a dynamic pub blending Irish historical spirit with contemporary nightlife. Known for its industrial-chic decor, craft cocktails, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere, it offers a unique experience where tradition meets modern revelry. The venue features lively events including open mic nights, party games, and surprise snacks, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
No.76
No.76 is a stylish bar and small plates restaurant located within the luxurious Imperial Hotel in the heart of Cork City. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, live music events, and expertly crafted cocktails, No.76 offers a contemporary setting with a blend of classic and modern design. Situated on South Mall, it provides an inviting venue for both locals and visitors seeking quality drinks, intimate gatherings, and lively entertainment in a central city location.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Explore Cork on the map
A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Cork, mapped for you.
More about Cork
Cork travel guide
Cork, Ireland blends harbour history, Georgian streets, lively markets and traditional music with memorable food, culture and coastal day trips.
Tell me more about CorkMore to explore in Cork
Best attractions in Cork
Best landmarks in Cork
Best shops in Cork
Best restaurants in Cork
Best nightclubs in Cork
Best experiences in Cork
Best hotels in Cork
All neighbourhoods in CorkExplore more
Explore more of Ireland
Discover Ireland: A land of enchanting landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, where every corner tells a story and every visit feels like coming home.
Explore Ireland
Getting your guide ready…
We are putting together a fresh copy of the Cork guide. This can take up to a minute.
This can take a few moments. If your browser asks, choose Allow so the download can start. You'll find the guide in your Downloads folder.
Nothing happened? Download it again
Sorry, the guide is taking longer than usual. Please try again in a minute, or get it by email instead.
