7 Characteristics of an Authentic Irish Pub

Named after the family who owns it.

Pubs are traditionally family-owned. Often, the publican, or pub owner, would live upstairs. They may employ a bartender or two, but more likely than not, O’Shea himself was serving up the brew.

Other pubs are also named for the street where they’re located, like James Street Pub. If you see a name that doesn’t fit these two categories, just check the history of the street. Chances are its namesake is nearby. (i.e. Temprance Pub might be near an historical abstinence movement headquarters.)

A fun-loving publican.

The pub owner in an authentic Irish pub was a revered member of the community. They don’t just love fun, but are committed to helping their patrons enjoy their experience at the pub. Some pull out harmonicas from behind the bar and lead sing-alongs while others jump onto tables and recite limericks.

Here’s our challenge for you: Can you find an authentic Irish pub? Seriously, on your pub tour of Ireland,
as you learn little by little about the history of pubs, can you spot the real deal?

Only serves alcohol.

That’s right – an authentic Irish pub only serves alcohol. During the Celtic Tiger phase of Ireland, when more Irish families started dining out, more pubs started to serve food just to increase revenue. In many countryside Irish pubs, don’t expect Irish food to be served.

Pubs are for the working class.

Yup, the abbreviation “pubs” stands for publics. And these public houses were a come one, come all enterprise specifically designed for the blue-collar, working class of Ireland. So, don’t expect red carpets and trumpets — that’s what the private, members-only clubs were for.

Low-key atmosphere.

An authentic Irish pub will be very laid back and chill … except for the occasional song, band or local entertainment. It is a place of relaxation for meeting friends, not debauchery as in the modern day pub concept. (Public drunkenness is frowned upon in Ireland.)

Traditional decor.

We’re still trying to figure out exactly what this means. While it’s very clear that decor would be local or regional (not contrived modern art) the jury seems to be out on exactly what an authentic Irish pub keeps on the wall. Perhaps vintage beer paraphernalia? Farming antiques?

“Blow-ins” are limited.

That’s a nice way of saying that locals like their pubs filled with other locals. “Blow-ins” is the Irish phrase for travelers or tourists. Most likely, in an authentic Irish pub, blow-ins would be limited to a hotel pub.