Reservations
Characterful Temple Bar pub with rock-leaning live music and lively vibe, great pints, but inconsistent door policy and service attitude can mar nights.
Foggy Dew delivers a vibrant Temple Bar experience anchored by excellent location appeal and classic wood-paneled design, with strong live music programming and reliable pints that justify its loyal following. However, inconsistent service attitude—ranging from cheerful to abrasive—combined with variable execution across visits and recent reports of harsh door policies prevent a higher grade. Best experienced on the right night with the right crowd; experiences vary significantly by shift and timing.
The Foggy Dew channels a lively rock bar energy inside a handsome, wood-paneled room in the heart of Temple Bar. On the right night it feels electric—think tight punk and ska sets, fast pours, and a crowd that is ready to dance. One visitor summed it up as, "music at just the right volume and a buzzing room," though quieter weeknights can land more like a sports-bar interlude with the match on. Do note that door policy and staff attitude vary—more than a few guests reported abrasive interactions that ended nights early. The cooking leans classic pub—wings, fries stacked high, and comfort-first sides to back up the pints. This is not a chef show; the draw is atmosphere and a well-poured Guinness. When the bar is humming, service can be swift and cheerful, but there are also accounts of curt refusals and hardline rules at the door, so experiences swing with the shift. Families will find better fits elsewhere during late hours. Earlier in the day, simple items like fries, mac and cheese, or wings could work, but the live music volume and crowding on band nights are not ideal for kids. There is no noted kids menu, and entry policies can be strict, so plan family visits for calmer times.
Area: Touristy cultural quarter with pubs, music venues, and high foot traffic; mixes locals and visitors.
Safety: Busy, well-lit nightlife zone; occasional rowdiness typical for pub districts.
Nearby: Steps from River Liffey, near shops, venues, and transit links across city centre.
Available: Reservations
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