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Dublin › Temple Bar › The Old Stand
The Old StandBWorth Trying
37 Exchequer St, Dublin 2, D02 F251, Ireland
· Irish pub, Pub
· 4.4/5 Google (2019 reviews)
Reservations · Outdoor seating
Historic Dublin pub with an excellent pint and hearty classics; lively atmosphere but service warmth varies and prices are city-centre level.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
The Old Stand earns a grade B through exceptional historic charm and strong whiskey expertise, but inconsistent service warmth and variable food quality prevent higher standing. A reliable pub stop near Trinity with excellent pints and comforting classics, though service depends on who's behind the bar.
Restaurant Summary
A short stroll from Trinity, this historic spot hums with classic pub charm—dark wood, creamy pints, and the easy flow of conversation. Guests rave about the pour, calling it a textbook Guinness, and several note staff who remember orders and offer friendly chat. Some visits stumble on tone—reports of abrupt or curt service appear, especially at busy times—so the welcome can depend on who is on shift. The kitchen sticks to comforting Irish staples: stew, fish and chips, burgers, smoked salmon, and hearty sandwiches. It is not a temple of innovation, but it delivers reliable pub classics with portions that satisfy and prices that reflect the city-centre address. Whiskey enthusiasts mention a broad selection, while cocktail fans should expect higher city pricing for mixed drinks. Families do fine here thanks to kid-friendly mains like burgers, fish and chips, and simple pastas. No formal kids menu is shown, but sides and sandwiches help customize smaller appetites. Space gets tight at peak hours and restrooms involve stairs, so earlier visits are easier with children.
At a Glance
- Excellent pint of Guinness and strong whiskey selection
- Historic pub atmosphere with central location
- Hearty, familiar pub dishes at fair city-centre value
- Service warmth varies, with several rude-staff reports
- Can be crowded; limited seating and stairs to restrooms
What Sets It Apart
- historic_pub_heritage
- excellent_pint_pour
- central_pre_theatre_spot
What People Love
- Creamy, well-poured Guinness
- Warm, wood-lined historic setting
- Friendly bartenders who remember orders
- Comforting Irish staples that feel familiar
- People-watching from the bar or outdoor barrels
Points of Concern
- Intermittent reports of rude or curt staff interactions, more likely at peak times
- Food consistency can dip during rush periods (temperature and delays)
- Cocktails and some whiskeys priced on the high side for budget seekers
- Crowding and stairs may challenge mobility needs
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost€34-47 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Choose mains in the €15-23 range for best value; add a €6.50 soup to round out a light meal
- Families can split a burger plus sides to manage cost and portion size
Perfect For
- Pre-theatre pints and a quick bite
- Casual group catch-ups in the city centre
- Solo travelers seeking a classic Irish pub
- Visitors looking for an authentic-feel pint
Location Insights
Area: Historic city-centre street with busy pubs and shops; attracts office workers, shoppers, and visitors.
Safety: Well-trafficked central area with strong footfall; typical urban cautions at night but generally safe.
Nearby: Near Gaiety/Olympia theatres, Trinity College, shopping streets; ideal pre-show or tourist stop.
Temple BarTemple Bar is a lively and iconic neighborhood famous for its cobbled streets, pubs, live music venues, and cultural institutions. It attracts a diverse crowd looking for casual dining, traditional Irish pubs, and vibrant nightlife in a historic setting.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday10:30–23:30
Tuesday10:30–23:30
Wednesday10:30–23:30
Thursday10:30–23:30
Friday10:30–00:30
Saturday10:30–00:30
Sunday12:00–23:00
Available: Reservations, Outdoor seating
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