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Dublin › Temple Bar › The Black Sheep
The Black SheepBWorth Trying
61 Capel St, Rotunda, Dublin, Ireland
· Beer hall, Bar, Brewpub
· 4.4/5 Google (3453 reviews)
Reservations · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Craft-beer focused Dublin brewpub with hearty pub classics and board games; good atmosphere and beers, solid food with occasional service and consistency hiccups.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
The Black Sheep delivers solid neighborhood pub dining with genuine strengths in craft beer expertise and standout comfort food like fish and chips and burgers. However, inconsistent food quality and service speed during peak times prevent it from reaching higher territory. The warm, welcoming atmosphere and genuinely kid-friendly approach make it a reliable choice for casual dining and craft beer enthusiasts, though not a destination establishment.
Restaurant Summary
A Galway Bay Brewery outpost with a bright, relaxed room, The Black Sheep feels warm and bustling. Craft beer fans rave about the taps and friendly staff, with one diner noting the team "talked me through the styles" and even poured tastes. Expect board games on tables, groups laughing over pints, and a cosy pub atmosphere that is central and easy to reach. The cooking leans classic Irish pub with hearty comfort food: fish and chips, beef and stout stew, and a wide burger lineup. Highlights like the IPA-battered haddock and Cashel blue-topped burgers get the love, though a few diners report uneven execution or slow kitchen stretches. Beer guidance is a strength, so pair mains with a house brew and settle in for a casual, craft-forward meal. Families are welcome here. There is a real kids section with a beef slider, mac with butter or cheese, and chicken strips at pocket-friendly prices. Fries, wings, and milder burgers are kid-approachable, while fish and chips suits adventurous teens. It is genuinely kid-friendly without needing a white-tablecloth hush.
At a Glance
- Standout craft beer selection with knowledgeable staff
- Fish and chips and hearty pub staples are crowd-pleasers
- Service speed can lag at busy times; occasional inconsistency in dishes
- Kitchen reportedly closes earlier than posted on some nights
- Board games, dog-friendly, and accommodating to groups
What Sets It Apart
- extensive_craft_beer_list
- board_games_library
- family_and_dog_friendly
What People Love
- Guided beer recommendations with samples
- Crispy, flaky fish and chips
- Lively but welcoming vibe
- Room for groups and meetups
- Kid-friendly menu items
Points of Concern
- Service delays and inattentiveness reported during busy periods, though many note friendly staff otherwise
- Food consistency varies; a few dishes described as bland or reheated
- Pricing for certain items (e.g., salads, non-alcoholic drinks) felt high to some guests
- Kitchen hours may end earlier than listed on occasion; confirm before arriving late
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost€34-44 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pair Fish and Chips (€19.50) with a crisp pils or pale ale.
- Choose Bacon Blues Burger (€19.75) if you enjoy strong blue cheese.
- Vegetarian diners: consider Falafel Burger (€17.25) or Protein Bowl (€11).
Perfect For
- Casual craft beer nights
- Group meetups with board games
- Comfort-food dinners
- Pre- or post-walk city-center stop
Location Insights
Area: Central urban street known for independent venues, lively and welcoming to groups and casual meetups.
Safety: Generally safe, busy pedestrian traffic; typical city-center caution at late hours.
Nearby: Near city center north of the Liffey; pubs, cafes, shops, and tourist footfall nearby.
RotundaRotunda is a lively area near Dublin's city center, characterized by a mix of residential and commercial spaces. It has a strong nightlife and dining scene with pubs, bars, and casual eateries popular among a diverse crowd including students and young professionals.
Capel StreetCapel Street is known for its eclectic mix of independent shops, trendy bars, and diverse restaurants, making it a popular spot for socializing and casual dining in a vibrant urban setting.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–23:30
Tuesday12:00–23:30
Wednesday12:00–23:30
Thursday12:00–23:30
Friday12:00–01:00
Saturday12:00–01:00
Sunday12:00–23:30
Available: Reservations, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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