Smith’s of Phibsboro

Smith’s is my Dad’s local, but don’t let that fool you. It’s not an old man’s pub. Although, it does attract a very mixed crowd, both young and old.
They do serve food during the day and in the evening, though I’ve never had the privilege of sampling it.
Two bars, one small and slightly more subdued, the other bigger, with a dancefloor area and a DJ at the weekend. So, as you can imagine the bigger main bar gets quite loud and busy at the weekend. It gets quite lively. Oh, and, as is always the case back home, the obligatory outdoor, heated smoking area with seating and tables.
Only one option of Dark Rum, which they ran out of the first time I was there. Otherwise, it’s got a reasonable selection of drinks. But I doubt the wine selection is all that great. I’ve never tried it so I can’t say for sure.
Friendly and competent staff. Open late night.

I love Smith’s of Phibsboro. It’s one of those perfect all rounder types of bar/​restaurant. There’s a pretty extensive menu and while it’s not fine dining, the food is actually quite good and very reasonable. They do everything from steaks, burgers and lovely salads to prawn starters, catering for lunch or dinner. I’ve gone there with my parents and they were perfectly happy with their meal, service and surroundings. In fact the service is bang on.
If you’ve no intention of eating, it’s also a really nice pub with two ‘side’s that come alive particularly on weekends as it opens late. And if you’d rather be outdoors there’s also a great beer garden that is always heated to keep the smokers warm.
Smith’s is roomy enough to hold the masses on the busiest of nights, however if there is a match or gig on in nearby Croke Park it can become a little too mobbed. Still, the atmosphere is always positive and the staff are generally attentive enough to be able to cope with an overflow. Speaking of the staff (again!), if you’ve been in there at least twice, they tend to remember you — a plus in any establishment and one that would certainly make you go go back. And I have, many a time!