The triumph of Irish pubs in Madrid is due to the union of three key things: they are spacious, serve many types of beer and in many of them there is either live music or screens to watch sporting events -even both, although not at the same time because it would be chaos.
Something curious and that is repeated in several Irish pubs in Madrid is that they are located in typical cafes of the nineteenth century. Some bars, by the way , in which they have kept the decor, especially in those wood-paneled walls and antique lamps, but have adapted to the aesthetics of pub that we all have in mind.
In addition, this year is celebrated Ireland Week and the St. Patrick’s Day parade for the first time in Madrid and many of these bars join the celebration with special events.
1. O’conell S.T
O’conell St is one of the historic streets of Dublin’s city center. So it makes perfect sense that an Irish pub refers to one of the liveliest areas of its capital. Here mingle sports lovers, groups of young people and foreigners tired of tapas and lager and thirsty for Guinness. Between pints they also serve food. So, if you are looking for a place to meet with friends, this one fulfills all the conditions.
Calle de Espoz y Mina, 7 (downtown)
2. El Parnasillo del Príncipe
The name of this Irish pub in Madrid is due to the fact that one of the most important gatherings of the nineteenth century, the Parnasillo, was held on this street and its participants met in the old Café del Príncipe. Its low lights, dark wood and high bookshelves are undoubtedly a leap back in time, but this Irish pub is very much alive. There are private English classes or language exchanges and special events that they communicate on their social networks.
Calle del Príncipe, 33 (downtown)
3. James Joyce Irish Pub
Whether you have read James Joyce’s Ulysses or not, this Irish pub in the heart of Madrid is your chance to honor one of the most important Irish writers in history. The classics do not fail: they have taps of various beers, Irish music concerts and a calendar of sporting events to watch on their screens.
Calle de Alcalá, 59 (Salamanca neighborhood)
4. La Fontana de Oro
The Fontana de Oro, which inspired the first novel by Benito Pérez Galdós and where the cream of Spanish society has gathered for centuries, has gone through many names since its original founding in 1782. It is unclear whether it was previously located just a few meters from where this Irish pub with live music now takes its name. It is still part of the history of Madrid’s nightlife and is one of the best places to start the evening with friends.
Calle de la Victoria, 1 (downtown)
5. Collin’s Irish Tavern
Collins is an Irish tavern, as its name suggests, in which dogs are allowed. Of course, before taking your pet, keep in mind that from time to time a Celtic music band starts playing among its tables (it is important to know this in case your canine companion is not very accustomed to the melodies). It is located on the border of Malasaña and Chamberí, very close to Alonso Martínez, one of the areas with more offices in the center, so it is a good place for a lively afterwork.
Calle de Sagasta, 26 (Justicia)