I was in Dublin for a couple of nights after a wonderful cruise around Scotland. While on a walking tour, the tour guide recommended this place. Two friends joined me later for dinner. The place was packed. We enjoyed our dinner (I had the Beef & Guinness Stew along with a glass of red wine) while listening to live music. The only downside for us is that the waiter wouldn't give separate checks. read more

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Despite the mixed reviews I wanted to have one last fish and chips before we left Ireland and Darkeys delivered! I had not planned far enough ahead to get reservations at the Fish Shop so was lowering my expectations for lunch. Service was great, atmosphere was dark and definitely sports pub like. Not too noisy for lunch and a cute Irish family sat next to us. - fish and chips - 5/5 I thought these were excellent- almost like a tempura crust to the fish and the chips were crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. Mushy peas were not my favorite flavor so skipped those after a taste. Tartar sauce was solid. - seafood chowder - 3/5 my partner had this and it was more like two dozen (!) mussels in broth, not a chowder at all. He still enjoyed it but to be clear it wasn't a seafood chowder as there were only mussels and a broth read more

Darkey Kellys - Mussels in broth not seafood chowder! - Pubs Near Me - Dublin, D

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This place was recommended by our tour guide, and we happened to be staying at the hotel attached to it, so it was also recommended by the hotel front desk. The inside entry to Darkey Kellys is a few steps from the elevator of the hotel. We walked there, and it was being used as a passageway for staff carrying food from the hotel to the bar and staff cleaning and bussing tables. All of them ignored us, as I guess not many patrons use that route to get to the bar. We entered and looked around and it was packed. Someone noticed us and said they only had seating in the garden up top and did t take reservations. We went to the garden but there was no seating for 5, plus they were smoking. We went back down and walked the bar, which ended up being a circle. Again, a staff member saw us and hurriedly and in an irritated tone, told us they had no tables and no reservations. Period. He stared at us after saying that information. We decided to leave via the way we came in, and he told us we couldn't go that way-we couldn't enter there. We asked him if we could go to the hotel, and he immediately changed and said, "oh, the hotel" and let us in and walked away. Another employee who heard our interaction caught us as we were walking back to the elevator and mentioned that the staff at the front desk could help us get a table in the hotel because the food came from the same kitchen. We asked the front desk who confirmed they could get us a table and call us when it was ready, so we went up to the room and waited. Sure enough, they called and we got a table! First impressions do matter, and it's too bad the staff at the bar decided to concentrate on themselves versus others. read more

Delicious traditional Irish food and music! I enjoyed the Guinness stew with an Orchard Thieves. The place was busy but service was still great! We enjoyed the live music. It's a loud place! read more

Darkey Kellys - Guinness Stew - Pubs Near Me - Dublin, D

We drifted in here about 5 pm and the place was hopping. Live music and a short wait for a table. Great, loud pub ambiance. We ate an early dinner, including lamb shank and beef stew. Both were good and exactly what you think of for Irish comfort food. Friendly, efficient staff. It's a tourist spot, but a fun one. Btw: the name is not racial. The original owner was Dorcas Kelley, nickname Darkie. read more

Darkey Kellys - Pubs Near Me - Dublin, D

I'll start with the good: loved the vibes and look and feel and the fact that they do different styles of live music every night means I just might be back. The staff are also very nice and despite how busy it is, service was quick. Neutral: this place was smaller than I was expecting and could be cramped if you're trying to eat as well as drink Bad: the food left something to be desired. I tested bangers and mash and barely made it through one sausage as they seemed mushy and the texture through me off. Would return but not to eat read more

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This is a tourist trap. If you want okay food and music you're good. The food came out fast and for one dish mostly cold and hot in places, you know, like it was microwaved. But they replaced it with a hot plate. We asked for tap water yet they still brought expensive bottled waters, I mean why not fleece the tourists they probably wont be back, so thats why the 2 stars. read more

Darkey Kellys - It was cold unless you dug and you'd find warm pockets. The bread was great. - Pubs Near Me - Dublin, D

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Lively, busy, fast service, excellent fish and chips, and a proper pint of Guinness, of course. Live music made it even more fun. A happy pub, highly recommended! read more

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Food was spectacular, environment was lively and drinks were cold and wet. Excellent evening here. read more

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We came to Darkey Kelly's rather late in the evening. Very busy & loud traditional Irish pub located in the Temple Bar area. We were mighty happy to have gotten seats and had a real tasty dinner shortly before the kitchen closed. Lively crowd listened to a cheerful Irish band . Really enjoyed ourselves. Seemed like a mix of both tourists & locals. Would definitely recommend The fish n chips got an A from my husband & I liked the creamy pasta w/bacon & mushroom Good size portions.Attentive service. read more

Darkey Kellys - Outside of pub - Pubs Near Me - Dublin, D

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Excellent service and great atmosphere. Food was great as well. The live music was very entertaining.

Darkey Kelly's was our first pub stop during our stay in Dublin. We sat at the bar and were served by Leon and Tom. Enjoyed the atmosphere and seeing all the law enforcement patches on the walls. Leon was attentive and funny. We ordered the wings and split a hamburger and of course had a pint of Guinness and several other drinks. We arrived at about 3:30 pm and had such a great experience we stayed to listen to their live entertainment. Our last drink at the bar was Irish coffee's which were truly amazing with perfect foam on top. I would recommend Darkey Kelly's to anyone looking for fun pub with great bar tending! read more

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This is our second time at Darkey Kelly's. Today we stopped in for a drink and to rest our feet a while. It is definitely mush less crowded than it was the last time we were here. They have music 7 nights a week starting at 7:30pm here so it's a fun place to come in the evening for dinner but be prepared to come early or to wait for a table. There was someone keeping track of the order people arrived the last time we came. He was great and didn't let people sit out of turn even though he never took down a single name. We ate dinner here last time. I got a burger and my husband got Guinness stew. The burger was large but a little dry this time. but the fries were perfection. The Guinness Stew was tender with rich gravy over potatoes served with a piece of Irish bread. The only thing my husband wished it had was more chunks of vegetarians. I'm sure they were used to make the stew though. read more

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The largest helping of Guinness stew I've probably ever had and was it flavorful! It came with a side of soda bread (obviously) so if you're feeling ambitious then you can probably eat it all but I'd skip it and just have more stew. Live music every night so if you want a chance to snag a seat, you have to go early! Servers are so kind and friendly. read more

Darkey Kellys - Baby Guinness - Pubs Near Me - Dublin, D

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We were tourists in Dublin and ended up mostly at tourist type places, so it was a nice twist of fate that we stumbled across this Darkey Kellys. This place just feels like your home local pub. The service is excellent, the drinks are strong, and the food is great. We must've arrived at a perfect time in early afternoon because we were seated quickly and had an attentive staff looking after us. We had a wonderful time there and I'd highly recommend it to anybody. read more

Darkey Kellys - Bar area - Pubs Near Me - Dublin, D

We stayed in Dublin for 4 days and we came back to Darkey Kelly's 4 times. Dublin is already an incredible city with a beautiful music atmosphere and kind people. Dark Kelley's only adds more charm to an already beautiful city. My steak is probably the best food I had in all my Euro trip. The bar tenders were so friendly and fast (and so handsome!). Loved the food. Loved the musicians. Loved the place so much! read more

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The food was spot on, plentiful and flavorful. The atmosphere was great and service is at a high standard. read more

Darkey Kellys - Bangers and Mash - Pubs Near Me - Dublin, D

Loved it! Good music and fun people! Bartenders are on top of it and quick. Love all the history that it has and is a must visit. read more

Darkey Kellys - Pubs Near Me - Dublin, D

We arrived around 7pm on a Monday night and it was packed. There were no tables available and since it was on a first come first serve basis securing one seemed impossible. I ran into the manager Nathy in the bathroom and mentioned to him they're so busy. He asked me how many were in our party. Told him just me and my wife. He said not to worry he will get me a table. Less than 10 minutes later one of the servers got us one. Service was fast, food and drinks were excellent! Thank you Nathy and staff for making our experience at Darkey Kelly's memorable. read more

Darkey Kellys - Pubs Near Me - Dublin, D

Definitely our best dining experience in Dublin. We met a couple of friends who live close by and we thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Charming and epitomizing what you would think of as a classic Irish pub with a great atmosphere. I opted for the seafood chowder which was a huge bowl of mussels, cod, shrimp and potatoes in a rich and creamy broth. I also sampled the lamb shank and beef stew and both were outstanding. The music was all Irish classics as opposed to the cover bands at other pubs we visited where they were playing mostly American music. Staff was very friendly and accommodating. Prices were very reasonable for the quality and portions. read more

Such a fun place! Exactly the ambiance I was hoping for in an Irish pub. Good music & food & great drinks too! read more

Darkey Kellys - Front entrance area - Pubs Near Me - Dublin, D

A super cool spot to visit especially given the dark history/background of this establishment. Music was great, food was middle of the road, but service was top notch! A must visit in Dublin if in the area... read more

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Just go. Don't think, don't blink, just go. The cleanest toilets in a pub. The friendliest staff. The best beef stew. What else can you ask for? I stayed for a while and had a really good time. Tried a few Irish whiskeys and drank a few Guinness. The crowd was touristy in the middle of the day (of course) but it was an absolute delight to hang out here. Do not miss out on this gem. read more

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Our first night in Dublin didn't disappoint! Went here based on others recs on YELP and it was perfect. Food was great and so was the outdoor patio. Sat with 2 strangers from the States at a community table and loved getting to know them and their recommendations. read more

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The legendary Darkey Kelly's always has a full house. It's definitely easier to get seated at lunch or afternoon, but it's shoulder to shoulder at dinner time, especially when the live music begins. They have multiple dining areas including an outdoor patio, but people are crammed into every space. They have a great menu with plenty of traditional Irish dishes, all of which are excellent. The beef stew was rich and hearty over mashed potatoes with Irish brown bread. There are about 14-15 beers on draft, over 200 whiskeys and plenty of mixed drinks. The staff is as friendly as can be when it's packed and loud. The music was a mixed bag... some singer songwriters were excellent, but one kept reminding the crowd that albums are available for purchase and tips are appreciated after every song he sang. He was the only musician we encountered that asked for money, and he did it relentlessly. Check their schedule for the type of music scheduled each day to find what you like. read more

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Delicious food, friendly service, great Irish pub atmosphere. We didn't go during the live music but the place was still packed, but we got seated and served quickly. We ordered the Easter lamb special and it was delicious and ridiculously huge servings. read more

Darkey Kellys - Easter lamb special with mashed potatoes, fried potatoes, broccoli, asparagus and Yorkshire puddings. Gram for scale. - Pubs Near Me - Dublin, D

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Great fun. Traditional Irish Music, friendly service and a perfect pint of Guinness. My grandson's first visit to a pub. read more

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We had a great time here. A bit touristy but also authentic and fun. We came early (5:00ish) so didn't have any difficulty getting a table. I had the FABULOUS beef and Guinness stew, my husband had the fish and chips, and my son a burger (and a Guinness 0 - what a nice option!). We loved everything and would recommend it to anyone visiting Dublin. Great music started around 7:30 also! read more

Darkey Kellys - Beef and Guinness stew - Pubs Near Me - Dublin, D

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This pub has it all - great food, music, atmosphere, and drinks. We went here last Friday and enjoyed listening to the live music duo that played familiar songs from Elvis, James Taylor, Billy Joel, etc. The crowd was singing along and it was so much fun! Their fish and chips were the best I've ever had, and the bangers and mash were super flavorful. I love the sauce they used. Darkey Kellys will be one of the first stops I make on my next trip to Dublin. read more

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Not sure why this place gets such a high rating. It's not bad but nothing special. I had the soup and Guiness Stew which was average at best. The bread was ok. The Guiness was good not overpriced. But it really is just dull Of Americans; and I am American. The music this day was forgettable; line guitar player singing Elvis and Felix Navidad in April? His jokes were bad too. I guess people Go there because someone or something told them it's a great spot? read more

What's up: Just arrived in Dublin off the train at Heuston Station and did a quick walk through of the city to take in the sights. After a bit of sightseeing, it was definitely time to eat. My friend had recommended Darkey Kellys for their food and the vibe. Transit: I arrived by foot, so parking was not an issue for me. There is street parking available nearby. Environment: Walking in, the place was quiet for an early lunch, but it quickly filled up after I was seated (was directed by a staff member to just pick any spot to sit at). Choices include tables, booths, and bar seating. After placing my order, I had a short wait before the food came; it was a larger portion than I was expecting! The place was dimly lit and had TVs hanging from the walls. The restrooms are located towards the right of the building down a short hallway (clearly labeled). What was ordered: - Beef and Guinness Stew (had to try a classic Irish dish and it did not disappoint. Yummy and tasty) - Guinness (very smooth) Yay/Nay/Meh: Yay. This was a delicious meal. I'm glad I got to try it and since it was such a large portion, I had to take the rest of it to go. Staff members were friendly. Ambiance was nice. Credit cards are accepted. read more

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By far my best meal and conversations in Dublin here at Darkey Kellys. They have local exclusive beers on tap that are great, and the live music is amazing. Cherry on top is the extremely welcoming and funny staff. read more

Darkey Kellys - Guinness Stew - Pubs Near Me - Dublin, D

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We had such a fun time at this bar. We ended up getting a seat really close to the music and stayed for a while. The band was great and everyone was having a great time. The vibe was super fun and the service friendly. One of my favorite spots in Dublin. A little less crowded than everywhere else as well. read more

What an amazing experience here while in Dublin! The reviews speak for themselves. Pub is internationally known and we certainly found out why. Pints were perfectly poured. Service was impeccable. Made us feel like a couple of locals. Beautiful bar! Will definitely return on our next trip to Dublin! read more

Darkey Kellys - Pubs Near Me - Dublin, D

Good music, good food and drinks! What better way to spend our last evening in Dublin. Food was amazing! The green curry chicken was so creamy and just the right level of spiciness. My sister had the lamb and said it was incredible. Service was decent, not overbearing. read more

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I asked the Internet for a list of great Irish pubs and Darkey Kellys was near the top. So before dinner, this was a stop. And yes, it's hopping with live music, lots of people sitting and talking, some food being consumed. I sat at the bar which gave me a great opportunity to see dozens of Guinness pints being poured. Yes, Darkey Kellys is full of tourists and not many locals. But it is in the tourist district, adjacent to the Christ Church Cathedral, Dublinia and others. [Review 1993 of 2024 - 173 in Republic of Ireland - 23015 overall] read more

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Stayed at the Harding Hotel and this pub was attached to the downstairs of the hotel. We had an amazing time hanging out at the pub, having a Guinness for the first time while listening to local Irish music. The people of Dublin were very welcoming! Both of the burger and the fish and chips were fantastic! read more

Darkey Kellys - Outside entrance to the pub - Pubs Near Me - Dublin, D

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During our recent (first) trip to Ireland, we spent a day in Dublin before exploring the rest of the countryside. And the first Irish (a very proper) Pub we visited was Darkey Kellys! And what an AMAZING pub! The ambience was great, food and drinks (had my 1st ever Guiness), but MOST importantly...the Staff was EXCEPTIONAL! And one employee really stood out above the rest, James. He was very engaging, so patient, and really made us feel welcome (in a sea of tourists)! In the course of 3 full days in Ireland, we visited Darkey Kellys three times and each time was better that the last. James is a master at what he does and we will always hold Darkey Kellys in a special place. A MUST visit!! read more

Great atmosphere and drinks. Highly recommend it! Fish and chips looked great but tasted good. read more

Darkey Kellys - Great selection of beers. Guinness was silky smooth! - Pubs Near Me - Dublin, D

Best food we had in Dublin, hands down. We came in on a busy Friday night and the band was great, so the place was packed. No real seating announcement so we assumed it was first come first serve. We found two seats on the side of the bar and the rest of our party stood. The bartender was an awesome dude, even though it was busy he always made sure to get our drinks, etc. Both bands we heard were awesome, with a mix of traditional irish music and some hits us Americans would know. Foodwise- we got the lamb shank and the beef stew, along with a side of wings. Both entrees were absolutely massive- we highly recommend splitting as it was a ton of food for one person (and even for 2). The stew was great with a darker sauce, and the lamb shank fell off the bone and came with a ton of veggies. The wings were good and on the smaller side, which was nice. The only issue with this spot is one staff member, who I am not sure if she was acting as the manager that night. She came over and shoved our seats to the side, saying we were too close to the drink pick up area. We hadn't moved the chairs when we came in- we had just sat down at the only 2 spots we could find. OK- we didn't mind moving over. A party behind us using 7 stools at a 4 top were leaving, and I asked them to take one chair to the bar as they left so one of the remaining 2 of us could sit while we ate. When I did this, this manager once again came over and berated me, saying this table is reserved and we cannot move chairs and that she would "try to find us a table to sit at ASAP". Look - there was no posted seating system at the front and I know they do not take reservations. I was unsure why paying, EATING guests were berated for wanting to sit, using a chair that wasn't even used for the next group of 4. Also, the manager kept working the bar and never "found us a spot" like I knew she wouldn't. Overall still a 4 star because the food, the music, and the bartender were amazing. read more