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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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

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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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

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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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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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 amazing, loved every dish we got. The wait staff were very friendly and the service was great. We got there a bit before the rush so it was nice and not crowded at that point. read more

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

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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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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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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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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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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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

We sat at the bar as no tables were open. Shared a fish and chips dinner (very tasty). Great live music. Bartenders were nice and helpful. It was busy and people were waiting for our seats once we were done. Good location (easy to find and walkable from our hotel). read more

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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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'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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It was St. Patrick's Day weekend and the whole temple bar was crowded beyond belief! And still, we found a nice table at Darkey Kelly's for drinks, good CRAIC, great service in an ambience that was off the hook. If you like, live music and lively people, get yourself there! read more

Darkey Kellys - Big portions for dinner - Pubs Near Me - Dublin, D

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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Nice pub to start our first day in Dublin. Just what you picture for an Irish pub with good eats and great beer.

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

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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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

I stumbled upon this cute pub without knowing its history. From the pub's website: "For generations Darkey Kelly was known in Dublin's folk memory as the woman who was burned at the stake for witchcraft but new evidence uncovered suggests that although she was innocent of witchcraft she still had a dark side to her character. The discovery of bodies under the floorboards of the brothel she ran in 1761 suggests she may have been Ireland's first serial killer!" Okay, maybe this pub is not supposed to be cute, but the ambiance and food are great. Locals frequent this pub. I didn't have the opportunity to listen to traditional Irish music here, but just grabbing a table here makes me feel like a local. I got the Fish & Chips and the Guinness Chocolate Mousse; both were great. The fish could have been seasoned a little better, but the batter for the Fish & Chips was light and airy -- did not taste greasy at all. The homemade tartar sauce and green pea puree that came with it were delicious. The Guinness Chocolate Mousse was pretty rich with way too much whipped cream, but I just removed some of it. I would definitely come here more often...if I had more local friends, that is! read more

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Nice bar, live local talent for music, bartender is great, food was delicious. According to the local "Norm, who has his seat at the bar for 21 years, not in season". read more

Darkey Kellys - Lamb is very good - Pubs Near Me - Dublin, D

Potentially the best pub food I had while in Dublin and that's after a lot of places. Extensive menu of Irish classics. Big portions and big tastes. Lamb Shank: Love how fall off the bone tender the lamb was. Sauce was savory and went great with the mashed potatoes. Loved the cubed root veggies. Also appreciated that they only gave two pieces of broccoli, since that's more than enough. Seafood Chowder: Very creamy and very smoky. Tons of mussels, a lot more than I expected. Lots of smoked fish too. The flavor here was very intense! Unlike any chowder I've ever had. read more

Darkey Kellys - Lamb Shank - Pubs Near Me - Dublin, D

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We spent the day wandering Dublin, passed the Guinness store was closed. Towards the end of our day we found Dark Kellys and since my Mother in law is a Kelly, we gave it a try. Traveling with 2 disabled people is never easy to accommodate, but the staff did their best. 4 meals ordered, 3 fish and chips and one burger. The food was excellent a d tasted great. Good size portions. A great little bar with awesome patches supporting first responders from around the world. Found some from my home states and even one supported my beloved Border Patrol. The staff was friendly and the patrons were very nice as well. You get the props and honor of serving me my first Pint in what I call the Motherland..... read more

Darkey Kellys - Seattle, San Diego, and Border/Customs support patches - Pubs Near Me - Dublin, D

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We wanted to make sure we had traditional Irish food while in Ireland. We were there for 10 days and tried several restaurants from Dublin to Cork. Darkey Kelley's by far had the most delicious food. So much so, that we ate there 3-4 times. They have the best fish and chips in Dublin and beyond! We found that fish and chips can be hit or miss but not there. We had the burger, stew, and another dish that I forget. Every dish we had, we thoroughly enjoyed. The musical entertainment was also great. Even though it was packed each time we went, we loved the environment and that's saying a lot bc I don't like others sitting too close and on top of me esp when eating. We definitely plan to eat there again when we return. read more

Darkey Kellys - Fish and chips - Pubs Near Me - Dublin, D

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We were too early to check in to the NYX Hotel. The front desk manager suggested Darkey Kelly's for lunch. Great recommendation. Walked into a quintessential Irish pub. Dark wood and plenty of old beer advertising posters. Servers were very friendly and helpful. We ordered some traditional pub grub. Fish chowder, Irish stew, and fish & chips. All very good. read more

Loved this pub! My wife and I wanted Trad and this was the place! Very high energy and good vibes! Our bartender Tig (sp?) was perfect. He poured perfect Guinnesses (this IS Dublin, after all), and recommended a terrific whiskey for us: Green Spot! We went back the next night too! read more

Darkey Kellys - Pubs Near Me - Dublin, D

No food and the place kinda smells guess they have a holiday party no food in the customer 20 minutes for nothing.

Got recommended this by a friend and it was so worth it!! The food was big portions and so worth it!! They got a big group in quick and were able to get us service fast!! They have a lot of traditional irish dishes well worth the try! Kinda hot on warmer days but well worth it for the food. read more

Darkey Kellys - bangers and mash - Pubs Near Me - Dublin, D

The food here was amazing. Reasonably priced too (for Dublin). I had the fish and chips and my partner had the bangers and mash. I think she's a convert now. Beers are reasonably priced too (again for Dublin) and the bar staff were professional and fun. We went on a live music night but said outside in their patio. Music was great, patio was quaint and cozy. Even during the heat wave Definitely would recommend. read more