Located in the residential streets of Booterstown, the Old Punch Bowl is quintessential Dublin pub:…read morecharming, historic, and full of character. The exterior has that classic brick-and-wood look you'd expect, hinting at a cozy, timeless space inside. Once you step in, low ceilings, vintage décor, and warm wood tones create a welcoming, traditional pub atmosphere, as football matches play on TV screens overhead, and the fireplace crackles in the corner. It's lively but not overwhelming, with chatter and music that feel proper for drinks and casual dining.
At 8:30pm on a Friday night, our party of ten wanted a traditional Irish pub dinner (our first in the country). The pub was about ¾ full, but with some clever table rearrangement from the flexible waitstaff, we were able to be immediately seated. The menu is classic pub fare (fried appetizers and hearty entrees) - food and drinks aren't cheap by American standards, but given the ambiance, it hits the expected value.
I ordered their Beef & Guinness Pie (€23.50), which is a hearty beef stew topped with a flaky piece of puff pastry. The dish comes with fries, though they were more than willing to substitute a salad at no additional cost; the salad tasted fresh, although I think it had a bit too much mayonnaise. The stew itself was warming and perfect for a chilly January night, with huge chunks of lean yet tender beef, simmered vegetables, and a savory broth with a hint of that classic Guinness flavor. I wish the puff pastry on top were flakier and less flat, though it was tasty when dipped in the stew. While it's a steep price for a pub entree, it's an incredibly large portion that I could barely finish, with a generous helping of meat.
Another delicious dish was their Beer Battered Cod & Chips (€23.50), consisting of an expertly-fried large piece of cod with a perfectly-crispy exterior, chips, salad, and mushy peas. Their chips are thick-cut with a crunchy skin, yet tender, soft interior, and great when paired with their tangy, mayonnaise-based sauce.
This is a lovely spot for generously-portioned pub fare in the charming neighborhood of Booterstown, and I'm more than willing to pay a premium for its fun, laid-back atmosphere, fast and friendly service, and tasty dishes; we'll certainly be returning to attend one (or more) of their various themed nights!
