Fancy a pint in the land down under? Here we’ve rounded up the ten best Irish pubs in Australia.
When visiting or living in Australia, you can feel a million miles away from home. As a matter of fact, the exact distance from the land down under to Ireland is 15,579 kilometres (9,680 miles).
Yet, with its eternal summer energy, diverse landscape, rugged outback, and opportunities for adventure, Oz has captivated the hearts of Irish men and women for generations.
Here are the 10 best Irish pubs in Australia, all of which perfectly encapsulate the essence of a true Irish pub.
10. P.J. O’Brien’s, Sydney – the city spot
Set in the heart of Sydney’s Central Business District (CBD) is P.J. O’Brien’s. This is the sort of spot that is favoured for after-work drinks as well as late-night shenanigans.
In terms of vibes, P.J. O’Brien’s hits all the essential Irish pub marks: Guinness imagery, cold pints, and hot food—and it is super affordable, with daily specials and happy hours, too.
Address: 57 King St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
9. Mick O’Shea’s, Adelaide – the pub with picturesque surroundings
Located in the rolling hills of the Southern Vales is Mick O’Shea’s Hotel, where you can find one of the best Irish pubs in Australia. Its lively atmosphere and picturesque surroundings make it the perfect go-to watering hole.
Step into this pub and you’ll be immersed in the cosy setting, where you can enjoy great pub food, leading premium drink offerings and live music and accommodation.
And if you’ve had one too many drinks, it’s worth noting that there is accommodation on offer, so you can stay the night here too.
Address: Main S Rd, Hackham SA 5163, Australia
8. Durty Nelly’s, Perth – the charming Irish pub
Durty Nelly’s is a top Irish pub located in Perth, Western Australia. This charming classic pub setting nails décor with a certain warmth that is suggestive of watering holes on the Emerald Isle.
Timber and mahogany finishes punctuate floor tiling, panelling, and a thorough back-bar. Its beer garden is also perfection on a warm, sunny day.
Address: 397 Murray St, Perth WA 6000, Australia
7. The Porterhouse, Sydney – the best Guinness
The Porterhouse in Surry Hills, Sydney, is said to have the finest Guinness in all of the state, not to mention that it is one of the best Irish pubs in Australia. This watering hole is small and low-key. It doesn’t overdo the twee décor, but its Irish presence is undeniable.
Snag a spot on the sundeck at dusk and sip away on a pint of the “black stuff” (Guinness).
Address: 233 Riley St, Surry Hills NSW 2010, Australia
6. The Last Jar, Melbourne – your “typical Irish pub”
This simple and to-the-point Irish pub and restaurant nails Irish vibes.
Its minimal décor is Irish through-and-through, without going over the top. And similarly, the food speaks for itself: hearty, Irish pub grub.
Read our article on the top 10 best Irish pubs in Melbourne for more great spots.
Address: 616 Elizabeth St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
5. Paddy’s Irish Pub, Port Douglas – the backpacker’s haven
Paddy’s Irish Pub is located in the never-ending-summer setting of Port Douglas on the northeast coast.
This top Irish pub in Australia is generally favoured by backpackers, road-trippers, and those on a great adventure around the colossal island. Expect an electric atmosphere, live sports, and affordable brews here.
Address: 8 Macrossan St, Port Douglas QLD 4877, Australia
4. Murphy’s Pub, Perth – the all-in-one
Whether you’re looking for a laid-back local, keen to dig into a classic Irish dish, or craving a spot of karaoke, Murphy’s Pub in Perth is your quintessential all-in-one type of Irish pub in Australia.
The venue has a classic bar set up with restaurant dining as well a large outdoor beer garden, perfect for a sunny day on the west coast.
Address: 43-44 Mandurah Terrace, Mandurah WA 6210, Australia
3. The Quiet Man Irish Pub, Melbourne – the award-winning venue
If you’re looking for somewhere to let your hair down, have some craic with Melbourne locals and Irish expats, The Quiet Man Irish Pub in Melbourne is for you.
It’s always a party at The Quiet Man (named after the famous film starring John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara), so expect to get your dancing shoes on and experience the closest thing to Irish hospitality on the other side of the globe.
Address: 271 Racecourse Rd, Flemington VIC 3031, Australia
2. The Wild Rover, Sydney – the alternative Irish pub
The Wild Rover in Sydney is an alternative Irish pub that has adapted to fit the trendy bar culture of its Surry Hill surroundings. It’s a dive, but an Irish one.
Expect an endless offering of whiskey and quirky aspects all around. It is safe to say this is one of the best Irish pubs in Australia.
You can see where this ranks on our list of the ten best Irish pubs in Sydney.
Address: 75 Campbell St, Surry Hills NSW 2010, Australia
1. The Drunken Poet, Melbourne – the top Irish pub
It is widely acknowledged that The Drunken Poet in Melbourne is the leading Irish pub in all of Australia, making it a must-visit location on your Australian Bucket List.
Its charming setting evokes memories of home, while live music, poetry readings, and nightly entertainment make it one of the most engaging and exciting venues on our list.
Address: 65 Peel St, West Melbourne VIC 3003, Australia
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