Our Picks for Culture Night 2024 Food and Drink Pit Stops
Culture Night 2024 is upon us, and for one magical evening, Ireland transforms into a playground of discovery and creativity. Now in its 19th year, this celebration is set to be bigger than ever, with over 1,000 free events nationwide. In Dublin alone, there are hundreds of activities showcasing the rich heritage and culture of our vibrant city.
With so much going on, it can feel overwhelming deciding where to go—and, more importantly, where to eat and drink to fuel your cultural adventures. Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered with some of the best food and drink pit stops around the city. Here’s our guide to keep you well-nourished and in the spirit of exploration!
Pair it with: Chez Max and The Lord Edward
Dublin Castle is a must-visit on Culture Night. Explore the stunning State Apartments, where history oozes from every corner, or head to the Chester Beatty for a guided tour of the impressive collections.
When it’s time to refuel, head to Chez Max right outside the gates on Dublin’s shortest street, Palace Street. This cosy spot offers traditional French fare at reasonable prices—don’t miss the crème brûlée or the famous cheese plates.
For a drink, pop around the corner to The Lord Edward. This classic Dublin pub is stuffed full of character and creativity, making it the perfect place to enjoy a creamy pint and soak in the Culture Night vibes.
Pair it with: The Gravediggers
If you make it outside of the city centre to Glasnevin you’re in for a treat. Glasnevin Cemetery is playing host to the aptly named ‘Dead Interesting‘ tour. The story of our nation lies within the walls of this cemetery. With over 1.5 Million people laying in eternal rest here, there is no shortage of stories.
Of course, no trip to Glasnevin is complete without stopping by John Kavanagh’s aka, The Gravediggers. This historic pub has been serving some of Dublin’s best pints since 1833. The coddle here is a must-try, a bowl of tradition and culture that perfectly embodies the spirit of the night.
Pair it with: Arthur’s Pub or Love Tempo
The Liberties are buzzing for Culture Night, and the Guinness Storehouse is the crown jewel. Catch a live 30-piece orchestra playing a curated set of classical and contemporary hits. Across the road at the Digital Hub, a night market will feature local design, food, and vintage wares.
For some old-school charm, head to Arthur’s Jazz Bar for a pint by the fire—even in warm weather, there’s nothing like it. If you’re craving a contemporary vibe, Love Tempo is your spot for cocktails and craft beers, plus some authentic Mexican food from El Milagro. They’re also hosting Nocturnal Beats with Mango and Friends—perfect for those looking to keep the night going.
Pair it with: The Glimmer Man
Collins Barracks opens its doors for an interactive tour exploring the lives of soldiers stationed there from 1706 to 1993. You can also dive into Ireland’s wartime food and drink history at the museum.
Since you’re just a stone’s throw away from Stoneybatter, sure it would be rude not to go ahead and pop over to one of their famous pubs for a pint and a munch. TThe Glimmer Man is a quirky, treasure-filled gem has great pints and tasty food from Vietnom. Its a delicious taste of Southeast Asia without breaking the bank. Plus there are plenty of options for vegetarians, vegans, and gluten-free diners meaning there’s something for everyone in your group.
Pair it with: Allta
Unless you live or work at the docklands you may not often have the opportunity to travel over that way but there but there’s a lot to see. Culture Night is the perfect time to explore this area. Take a guided bus tour of the port or hop on The Old Liffey Ferry for a scenic river tour offering views of the city you rarely get to see.
Allta is one of the most innovative restaurants in Dublin right now. The food is creative, bold, and exciting. While the main dining room is tough to get into, you can always walk into the bar for a drink. Try the BBQ Pineapple Margarita or the carbonated Negroni for something different.
