Jordan McCraeAuckland’s buzzing social scene wouldn’t be complete without Irish pubs. But with so many scattered around, narrowing down our list to just the best was no easy feat.
Many, many pints had to be downed to test each option, and many drunken songs had to be belted out unashamedly.
But hey, we chose to make the sacrifice ourselves to help you out here. And now, after much, er, hardship, we can say these are the best Irish pubs in Auckland for a good party (or two)!
The Fiddler Irish Bar
Website: http://fiddleririshbar.co.nz/
Address: 71 Victoria Street West, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Contact details: +64 9 377 8135
Operating hours: Monday – Wednesday: 2:00 PM – 2:00 AM | Thursday – Saturday: 12:00 PM – 3:00 AM | Sunday: 12:00 PM – 2:00 AM
Price: $
With its cozy traditional décor, The Fiddler Irish Bar brings a slice of Ireland to Auckland Central. We think it’s the friendly atmosphere and traditional Irish vibes that truly define this pub.
You’ll enjoy live music here every single night, which really adds to the whole experience. Local bands are always playing, and well, they truly know how to draw a crowd!
While the food may not be gourmet (but it is traditional Irish cuisine), it’s reasonably priced, serving as the perfect complement to the drinks. And drinks-wise, the bar boasts one of the city’s most impressive selections of Irish whiskeys and beers.
What’s more, The Fiddler manages to retain a distinct Auckland vibe, Especially on its upstairs deck, where patrons can unwind, dine, and take in breathtaking views of the iconic Sky Tower.
No need to worry about making reservations – by the way. The Fiddler usually keeps its doors open until around two or three in the morning!
Father Ted’s Original Irish Pub
– Media by purneshtripathi
Website: http://www.fatherteds.co.nz/
Address: 1 Wellesley Street West, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Contact details: +64 9 377 3142
Operating hours: Sunday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM | Friday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 AM
Price: $
Father Ted’s is the real deal when it comes to authentic Irish pubs in Auckland. This place has it all: delicious food, a great selection of drinks, and live entertainment that’s always on point.
The nights here are always lively and fun, with live music rocking the place seven nights a week. And when it comes to drinks, you’ve got plenty to choose from: Guinness, Kilkenny, and a bunch of tasty New Zealand beers on tap – not to mention a solid selection of spirits and wines.
The food? It hits the spot with classics like fish and chips, nachos, pizza, burgers, chicken wings, curly fries, and many more. The place has a cozy, laid-back vibe. And of course, those old wooden tables and chairs add to the charm.
The Clare Inn
Website: https://www.theclareinn.com/
Address: 274/278 Dominion Road, Mount Eden, Auckland 1024, New Zealand
Contact details: +64 9 623 8233
Operating hours: Tuesday: 4:00 PM – 10:000 PM | Wednesday: 3:00 PM – 11:30 PM | Thursday – Saturday: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM | Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Price: $$
Situated in Mount Eden, this Irish pub is a great spot in the city and will welcome you with open arms any time of day.
Come here for the food and drinks. Their menu is massive, offering everything from snacks to hearty mains like bangers and mash – of course, you can’t miss the desserts and a special menu just for the kids.
What’s cool about the Clare Inn is that you’ll often see real Irish folks stopping by, adding to the vibe like you’re hanging out in a pub back in Ireland. Plus they offer some of the best Guinness around!
But that’s not all – this pub also hosts live music (because, of course, it’s an Irish thing), traditional Irish music, quiz nights, open mic nights, Texas Hold’em Poker, and even their own Darts team events.
And if you’re up for a game, head upstairs to their sweet outdoor area with a pool table and jukebox. Just remember to reserve a table in advance if you plan to visit the Clare Inn. It’s a must!
The Claddagh
Website: http://www.thecladdagh.co.nz/
Address: 372 Broadway, Newmarket, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
Contact details: +64 9 522 4410
Operating hours: Tuesday: 3:00 PM – 10:00 PM | Wednesday: 3:00 PM – 11:30 PM | Thursday: 12:00 PM – 11:30 PM | Friday – Saturday: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM | Sunday: 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Price: $
Proudly labeling itself an Auckland institution, The Claddagh isn’t shy about boasting – and, fortunately, they have the goods to back it up. They have a great new food menu that’s constantly being tweaked and updated based on customer feedback, keeping things fresh.
Plus, there’s something happening pretty much every day to keep you entertained. For instance they have their Wednesday Quiz and live Irish and Kiwi music every Friday to kick off your weekend just right.
Now, if you love having a beer (or if you’re into cocktails) and you’re into sports, this is the place for you. You can catch all the major sporting events here with your pals, thanks to plenty of screens so you never miss any of the action.
But fair warning, it gets packed quickly, so booking a table on their website is a smart move. Or, if you’re up for it, you can even rent out their private function area for a sports night with just your crew.
Murphy’s Law Irish Bar
– Media by sirdavepope
Website: http://www.murphyslawirishbar.co.nz/
Address: 200 Great South Road Drury, Auckland, New Zealand
Contact details: +64 9 294 9054
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:30 AM – 10:00 PM
Price: $$$
At Murphy’s Law Irish Bar, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped right into the heart of the Irish countryside. The bar itself is nestled in a nearly 100-year-old building with a cozy Irish vibe.
Of course, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the craic. It has a cozy ambiance, friendly staff, and an impressive selection of Irish whiskey and beer.
Their hearty food also takes center stage here, even though it can be a bit pricey. From salmon filet to seafood platters and bangers and mash, there’s something for everyone.
But don’t leave without trying their Guinness Pot Pie – it’s the perfect dish for the setting!
And what’s an Irish pub without live music? Murphy’s Law packs every night with live bands, plus their ever-famous Murphy’s Pub Quiz every Tuesday night.
Swing by whenever you fancy (no reservation needed), and who knows, you might even score yourself a loyalty customer card with some sweet deals.
Danny Doolan’s
Website: http://dannydoolans.co.nz/
Address: 204 Quay Street, West, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Contact details: +64 9 358 2554
Operating hours: Sunday – Thursday: 12:00 PM – 2:00 AM | Friday – Saturday: 12:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Price: $$
Right in the heart of the Viaduct Basin, Danny Doolans is the go-to spot for that classic Irish bar vibe when you’re in the mood for a Friday night out.
With over 200 whiskies to choose from, you can transport your taste buds straight to downtown Dublin with one of Danny’s whisky tasting paddles. Plus, they have a great selection of Irish beers on tap, so you’re guaranteed a memorable night at the place.
Let’s not forget the entertainment – there’s plenty to go around, with live music every night of the week belting out anthems to get the whole crowd singing and dancing.
Now, while they’re all about the late-night fun, they take their grubs seriously too. From traditional Irish favorites to hearty classic meals, you’ll find something delicious on the menu all day and into the evening (pro tip: their iconic Sunday Roast is the real highlight!).
Just a heads up before you head over – make sure you’re dressed the part (check out their website for the dress code), and be prepared to pay a cover charge of around $10.
Munster Inn
– Media by mellowyellowmatt
Website: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61554212105143&mibextid=LQQJ4d
Address: 360 Queen Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Contact details: +64 21 445 756
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 AM
Price: $
With specials throughout the week, Munster Inn is a great pub to settle in for a nice meal and a few drinks. But the best thing to do here? Checking out a live game or spending hours chatting over a beer, even until as late as 4 in the morning.
Beers here will set you back around $6 to $10 a pint, with a good variety on tap and in bottles. When it comes to food, expect classics like pizza and burgers, but make sure to swing by on Mondays and Tuesdays for their delectable steak nights.
Live music is on the cards at Munster Inn, but the vibe here is more about laid-back chats than wild parties. Plus, there’s no shortage of games – from pool and darts to foosball and even slot machines.
And don’t miss out on their fun quizzes – they’re a blast!
Dicey Reillys Pub and Eatery
– Media by drpaulsy
Website: https://diceyreillys.co.nz/
Address: 570 Hillsborough Road, Mount Roskill, Auckland 1041, New Zealand
Contact details: +64 9 626 0640
Operating hours: Tuesday – Wednesday: 3:00 PM – 10:00 PM | Thursday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM | Friday – Saturday: 12:00 PM – 11:30 PM | Sunday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Price: $
Dicey Reillys Pub and Eatery is as Irish as it gets. The place is inviting, lively, and has a modern twist while still retaining that traditional feel, with décor that reflects Irish vibes.
And of course, the main attraction doesn’t disappoint. This pub offers a wide range of beers, including Guinness and Kilkenny, alongside great selections of wines, cocktails, and premium spirits.
There’s something for everyone at Dicey Reillys – you can even bring the kids! Here, they have an awesome kids corner decked out with an Xbox One and games to keep the little ones entertained.
The food here is also top-notch and reasonably priced. You can enjoy classic pub fare like pizza and burgers, as well as mains like pork ribs, lamb shank, pan-fried fish, and more.
For the little ones, there are nuggets, fish fingers, and pastas to keep them happy.
All in all, the pub is an ideal spot for a family late lunch or early dinner, with all the amenities of a fully equipped pub that you typically won’t find anywhere else!
Florrie McGreals
Website: http://florriemcgrealsirishpub.co.nz/
Address: 138 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna, Takapuna Beach 0622, New Zealand
Contact details: +64 9 486 6581
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Price: $$
Over the years, Florrie McGreal’s has proudly considered itself one of Auckland’s finest ‘watering holes’. And it seems that reputation holds true for good reason – they have everything you’d expect from an Irish pub!
Swing by every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, and you’ll be treated to live bands belting out tunes that’ll raise the roof. Plus, they mix it up with trivia quizzes and other fun entertainment every so often (just check their website to stay updated on what’s happening).
If you’re a sports fan looking for a spot to hang out, the place has multiple large TV screens showing live sports. They also have 18 pokie machines if that floats your boat better.
You can enjoy all these activities alongside their extensive range of beers, wines, and spirits. Of course, you can also indulge in hearty Irish fare, with old-style pub fish and chips being a local favorite.
And while prices may lean towards the higher side, they’re still pretty affordable, especially for an Auckland beach suburb. After all, the experience is their best selling point.
The Paddington
Website: http://www.thepaddington.co.nz/
Address: 117 Saint Georges Bay Road, Parnell, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
Contact details: +64 9 309 3586
Operating hours: Monday – Friday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM | Saturday – Sunday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Price: $
At The Paddington, they’re all about serving up delicious pub grub. You’ll find favorites like fish and chips, salads, a variety of burgers, and, in the winter, hearty options like a steaming curry or lamb shank.
And, of course, there’s a wide range of beers available, including Irish staples like Guinness and Kilkenny.
The vibe here is all about catching live sports, so if that’s your thing, then The Paddington is the spot to be. Just grab yourself a prime spot in front of the big screen. If you want a bit of activity, why not try your hand at a game of darts or pool?
If sports aren’t really your scene, make sure to drop by on Tuesday evenings for their epic quiz night. Don’t forget about happy hour on Fridays from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM too!
Want to throw a pub-style party? The pub also offers a function venue for rent – just reach out to them to make arrangements.
Barrel Inn
– Media by three_stooges_plus_one
Website: http://www.barrelinn.co.nz/
Address: 15 Cook Street, Cockle Bay, Auckland 2014, New Zealand
Contact details: +64 9 535 5540
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Price: $
This authentic Irish pub really nails the vibe of the Emerald Isle in Auckland – all with its cozy atmosphere, traditional décor, and a great selection of Irish and local drinks.
Just like you’d expect from a good Irish pub, where sports are a big thing, Barrel Inn offers its 8 TVs around the bar covering live sports all the time – think Warriors and NRL games on the big screens.
Thursday nights are steak nights, perfect if you fancy pairing your Guinness with a juicy steak. And if you’re more into a hearty roast with your beer, then Sunday is your day for Roast Special Nights.
But the fun doesn’t stop there – they keep things lively with regular events like quiz nights and live bands.
Doolan Brothers – Ellerslie
– Media by drpaulsy
Website: https://goodspiritshospitality.co.nz/venues/doolan-brothers-ellerslie
Address: 3 Robert Street, Ellerslie, Auckland 1051, New Zealand
Contact details: +64 9 579 5592
Operating hours: Monday – Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM | Thursday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM | Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Price: $
Ellerslie’s Doolan Brothers is the go-to spot for locals craving an authentic Irish bar experience in the area. Here, you can dine, drink, dance, watch sports, or join in on weekly events in their vibrant venue.
And while their impressive selection of beers is definitely a highlight, there’s another deal you won’t want to miss. For just $25, you can grab an ice-cold jug of selected beers, available all day, every day.
When hunger strikes, their refined pub classics (with generous serving sizes) have your back. The pub is worth a visit just to try their famous Doolans’ pies, though they also offer all-day deals throughout the week together with their iconic weekend roast.
For entertainment, live music is a given, but if that’s not enough, you can also try your hand at their pool table and place a bet with your pals. While booking is a smart move since the place fills up quickly, it’s not a must since walk-ins are always welcome.
