Best Irish Coffee in Dublin

There’s nothing quite like the comforting warmth of a well-made Irish coffee with a touch of sugar, a cheeky splash of whisky, and a dreamy layer of cream floating on top. Whether you’re ducking into a cozy pub on a rainy Dublin afternoon or capping off a delicious dinner, there are plenty of great coffee experiences to weave into a Dublin food tour.

In this guide, we’ll take you to the best spots in Dublin for Irish coffee, from classic pours to modern whisky-infused twists. Along the way, we’ll explore the drink’s origins, highlight a few creative variations, and share tips on how to enjoy it like a local.

What Is Irish Coffee? A Classic with a Spirited Twist

The modern incarnation of Irish coffee can trace its aromatic roots back to the 1940s when chef Joe Sheridan first served it to weary travelers at Foynes Airbase. Back then the goal was to simply warm them up on a chilly night. Yet today it’s evolved so much more.

The traditional recipe uses a base of hot black coffee, with a generous pour of Irish whiskey, a spoonful of sugar, typically demerara with rich molasses notes, and a layer of thick cream gently floated on top. The beauty of Irish coffee lies in its balance, which at its best is bold but smooth, sweet yet spirited, with the cream acting as a silky cap you sip the drink through.

While the classic remains a staple, modern creative takes throughout Dublin use an espresso base, spiced syrups, or a dusting of freshly grated nutmeg. So, there’s certainly a lot of fertile ground for exploration.

Where to Get the Best Irish Coffee in Dublin

There are tons of great cafes and coffee houses serving traditional and creative takes on Irish coffee. The following are just some of my personal favorites.

Vice Coffee Inc.

Photo credit: Vice Coffee Inc.

You’ll find Vice Coffee Inc. on Dublin’s Abbey Street, where it is renowned for its award-winning “Frankie” Irish coffee. It features Teeling Small Batch whiskey and a spiced orange cream float.

I think the way they serve it in a classic 6oz Georgian glass is a perfect touch. I found it to be a warm, balanced, and whiskey-driven experience. The ambiance is that of a hip, specialty coffee bar, making it popular with both locals and visitors.

Vice Coffee Inc. (€1–10) – 54 Middle Abbey St, North City, Dublin 1, D01 E2X4, Ireland.

Bang Bang Bar at Teeling Whiskey Distillery

Photo credit: Bang Bang Bar at Teeling Whiskey Distillery

At the Bang Bang Bar inside Teeling Whiskey Distillery, offers a unique take on the classic Irish coffee that they call “The Dublin Coffee.” It’s crafted by exceptional bartenders, this version is perfect for whiskey enthusiasts looking to enjoy their drink in a modern, distillery setting.

I found it to be more of a whisky drink with coffee in it, than a coffee drink with whisky. It’s an interesting way to represent the bold flavors of one of Ireland’s most celebrated drinks.

Teeling Whiskey Distillery (€5–15) – 13-17 Newmarket, The Liberties, Dublin 8, D08 KD91, Ireland.

The Stag’s Head

Photo credit: The Stag’s Head

Nestled in the heart of Dame Street, The Stag’s Head is one of Dublin’s most loved spots for pints, must-try foods, and of course, Irish coffee. This historic pub offers an authentic whiskey experience.

I was impressed by how precise the bartenders were at creating a delicious, creamy glass of Irish coffee. There was a real sense of craftsmanship that you only really find in beverages prepared by true mixologists.

The Stag’s Head (€15–30) – 1 Dame Ct, Dublin, D02 TW84, Ireland.

Unique Irish Coffee Recipes & Modern Variations

Dublin’s baristas and bartenders are reimagining the classic Irish coffee with bold creativity and local flair. At Vice Coffee Inc., you’ll find inventive twists like the “Fancy Frankie,” a cold brew Irish coffee with Teeling Whiskey and spiced orange cream, and the “Plain Jane,” which lets the whiskey shine through a more traditional preparation. Some venues experiment with stout reductions, giving rise to a spiced stout Irish coffee that blends beer and whiskey in unexpected harmony.

Some establishments lean into the café cocktail trend, offering espresso-based versions enhanced with syrups like treacle, toffee, or even salted caramel. A few upscale spots even serve flambéed Irish coffees, adding drama and depth of flavor. Many of these modern interpretations proudly feature Irish-made spirits like Jameson Black Barrel, Kilbeggan, or small-batch Teeling, keeping the heart of the drink authentically local.

The Best Places to Enjoy Irish Coffee in Style

For those looking to savor Irish coffee with a touch of atmosphere, Dublin offers some truly memorable settings. Sip by the fireside in a vintage lounge at The Shelbourne Hotel or enjoy riverside views near the Ha’Penny Bridge at The Merchant’s Arch.

For a cozy yet chic experience, try the Peruke & Periwig cocktail bar which offers antique charm and plush velvet seating. I think it’s the perfect stop to warm up after a winter walking tour. During the summer the rooftop terrace at Sophie’s at The Dean Hotel serves up a wonderful Irish coffee with sweeping skyline views.

Whether it’s a fireside classic or a modern rooftop twist, these stylish venues turn a simple drink into a Dublin memory.

Make It at Home: Irish Coffee DIY

Bringing the warmth of Irish coffee into your home is easy and deeply satisfying.

Start by brewing a fresh cup of strong black coffee, then stir in 1–2 teaspoons of brown sugar until dissolved.
Add a generous shot (about 1.5 oz) of Irish whiskey like Jameson or Teeling and give it a good stir.
Lightly whip fresh cream until thick but pourable, then slowly float it over the back of a spoon onto the coffee’s surface to create that signature creamy layer.
For an extra touch, dust with freshly grated nutmeg or add a hint of chocolate or flavored syrup. Serve in a classic stemmed Georgian-style glass to channel that authentic Irish pub feel.

Final Thoughts: Why Irish Coffee Is a Must-Try in Dublin

Irish coffee isn’t just a warming drink, it’s a quintessential experience held in a warm little glass of Irish hospitality. Whether you’re sipping a traditional version by a crackling fireplace or enjoying a bold, modern twist at a stylish café, Irish coffee is an experience that captures the soul of Dublin.

With the city’s growing love for artisanal coffee and locally distilled whiskey, you’ll find no shortage of spots where both elements are treated with reverence. Don’t leave without trying at least one classic and one creative take on your Dublin food tour.