Something A Little Different in Dublin

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By Marcus Sanigar Food, Drink & Events Copywriter, DesignMyNight 10-year hospitality, travel and events expert, writing for Expedia, Trainline and more. Last updated on 17th March 2026

Do you champion the unique? Are you more than just a fan of the weird and the wonderful? Then this is likely to be the list for you. We're here to show you what the quirky pockets of our city; from cocktail bars serving up flavours in freaky tankards, to restaurants with retro themes, check out our guide to something a little different in Dublin.




The Back Page

Ready for an alternative night that's all fun and no fuss? Head to The Back Page for arcade games, foosball, and a chill vibe. This lively sports bar has a karaoke room for your inner pop star, a dart room for some friendly competition, and a pizzeria that serves up delicious slices like the Antonio Cassano (semi-sundried tomatoes on a white base) and the Katie Taylor with double pepperoni. And if that's not enough, Monday's Fifa challenges, Tuesday's chess battles, and Thursday's hot wings and ping pong matches will keep the good times rolling.

Flight Club Dublin Brunch Social

@ Flight Club Dublin on Various dates from Sunday 22nd March 2026

Flight Club Dublin's Brunch Social offers the perfect trio: unlimited pizza, your own bottle of prosecco, and a high-energy game of social darts. With a lively fairground theme and plenty of laughs, it's the ultimate weekend plan for just €40 per person. Grab your tickets now so you don't miss out on all the fun. 

Lundys Foot

Skip the usual bar crawl and head to Lundy Foot for an Irish pub experience with extra flair.

Between the Secret Late Bar, live music, and weekend Irish dancing shows, it's a venue that has a lot to offer. Grab a craft beer, settle in for a modern twist on classic pub grub, and enjoy an evening full of fun.

In Stitches Comedy Club Sundays

@ Peadar Kearneys on Every Sunday

Mix it up on your next night out with a trip to In Stitches Comedy Club. The basement of Peadar Kearney's Pub is transformed with each show into a den of nonstop laughter and wall to wall craic.

Expect your sides to split with sets from the very best up and comers and established touring acts. Tickets to these epic nights of entertainment start from just €14.30.

  • Comedy
  • Tickets from €11.00 - €65.75

Mary's Bar & Hardware Shop

There are so many unique pubs in Dublin to choose from, so how do you whittle it down to just one? Easy, you pick the weirdest. A bar brimming with knick knacks and vintage wares, not only is Mary's Bar a functioning hardware shop, it's full of great bevs to boot.

9 Below

Slinky and sophisticated, 9 Below will have you taking your drinking habits to a subterranean level as this glamorous basement bar promises some of the most unique and high end cocktails in the business. Perfect for those looking for quirky date night ideas in Dublin.

Riot

Get wild with Riot, a quirky dive bar in Dublin that knows how to throw a hedonistic party. Not only are there arcade games and regular nights brimming with live music, this rough and ready spot is perfect for an affordable cocktail or an exciting IPA to keep you fuelled.

Buskers On The Ball

If you fancy not only visiting somewhere different, but doing something different, why not try your hand at ping pong at this quirky bar in Dublin? Coming at you with premium tables and pool to boot, Buskers on the Ball promises a night of drinks and entertainment alike.

The Gin Palace

If you think it don't mean a thing unless it's swimming in gin, there's a unique bar in Dublin that would likely agree. Boasting their own gin club alongside regal interiors, the bar prides itself on providing a truly sublime drinking experience which makes The Gin Palace is a sight to behold.

Amy Austin

Within Drury Street Car Park, Amy Austin is a quirky wine bar offering a wide range of wines on tap and by the glass, bottle or carafe. Founded by the team behind 777, the city-centre spot has got plenty of space for Dublin's imbibers... and even happens to be dog-friendly.

Bison Bar

Craving the great tastes of America? Bison Bar is the bar for you. Combining BBQ treats served straight off the grill with the largest selection of whiskies in Ireland, it'll make you feel like you've been transported across the pond with its succulent steaks and mouthwatering smoky brisket. 

Ohana

A tropical-themed paradise adorned with bold prints, botanicals and neon signage, Ohana is the tiki bar putting rum in a new light. With a team that's hoping to one day boast the world's biggest rum collection, this place has plenty of potential for a unique night out in Dublin.