Best Bets
Best Irish pubs
Fritz Hahn | Updated 10/20/2009
From cozy taverns with the perfect pints of Guinness to bars that pulse with live Irish music, these are the best Irish pubs in the Washington area.
Galway Bay Irish Restaurant
Annapolis, MD
Lacking televisions or live music, cozy Galway Bay lets customers focus on conversation, good Irish food and an outstanding beer selection.
Ireland's Four Courts
Arlington, VA
The Four Courts is a neighborhood bar with live Irish music, a quiz night and friendly bartenders who pour a great pint of Guinness.
Murphy's of Alexandria
Alexandria, VA
A venerable Old Town Alexandria pub known for its live Irish music, pints of Guinness and a lively atmosphere.
O'Faolain's Irish Pub
Sterling, VA
Old world meets modern at O'Faolain's, a stylish restaurant and pub with authentic accents, live music and lots of regulars.
Old Brogue Irish Pub
Great Falls, VA
Nestled in Great Falls is one of the area's best traditional Irish pubs, with loyal crowds and great beers. There's a patio for warm weather and a roaring fireplace to ward off a chill.
Ri-Ra Arlington
Arlington, VA
A spacious (chain) Irish pub, Ri-Ra has live music, good beer, friendly bartenders and a weekly quiz night. Grab a seat in the mezzanine-level balcony for the best people-watching opportunities.
The Dubliner
Washington, DC
One of the area's oldest Irish pubs is a large, comfortable space with two bars, live music and one of the area's best St. Patrick's Day parties.
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