6 of the Best Pubs with Games in Dublin: Level Up Your Night Out

Looking for pubs with games in Dublin? Are you seeking more than just a Guinness and some friendly conversation? Dublin has an amazing selection of pubs that blend the warmth of Irish hospitality with the excitement of games and entertainment.

This article guide covers everything you are looking for: from classic arcades and board games to pubs with pool, ping pong and more.

Board Games Lovers

If you are a board game lover and want to challenge yourself in strategic and logical board games, here are some good choices for pubs with games in Dublin where you can practise your skills and have fun with your group!

1. The back page

Where: 199 Phibsborough Rd, Dublin 7

Website

The Back Page is a special pub with games in Dublin, especially for board game lovers. They offer you a collection of over 100 board games, meaning you’ll be spoiled for choice. But it’s not just about board games, we are also talking about foosball, darts, a claw machine, WWE superstars, double dragon, mortal kombat, PacMan, guitar hero and many more!

You can participate in their weekly ping pong tournament, challenge a friend to a game of foosball or test your aim with a game of darts. They even have themed quizzes and Formula 1 bingo around the big races. Book now a fun night out or date here!

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2. blackbird

Where: 82-84, Rathmines Rd Lower, Dublin Southside

Website

Located in Rathmines, Blackbird is known for its delicious pizza, craft beer, a lot of board games, and vintage video games. Everything accompanied by a cosy and welcoming atmosphere. As the name suggests, the pub has dark and dim light interiors with a funky, retro vibe.

It’s a great place to hang out with friends and they provide a decent selection of board games to enjoy as a group!

3. board

Where: 29 Clanbrassil Street Upper, Harold’s Cross, Dublin 8

Website

So, if you are a huge fan of chess, you’ve come to the right place. Board organises weekly social chess: every Monday from 7pm. It is a non-alcoholic bar & cafe, so it serves only non-alcoholic drinks while offering you an inviting space for socialising and gaming.

They have 200+ different games and add more every week. You can also buy some of them and bring it home with you!

There’s only one rule, loser buys the next round

– Board Staff

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4. buskers on the ball

Where: 13-17 Fleet St, Temple Bar, Dublin

Website

Buskers on the Ball is one of the best pubs with games in Dublin, a “social interactive sports bar and entertainment venue.” This lively pub is all about bringing people together through games and good times. You’ll find five ping pong tables, four pool tables, an American-style pool table, two shuffleboard tables and two foosball tables.

If you need refreshments, they offer a selection of sleek cocktails, beers and wines. While you eat a slice of pizza you can challenge your group with OutRun, Pacman, Street Fighter or a boxing game!

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5. the giddy dolphin pub

Address: 2-5 Wellington Quay, Temple Bar, Dublin 2

Website

The Giddy Dolphin Pub is really the ideal place for a birthday celebration or any special occasion to share with your loved ones. Here you can find the ultimate game of darts, a tech-driven competitive experience. We are talking about “Flyby Darts”, an interactive tech concept that elevates the traditional game of darts into a memorable and fun activity for players of all skill levels.

The pub also offers you pool and foosball tables. Moreover, some nights you can combine these games or a match at darts with live music that will become the icing on the cake that completes the perfect night out.

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6. shuffleboard bar

Address: Generator Smithfield, Dublin

Website

I highly recommend Shuffleboard Bar in Smithfield, where you can enjoy their variety of games to choose from, such as pool tables, foosball, darts, giant jenga and beer pong! But first, shuffleboard tables of course. Even if you do not consider yourself a seasoned pro at this game, the tables are guaranteed to leave you entertained and wanting more.

Another cool thing that this venue offers you is watching live sports like Premier League, World Cup, F1 and NFL/NBA, Rugby and GAA.  The cheerful and thrilling atmosphere of this pub is second to none.

Tips for a Great Night Out

The main thing I recommend for a great night out is to book seats in advance, especially if specific games require a reservation and have an accessibility time. The other advice is to fully enjoy everything one of these pubs has to offer, from food and wonderful beers (alcoholic or not), to unmissable challenges against your friends. All in the name of competitiveness.

If you are looking for a fun night out with friends, these best pubs with games in Dublin are sure to provide you a memorable experience. Tell me in the comments which one are you going to try!