McDermott’s Pub in Doolin is a place I have been to a handful of times, mainly when the sun is out and I get the feeling for a great pint of Guinness.
If you only have a little bit of time in Doolin and want to check out all of the great Irish pubs, I would suggest starting here and working you way back (responsibly of course) however this idea might be easier said than done. This pub may take ahold of you!
I see this as part of the Doolin Pub Trinity, so honestly you can’t really go wrong. The other pubs are Gus’s and McGann’s.
About McDermott’s Pub in Doolin
A gem in Ireland, this Doolin pub has been Family-run for four generations since 1887, this is one of those rare places that manages to feel traditional but still have moved with the times. You come in for a pint, but you end up staying for the music, the stories, the banter, and possibly the best fish and chips on the west coast – they even won an award for this!
They have been open for over 63000 days.
Played over 7000 Live Irish Music Sessions.
Poured over 1 Million Pints of Guinness.
And possibly the most impressive stat of all, they have only had 25 staff members.
Come for the Guinness, Stay for the Craic
You’ll know you’re in the right place when you enter past the the “WARNING: Nobody Gets Out Sober” sign coupled with their website banner stating “Home of the Best Pint of Guinness in Ireland”. Big claims but having had a few pints in here I would say they are definitely up there!
Inside, McDermott’s Pub has a mix of worn wooden tables, quirky snugs like the “Liars Corner,” and a great outdoor area for those warm day. Plenty of space for bigger groups or to hide away with a book.
Regardless of why you are here, it’s a place where you’ll end up staying longer than you had thought. Is that because it’s great craic or the Guinness is creamy, cold, and consistently class.
Learn more about Guinness over at Stout About Ye!
Food at McDermott’s Pub
The food at McDermott’s doesn’t mess around. There’s something for everyone. This traditional Irish with a bitta’ international flair.
The seafood chowder is rich and comforting (my go to). They have modern hits like Asian-style garlic chilli prawns bringing the heat and surprise. And the fish & chips (voted the best in Ireland). Now I haven’t tried these myself but the last time I was in the fella at the bar beside me was eating them. Big and beer-battered, golden, flaky fish served with mushy peas, tartar, and chip-shop curry – unreal – this part is essential!
There’s also hearty beef stew, and a huge recommendation I have gotten was from Ollie of Ollies Tours who runs food tours in Doolin, the vegetarian fajitas! He swears by them. Maybe after the Doolin Cliff Walk with Ollie the big portions paired with a pint is just what the doctor ordered.
Live Irish Music
Live music kicks off nightly around 8:30 PM and carries on until late. It’s the real trad session deal, locals and travelers shoulder to shoulder, with fiddles flying and bodhráns bouncing. You don’t need a plan here. Just turn up and get swept in.
The musicians aren’t tucked in a corner they’re front and center on a little stage (which to be fair depending on where you are sitting in this ever growing venue could be right beside you or in another room. It’s loud and it’s lively (but if you want to see the musicians best get there early and ask the staff for a table near the music).
Be warned a night here is the kind of night that has you humming a reel on the walk home and a wee sore head in the morning. Worth it though.
Final Thoughts on McDermott’s in Doolin
McDermott’s Pub doesn’t need gimmicks. It’s a pub that’s been doing it right for generations and it shows. Whether you’re after a quiet lunch, a lively night of tunes, or possibly the Best Guinness in Ireland, then this is one of the best spots Doolin.
So come for the food, stay for the music, and raise a glass to the kind of pub that reminds you why Ireland’s pub culture is so loved around the world.
Check out other amazing spots in Doolin to Eat & Drink.
Quick Look
- Address: Toomullin, Doolin, Co. Clare, V95 P285, Ireland
- Food served: 12:00 – 21:30
- Drinks from: 11:00 – Late
- Live Music: 20:30 – Late
- Must-Order: Fish & Chips & Guinness
Check out the McDermott’s Pub Website for more information: HERE