Bars and Cafes in Grafton Street and environs (Dublin)

La Cave Wine Bar

Situated just off Grafton Street, La Cave is Dublin's oldest French wine bar. As one would expect, there's an excellent wine-list and reasonably-priced gourmet food: it's basic bistro style with a truly cosmopolitan ambience. Straight out of a gangster flick, La Cave is all red glowing lights and mellow music, the food is fine, but the atmosphere is the main attraction. Call for timings.

The Old Stand

There has been a pub on the corner of Exchequer Street and St. Andrew's Street since medieval times, but in its more recent history, the Old Stand was frequented by none other than the martyred Irish rebel leader Michael Collins. This traditional Irish establishment is a great hang-out for rugby fans , and it really gets going during international rugby weekends. Food is also served from lunchtime until late.

Kehoe's

Until recently Kehoe's was a family-owned pub which had the landlord living upstairs, "above shop". Now it is under new management, but thankfully, little has changed and the pub's tradition has been preserved. This special little pub is renowned for its cosy snug, found immediately to the left as you enter through the front door. The snug seats twelve - it's ideal for intimate chats - and there's no need to get up and get yourself a drink as you have your own little bell to summon the staff to bring your pints! Kehoe's has a relaxed atmosphere (though it can get a little crowded at the weekend), lovely mahogany interiors and is a good escape from the trendy, noisy establishments elsewhere.

Mc Daid's

McDaids is known amongst the locals as the Brendan Behan, in homage to one of Dublin's best known literary figures. It remains highly popular with both locals and tourists: those who have come in search of the real literary Dublin. As a result, however, McDaids is almost permanently packed, and is often also used for jazz sessions. The inside has high ceilings and the decor is composed of fine, period furniture. Come here to debate moral issues over a pint of draught Guinness.

Neary's

Neary's, just a step off Grafton Street, is a popular haunt with the actors from the Gaiety Theatre - it also happens to have a back door to the same! The pub has both an early evening and late night trade. It's one of the better traditional pubs in the city, boasting a wood-panelled main bar, a small and cosy snug and - surprisingly - a very pink cocktail bar. Thankfully, all the bright colour is confined to upstairs and doesn't interfere with the mellow atmosphere of the main pub. Well worth a visit.

Cafe Java

There are several locations of this great coffee house, although the South Anne Street branch is the best and the most well-located. Both breakfast and lunch menus are tasty and varied. The coffee is good and there is outdoor seating for sunny days. A perfect stopping point during a busy shopping day.

Steps of Rome

Pizza by the slice is still quite a rarity in this part of the world, and the pizza served at Steps of Rome is no ordinary pizza either: it's absolutely delicious. This tiny cafe, just a few steps off Grafton Street, is very popular with all types, particularly local Italians - which is always a good sign. The house wine is excellent, the service friendly, and the coffee's top notch as well. Perfect for day or evening.

Bruxelles

Bruxelles is a dark, loud and often exhilarating bar on two storeys that is frequented by students and ageing rockers who refuse to grow up. It's something of a late-night institution in Dublin and the emphasis is often on music rather than conversation, with the sound system pumping out hard rock, metal and gothic sounds. Weekend jazz sessions, however, are not uncommon. Dress in black and try not to look too intimidated!

Major Tom's

This huge retro style theme bar is somewhat conventional in its music policy, playing mainly chart hits from the 60s, 70s, and 80s, but remains hugely popular, as is evident from the large queues that always appear to be outside the entrance. Located underneath the St Stephen's Green Shopping Centre and opening late until 2.30am, the bar often draws a singles crowd, looking for romance at the weekend. Food is also served until 1.30am.

The International

This well-preserved Victorian pub is an unassuming hive of entertainment in the city centre. The downstairs bar is a fine example of a traditional Dublin pub; small, smoky and with a healthy mix of youngsters and diehard regulars. Upstairs is home to a small venue with a program of comedy, theatre and music. A poster on the outside of the pub will tell you what's on.

Cafe en Seine

Walking into this cafe/bar you cannot help but feel gentrified by the astounding Edwardian décor. The long bar serves anything you might desire including a comprehensive cocktail selection, excellent coffee and stylish food. The whole place feels a bit like a catwalk for models, but if you hold your head high, you should have a great time. The seats outside are great for people-watching on a sunny day.

Brown's Bar

Located in Dublin's finest department store, Brown Thomas, this is the place to relax in the midst of fashion, and have a quick cup of tea to revive yourself. It's also an excellent place to drop off companions who don't have the proper interest in shopping. Foccaccia, Ciabatta, Crostini, soups and salads will pacify any dining palate. Follow your food with a great cappuccino or espresso and enjoy the stylish atmosphere.