In Ireland, the pub is more than just a place to grab a beer—it’s the community living room. Whether you’re there for the music, the chat, or a quiet pint, there are a few “unspoken rules” that will help you blend right in.
The Rule of Rounds
This is the most important social rule in Ireland. If you are drinking in a group, you do not buy your own drinks.
- How it works: One person goes to the bar and buys a drink for everyone in the group (a “round”). When those drinks are nearly finished, the next person buys the next round, and so on.
- The Commitment: If you accept a drink from someone’s round, you are non-verbally agreeing to buy a round for the group later.
- The Tourist Tip: If you’re a light drinker or don’t want to get stuck buying 10 pints for a large group, just say at the start: “I’m going to stick to my own tonight, but thanks!” No one will be offended, and it saves you from a “round” you can’t finish.
Order at the Bar
There is almost no table service in traditional Irish pubs.
- Walk up to the bar to order.
- Pay immediately when the drinks are handed to you (tabs are very rare).
- Once you have your drinks, you carry them back to your table.
The “Guinness” Patience
If you order a Guinness (or any stout), do not expect it immediately.
- The Two-Part Pour: The bartender will fill the glass 3/4 of the way and then set it on the counter to “settle” for about two minutes.
- Don’t touch it: Even if the bartender walks away, do not reach for the glass until they come back to top it off and hand it to you. Waiting is part of the ritual!
Tipping
Tipping culture in Ireland is much more relaxed than in the US.
- At the Bar: You do not need to tip $1 or $2 per drink. If you want to show appreciation for a great bartender, you can leave the small change or say, “And have one for yourself,” which adds the cost of a drink to your total for the bartender to have later.
- At a Table (with food): If you have a full meal with table service, a 10-12% tip is standard.
The “Craic” (Pronounced ‘Crack’)
If someone asks, “How’s the craic?” they aren’t asking about drugs! They’re asking, “What’s the news?” or “How’s the fun?” * Pub Volume: Unlike South Beach clubs, pubs are for conversation. It’s okay to be lively, but try not to be the loudest person in the room. The best “craic” happens when you can actually hear the person next to you.
Closing Time
When the bartender shouts “Last Orders!”, you have about 5-10 minutes to buy your final drink. Shortly after, they will announce “Time, please!”, which means it’s time to finish up and head out.