The International Bar

The International Bar Dublin: Comedy, Live Music and Victorian Character

A Dublin pub can offer much more than a pint, and The International Bar is a perfect example. Set on Wicklow Street, just off Grafton Street, this family-owned Victorian pub brings together historic surroundings, live comedy, music and simple Irish food in the heart of Dublin city centre.

The International Bar Dublin is particularly famous for its comedy programme, but it is also a welcoming place to stop during a day in the city. Visitors can admire the traditional interior, enjoy a drink or meal, and return later for a show. Its compact performance rooms create the kind of close, lively atmosphere that is difficult to reproduce in a larger venue.

A historic Victorian pub in central Dublin

The International Bar is one of the remaining Victorian pubs in Dublin and has stood at the corner of Wicklow Street and South William Street for more than two centuries. The bar has remained in the same family for over 150 years, giving it a strong sense of continuity in a part of the city that is constantly changing.

Inside, much of the pub's historic character survives. Original features include decorative ceiling work, traditional tiling and a carved wooden bar back. These details give the room a genuine old-Dublin atmosphere without turning it into a museum: it remains a working local pub with a busy programme of entertainment.

Its location also makes it an easy addition to a day in Dublin. Grafton Street is only moments away, while St Stephen's Green, Temple Bar, George's Street Arcade and many of the south city centre's shops and restaurants are within walking distance.

The home of Irish comedy

For many people, The International Bar is inseparable from Dublin comedy. Comedy at the International was established in 1988, and the intimate upstairs room has helped generations of performers develop their material in front of a live audience. Well-known comedians associated with its stage include Ardal O'Hanlon, Tommy Tiernan and Des Bishop.

The Comedy Cellar

The Comedy Cellar at The International Bar is recognised as Ireland's longest-running stand-up comedy club. Founded in 1988 by Ardal O'Hanlon, Barry Murphy and Kevin Gildea, it began as a home for alternative comedy in Dublin. It continues to combine established performers with emerging acts, keeping the original spirit of the room alive.

Comedy throughout the week

Comedy is not limited to a single weekly show. The venue's programme includes The International Comedy Club, Dublin Comedy Improv, Stitches Comedy Club and the Underground Comedy Club, alongside the Comedy Cellar and visiting performers. Depending on the night, audiences may see polished stand-up sets, improvisation, new material or rising comedians testing their work.

Shows are staged in different parts of the building, including the upstairs venue and the basement. The programme changes, so it is worth checking the official comedy schedule and booking ahead for popular weekend performances. Some tickets may also be available at the door, subject to capacity.

Live music at The International Bar

The International is also a useful choice for anyone searching for a Dublin pub with live music. Performances take place in both the main bar and the basement, with a varied programme that can include singers, acoustic sets, jazz and special events. Regular sessions give the pub a lively atmosphere even for visitors who are not attending a ticketed comedy show.

Because the music calendar can change from week to week, check the venue's current listings or social channels before travelling for a particular performer. If you are already nearby, however, the International can be a rewarding place to call into and see what is happening that evening.

Food and drink

The food offering is straightforward and suited to a relaxed pub visit. The menu features traditional Irish beef stew, soup of the day, toasted sandwiches and coffee, giving visitors the option of a simple meal before a show or while exploring the city centre. Food is normally served daily, but serving times and menu items should be confirmed directly with the bar.

The traditional surroundings make it a pleasant setting for a casual drink, whether you are meeting friends, taking a break from shopping around Grafton Street or beginning an evening of comedy and music in Dublin.

Why visit The International Bar Dublin?

• Experience one of Dublin's distinctive surviving Victorian pub interiors.
• See stand-up comedy and improv in an intimate city-centre venue.
• Discover the Comedy Cellar, established in 1988 and recognised as Ireland's oldest comedy club.
• Enjoy regular live music in the main bar or basement.
• Stop for traditional Irish stew, soup or a toasted sandwich.
• Combine the visit with Grafton Street, St Stephen's Green and other central Dublin attractions.

Planning your visit

Address: 23 Wicklow Street, Dublin 2, D02 VH59

Telephone: +353 1 677 9250

Official website: theinternationalbar.com

Comedy programme and tickets: intercomedydublin.com

The bar is close to Grafton Street in Dublin city centre. Allow at least one to two hours for a comedy performance, and arrive early enough to find the correct room and settle in. Always check the current programme, ticket information, food service and opening times before your visit.

Frequently asked questions

Does The International Bar have comedy every night?

The venue advertises comedy seven nights a week across several clubs and formats. The exact line-up and room can change, so check the current online schedule before attending.

Is The International Bar near Grafton Street?

Yes. The pub is at 23 Wicklow Street, just off Grafton Street in Dublin 2, making it convenient for shopping, sightseeing and an evening out in the city centre.

Does The International Bar serve food?

Yes. Its menu includes Irish beef stew, soup, toasted sandwiches and coffee. Menu availability and serving hours may change, so confirm current details with the venue.

Is there live music at The International Bar?

Yes. The bar hosts music in the main room and basement, including regular singers, jazz and other live performances. Check the latest listings if you want to see a specific act.