McNeills of Howth The Tophouse
A cozy, traditional Irish pub in Howth, famous for its hearty food, friendly service, and authentic atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Less crowded, more relaxed
McNeills of Howth The Tophouse
Best Time
Less crowded, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A cozy, traditional Irish pub in Howth, famous for its hearty food, friendly service, and authentic atmosphere.
"Such a cosy spot with very friendly service! The seafood chowder and fish n chips were both delicious."
🎯 Try the Cottage Pie
Highly recommended for its flavor-packed taste, a perfect Irish comfort food! :forkandknife:
⏰ Arrive early for specials
Popular dishes like seafood platters can sell out, especially after busy Sundays. :alarm_clock:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Traditional Irish Pub Vibe
Experience a cozy, authentic Irish pub with a welcoming atmosphere and a crackling fire.
Delicious Seafood Chowder
A rich and flavorful chowder, often praised as a must-try dish.
Classic Fish and Chips
Perfectly cooked fish and crispy chips, a staple of Irish pub fare.
Live Music & Gigs
Enjoy local music and lively gigs, adding to the vibrant pub atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Cozy Atmosphere
Plan for Popular Dishes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Try the Cottage Pie
Highly recommended for its flavor-packed taste, a perfect Irish comfort food! :forkandknife:
⏰ Arrive early for specials
Popular dishes like seafood platters can sell out, especially after busy Sundays. :alarm_clock:
Howth day trip
🍻 Best Guinness in town?
Many patrons rave about the quality of the Guinness served here. :beer_mug:
🎶 Check for live music
Enjoy local gigs and a vibrant atmosphere, especially during festivals. :musical_note:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Try the Cottage Pie
Highly recommended for its flavor-packed taste, a perfect Irish comfort food! :forkandknife:
⏰ Arrive early for specials
Popular dishes like seafood platters can sell out, especially after busy Sundays. :alarm_clock:
🍻 Best Guinness in town?
Many patrons rave about the quality of the Guinness served here. :beer_mug:
🎶 Check for live music
Enjoy local gigs and a vibrant atmosphere, especially during festivals. :musical_note:
🚶♀️ Perfect post-hike stop
A great place to refuel and relax after exploring Howth's scenic trails. :hiking_boot:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
McNeills of Howth is a highly-rated traditional Irish pub known for its cozy atmosphere, friendly service, and delicious, hearty food. Patrons rave about the seafood chowder, fish and chips, and cottage pie, as well as the excellent Guinness. While service can sometimes be a bit slow during busy periods, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, making it a must-visit in Howth.
"Such a cosy spot with very friendly service! The seafood chowder and fish n chips were both delicious…sadly they were sold out of the seafood platter after a busy Sunday - so we’ll gladly return to try it another evening!"
Theresa Galido
"Food was delicious! We’ve tried Cottage Pie, Seafood Chowder and of course Fish n Chips, the service started good, but later our waiter disappeared, we needed to go to the entrance to ask for drinks, hostess friendly and she brought our drinks.
I’m come back there for the food and local atmosphere!"
Norma Contreras
"Went to a gig during the recent blues festival. Food was excellent. Best Guinness I've had in ages too. Compliments to the bar staff"
Ger Murphy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
McNeills of Howth is easily accessible by public transport. You can take the DART train from Dublin city center to Howth station, and it's a short walk from there. Buses also serve the area.
Parking in Howth can be challenging, especially during peak times. It's recommended to use public transport or be prepared to search for limited street parking.
Many visitors enjoy a scenic cliff walk or exploring Howth Harbour before heading to McNeills for a meal or drink.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While not always strictly necessary, booking a table is recommended, especially for dinner or if you're visiting on a weekend or during a special event.
Opening hours can vary, but typically McNeills of Howth is open daily, with extended hours on weekends. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information.
There is no entry fee to enter McNeills of Howth. You only pay for food and drinks.
For some gigs, especially during festivals, there might be a cover charge or ticket required. It's advisable to check event listings in advance.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The seafood chowder, fish and chips, and cottage pie are consistently praised by visitors. Be aware that popular items can sell out.
While traditional Irish pub fare is meat and fish-heavy, it's worth inquiring about vegetarian or vegan options on the menu, as offerings can change.
Given its location in Howth, a fishing village, the seafood is generally expected to be fresh and of high quality.
Prices are typical for a good quality pub meal in Dublin. Expect main courses to be in the mid-range, offering good value for the quality.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the cozy interior, the traditional bar, and any live music performances. The warm lighting and rustic decor make for great shots.
Absolutely! The dishes are often presented beautifully, making them perfect for food photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to visit during off-peak hours to ensure a more relaxed experience with children. While not a dedicated play area, the pub's laid-back vibe means families can enjoy a meal without feeling out of place. Remember that popular dishes can sell out, so planning your mealtime can help avoid disappointment for everyone.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Day-Trippers
Many hikers specifically mention McNeills as an ideal post-hike destination. The hearty pub fare, such as the cottage pie or fish and chips, provides the energy boost needed after a good walk, and the friendly service adds to the overall positive experience. Don't miss out on trying their highly-rated Guinness!
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Authentic Irish Pub Experience
This pub is more than just a place to eat and drink; it's a social hub. Whether you're catching up with friends, enjoying a quiet pint, or soaking in the local culture, McNeills offers an authentic slice of Irish pub life. The staff, including owners like Stuart Scott, are often praised for their hospitality, contributing significantly to the pub's charm.
Beyond the daily charm, McNeills also hosts live music and gigs, adding an extra layer of vibrancy to its offerings. These events, like those during the blues festival, transform the pub into a lively venue, attracting both locals and tourists looking for entertainment and a great atmosphere.
Culinary Delights: What to Eat
For those seeking hearty comfort food, the cottage pie is a must-try. It's noted for being packed with flavor and is a satisfying meal, especially after a day of walking. However, it's important to note that these popular dishes can sell out, particularly after busy periods like a Sunday lunch service. Visitors are advised to arrive early or be prepared to explore other equally tasty options on the menu.
Beyond these favorites, the pub also serves other classic dishes. The Guinness itself is often lauded, with some patrons claiming it's the best they've had in ages, a testament to proper pouring and fresh ingredients.
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