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Dublin

The Church Café Bar in Dublin is praised for its unique setting in a restored 18th-century church, offering a vibrant atmosphere with live traditional Irish music and dancing. Guests appreciate the friendly service, diverse menu with both traditional Irish and international dishes, and the option for private events. Some reviews mention concerns about portion sizes and service during peak times.

The Church Café Bar Dublin Experience Unveiled 

Nestled in the heart of Dublin's North City on Jervis Street, The Church Café Bar is not just another place to eat; it's a captivating fusion of history, architecture, and vibrant Irish culture. This unique venue transforms a grand 1701 church into a stylish café, bar, and restaurant that promises visitors an unforgettable experience steeped in tradition yet buzzing with contemporary charm.

Step inside to admire the spectacular stained glass windows, the original church organ that still resonates, and the warm wood accents that create a cozy yet majestic atmosphere. Spread over three beautifully restored floors, the café-bar's interior weaves together elements of the past with the present, offering a rare glimpse into Dublin's heritage while serving up contemporary Irish hospitality.

Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of architecture, or simply looking for a memorable place to dine, The Church Café Bar invites you to soak in its cathedral-like grandeur while enjoying a casual and lively ambiance.

The menu showcases classic Irish favorites like hearty lamb stew, fresh fish and chips, and indulgent desserts such as apple crisp and cheesecake. Vegetarians will also find inviting options, making it a versatile spot for diverse palates. Pair your meal with a perfectly poured pint of Guinness or choose from an impressive selection of wines and cocktails. The Church Café Bar’s culinary offerings combine quality and authenticity with moderately priced options that appeal to both locals and travelers alike.

Live Irish music and convivial atmosphere

From Monday through Sunday evenings, The Church Café Bar elevates the dining experience with traditional Irish music and lively dancing starting at 6:30pm. Guests can enjoy the vibrant sounds echoing beneath the magnificent stained glass, making it the perfect spot to celebrate special occasions or simply unwind with friends. The spacious gallery offers excellent views of the performances, while the outdoor terrace provides a rare sunny nook to relax in Dublin’s often temperate climate.

What are the opening hours of The Church Café Bar?

 The Church Café Bar is open Monday to Wednesday from 10:30am to 11pm, Thursday from 10:30am to 11:30pm, Friday from 10:30am to 12:30am, Saturday from 10:30am to 1:30am, and Sunday from 11:30am to 11pm.

Is there live music at The Church Café Bar?

 Yes, The Church Café Bar features live traditional Irish music and dancing every evening from 6:30pm.

Does The Church Café Bar accept reservations?

 Yes, reservations are welcome for casual dining, areas for drinks, events, and corporate bookings. Walk-ins are also very welcome.

Visitors consistently praise The Church Café Bar for its enchanting ambiance and authentic Irish experience. Guests love the blend of historical architecture with a lively social scene, calling it a must-visit spot in Dublin. The attentive service, delicious traditional food, and vibrant live music contribute to a welcoming atmosphere that locals and tourists eagerly recommend. Some mention minor service hiccups, but these are overshadowed by the overall charm and uniqueness of the venue.

If you’re exploring Dublin and want to immerse yourself in a place where history, culture, and great food meet, The Church Café Bar should be at the top of your list.

Located at Jervis Street, Dublin 1, Ireland.

Features live traditional Irish music and evening dancing.

Offers indoor dining, outdoor seating, and a welcoming bar experience.

Accepts credit/debit cards and NFC payments.

Europe

Ireland

Nestled in the heart of Dublin, The Church Café Bar is a remarkable transformation of a historic church into a vibrant dining and social hub. With its striking architecture, featuring a stunning stained-glass window and an original organ, this establishment offers a unique atmosphere that blends history with modernity. Visitors are welcomed into a space that feels both grand and intimate, perfect for enjoying a meal or a drink with friends.

The Church Café Bar serves a delightful array of dishes that celebrate Irish cuisine with a contemporary twist. Two standout options include the rich and hearty lamb stew, slow-cooked to perfection, and served with a side of freshly baked soda bread. Another must-try is the classic fish and chips, featuring crispy battered cod paired with golden fries and homemade tartar sauce. Each dish is crafted using locally sourced ingredients, ensuring a fresh and flavorful experience.

One of the most captivating features of The Church is its live music, which adds a lively ambiance to the dining experience. Guests can enjoy traditional Irish music while savoring their meals, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. Additionally, the venue is known for its impressive selection of beers and wines, making it a perfect spot for both casual drinks and special celebrations.

It is renowned for its unique setting in a converted church, live music, and a menu that highlights traditional Irish dishes.

It offers a unique dining experience in a historic setting, making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists.

The Church is conveniently located near popular spots like the Dublin Castle and the River Liffey, making it easy to explore the city.

Whether you're looking to enjoy a meal, sip on a pint, or simply soak in the ambiance of this stunning venue, The Church Café Bar is a destination that promises an unforgettable experience. Don't miss out on the chance to explore this unique blend of history and hospitality in the heart of Dublin.

Sympathetic conversion of imposing church with cafe/bar and Irish restaurant surrounded by terraces.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURueFpmNWNBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJtTOXRIIOZ0gRiLAbrd61jVs/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURueFpmNWNBEAE

Beautiful interior. The waitstaff was a bit off. Stew was delivered without a spoon. Server forgot the wine, then the water. They were not overly busy either.
The food itself was fantastic. Lamb stew and apple crisp for myself and fish & chips and cheesecake for my cousin. It’s a moderately priced restaurant,
Bathrooms are in the basement, so if you have trouble with stairs, be advised.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzaGR1WnJBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJtTOXRIIOZ0gRiLAbrd61jVs/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzaGR1WnJBRRAB

Sheridan was baptized here, Guinness got married here, and we ate here.
The Church Café-Restaurant.

Dublin never ceases to amaze me—you can walk around the same area over and over again and completely miss an entire tower. And then, one day, you realize not only is there a tower, but people actually eat there. Not exactly in the tower, but in its logical extension.

This really was a church, opened way back in 1701. I was drawn in by a menu hanging on the little fence outside: a typical lunch for this area (burgers, sandwiches, fish and chips). I didn’t even notice the building itself at first. And then—what a surprise—a “cathedral-restaurant”! With an organ and a massive stained-glass window by a renowned artist, no less. My husband and I debated whether the organ was just decoration—it turned out to be real. The place was packed, like a cafeteria, and we miraculously found a table, even on a warm terrace, which is an exotic rarity for Ireland.

Despite the scale of the place, it felt surprisingly cozy, mainly thanks to the color and light: wood and stained glass created a vibe like Christmas with a big family around a brightly lit tree. While we waited for our food, I read about the history of the building and the establishment—baptisms, weddings, and funerals of famous Irish figures had all taken place there. Which, incidentally, led me to an off-topic question: there must have been a crypt or burial vault here. So, what happened to it? Turns out, everything was cremated and relocated. The timeline was delicately omitted, but the bar itself only opened relatively recently, in 2005.

Then came a no-less-relevant question about the restroom. I worried it might be down there somewhere. Hallways, stairs, going deeper and deeper—it felt like a torch would light up any moment. And then, there it was—the restroom of restrooms! A vast, spacious area.

On the way out, just a single flight of stairs up, you risk bumping into a waiter carrying dishes from the kitchen. Everything in life is interconnected, after all…
And in this “cathedral-restaurant,” you feel it more than ever. PS. As for food, we ordered from lunch menu. Average and more or less cheap. The place itself is worth visiting!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURueUxyc1BBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJtTOXRIIOZ0gRiLAbrd61jVs/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURueUxyc1BBEAE

Absolutely a beautiful restaurant. Taking an old church and converting it into quite a fancy joint was not something I would have expected to see in Dublin, but I'm happy we did.
The food might be a bit pricey, but the experience itself is amazing. Even if you don't want to eat there around and see what is inside. There are three floors to explore and all of them are lovely to see.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURuM1pUY1VBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJtTOXRIIOZ0gRiLAbrd61jVs/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURuM1pUY1VBEAE

We made reservations for dinner on a Monday night and enjoyed traditional Irish music and dancing as promised! We sat up at the gallery and had great views and ambience. Food and service were delightful. Would definitely recommend a visit for tourists or locals!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNIbkstYWNnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJtTOXRIIOZ0gRiLAbrd61jVs/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNIbkstYWNnEAE

We went here for a few drinks for my friend's Birthday. It's a great bar and restaurant. I love the way this used to be a Church. It's still got the original Church organ on display. It has a great bar too. We didn’t try the food. But I am sure it is very good too. The staff are friendly and it's a nice clean bar. Lots of drinks to have. They do a great pint of Guinness.Would recommend it as a good place to go!

Experience Dublin's The Church Café Bar - Historic Dining & Live Music

St Mary's Church, located at the junction of Mary Street and Jervis Street in Dublin, was completed in 1700 and served as a place of worship until its closure in 1986. After deconsecration, the building was converted into The Church Café Bar, preserving its historical architecture while offering a unique dining and entertainment experience.

The church café bar history and charm in dublin city center.

Nestled in the heart of Dublin's North City on Jervis Street, The Church Café Bar stands as a remarkable fusion of history and modern hospitality. This venue is a sympathetic conversion of a 17th-century church that has been transformed into a vibrant café, late bar, and restaurant, offering visitors a truly unique dining experience steeped in Irish heritage.

A historic landmark reborn as a vibrant dining destination.

Originally opened in 1701 as a church, the building’s transformation into The Church Café Bar in 2005 has preserved much of its original architectural beauty. Diners can enjoy their meals beneath stunning stained-glass windows and beside original wall tablets that whisper tales of centuries past. Adding to the atmosphere is the magnificent original organ crafted by Renatus Harris, which still graces the venue and adds a historic charm rarely found in modern restaurants.

More than a meal: exploring the layers of history inside.

Beyond its culinary offerings, The Church Café Bar invites visitors to explore its historical depths, including the burial crypts nestled within the building. While the crypts themselves have been respectfully relocated and cremated over time, the space remains a poignant reminder of the venue’s sacred origins. This layered history creates an ambiance that is both cozy and awe-inspiring, making it a beloved spot for locals and tourists alike.

 The Church Café Bar began welcoming guests after the thoughtful conversion of the historic 17th-century church into a lively dining and entertainment venue.

 Original stained-glass windows and Renatus Harris’s organ remain prominent features, blending ecclesiastical grandeur with contemporary dining.

 Site of baptisms, weddings, and funerals for notable Irish figures, enriching its story beyond architecture.

Today, The Church Café Bar offers more than just a meal; it’s a lively gathering place where history and hospitality meet. Guests rave about the unique setting that combines original ecclesiastical elements with a warm and vibrant atmosphere. Whether you’re enjoying traditional Irish dishes, attending a live music event, or simply soaking up the stunning interior, this venue delivers a memorable experience that captures the essence of Dublin’s rich past and dynamic present.

 A rare feature that continues to enchant visitors and music lovers alike.

 Artistic masterpieces by renowned artists that fill the space with vibrant light and color.

Rating

Phone Number

Address

Dine In

Outdoor Seating

Live Music

Restroom

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Coffee

Serves Lunch

Serves Dinner

Serves Dessert

Good for Groups

The Church Café Bar is a unique venue in Dublin's North City, housed in a converted church. It offers a blend of traditional Irish cuisine and contemporary dishes, all within a stunning architectural setting featuring stained-glass windows and rustic decor. The bar serves a variety of craft beers and cocktails, making it a vibrant social hub.

The Church Café Bar

A selection of traditional Irish dishes and international favorites.

Fish and Chips

Bacon and Cabbage

Impossible Burger

Caesar Salad

Soup of the Day

Chocolate Brownie

Apple Crumble

Food Menu

Food Menu at The Church Café Bar in Dublin 1, Ireland.

A selection of traditional Irish dishes and international favorites, served in a historic setting.

Kick off your meal with tantalizing starters designed to whet your appetite. The Church Café Bar offers a delightful selection that sets the stage for a memorable dining experience.

: A crispy delight served with spicy buffalo sauce and a creamy blue cheese dip.

: A hearty blend of seasonal vegetables in a rich stock, paired with fresh bread.

For the main course, indulge in a selection of dishes that celebrate the heart and soul of Irish cuisine, promising a satisfying experience for every palate.

: Crispy cod fillet served with chips, malt vinegar, and tartar sauce.

: Perfectly grilled with garlic butter, accompanied by chips and grilled vegetables.

: Slow-cooked lamb with potatoes, carrots, onions, and herbs — a true comfort dish.

Finish off your meal with a sweet note that perfectly complements the rich flavors of your dining experience. Our desserts are the ideal treat!

: A rich chocolate brownie with a creamy peanut butter swirl.

Pair your meal with an extensive drink menu that caters to every taste, featuring delightful options from local beers to elegant wines.

Don't miss out on our daily specials that highlight seasonal ingredients and showcase the creativity of our chefs. Whether you're a local or a visitor, there's always something new to discover! Visit us at the Church Café Bar for a culinary journey in a stunning historical setting.

Discover The Church Café Bar in Dublin’s North City! Enjoy delicious food, vibrant atmosphere, and unique architecture. Visit today!

The Church Café Bar - Unique Dining in Dublin 1

Dublin City Municipality

Enjoy live performances every evening from 6:30pm.

Live Traditional Irish Music and Dancing

Host events for 2 to 1200 guests in unique settings.

Private Event Spaces

Explore the history of the building with a guided tour and enjoy an Irish coffee.

Guided History Tour & Irish Coffee Experience

the church café bar dublin an unforgettable dining experience in a historic setting 

Nestled in the heart of Dublin 1 on Jervis Street, The Church Café Bar offers a mesmerizing blend of history, culture, and contemporary Irish cuisine. This impressive venue is a masterful conversion of an 18th-century church—originally opened in 1701—into a vibrant café, bar, and restaurant. Visitors can marvel at the stunning stained-glass windows and the authentic church organ that still graces the interior, creating an atmosphere that is as much about visual wonder as it is about taste.

a unique venue with rich history and warm ambiance

The Church Café Bar manages to retain its spiritual heritage while offering a lively, cozy dining experience. The interplay of warm wood tones and colorful stained glass evokes a festive, familial vibe reminiscent of Christmas gatherings. Spanning three floors, the space invites exploration—from the bustling main dining hall to the airy terraces perfect for a sunny afternoon. Whether you’re seated near the grand organ or on the terrace soaking up rare Irish sunshine, the ambiance is unforgettable.

The menu at The Church Café Bar showcases traditional Irish dishes alongside contemporary favorites. From hearty lamb stew and classic fish and chips to indulgent desserts like apple crisp and cheesecake, the food is thoughtfully prepared to satisfy diverse palates. Vegetarians are also well catered for, ensuring everyone finds something delicious. Pair your meal with a fine selection of drinks including expertly poured pints of Guinness, a variety of wines, and creative cocktails crafted with care. The bar’s atmosphere is perfect for both casual drinks and festive celebrations.

unmatched live entertainment and event hosting

Every evening from 6:30pm, guests can immerse themselves in the rich sounds of live traditional Irish music and dancing. This vibrant cultural showcase energizes the venue, making it a hotspot for locals and tourists alike who want to experience authentic Irish heritage beyond just food and drink. Additionally, The Church Café Bar offers flexible event hosting options, catering to corporate functions, private parties, and special celebrations. Its dramatic setting and versatile spaces make it ideal for memorable gatherings.

 – Dine in a beautifully restored 1701 church with stained glass and an original organ.

 – Enjoy classic dishes like lamb stew, fish and chips, and delicious desserts.

 – Experience vibrant Irish music and dance every evening from 6:30pm.

 – Host private parties, corporate events, and celebrations in a stunning setting.

 – Enjoy your meal or drinks outside on sunny days, a rare treat in Ireland.

Located in vibrant North City Dublin, this establishment welcomes you for brunch, lunch, and dinner, with a menu rich in variety and quality. The venue accepts reservations and offers paid parking nearby for convenience. While it does not serve breakfast, you can indulge in expertly brewed coffee, an impressive wine list, and specialty cocktails. Note that restrooms are located in the basement, so plan accordingly if stairs are a concern. Dogs are not permitted, but the lively atmosphere and friendly staff make every visit memorable.

experience the church café bar difference

Whether you're a foodie hungry for traditional Irish fare, a music lover craving authentic Celtic tunes, or a traveler seeking a unique Dublin landmark, The Church Café Bar delivers on all fronts. Its harmonious fusion of history, culture, exceptional food, and live entertainment ensures a visit here is not just a meal but a full-bodied experience. Discover why locals and tourists alike recommend this cathedral-turned-restaurant as a must-visit spot for an authentic taste of Dublin's spirit.

County Dublin

Experience The Church Café Bar, a transformed 17th-century church in Dublin 1. Enjoy live music, traditional Irish dishes, and a vibrant atmosphere!

The Church Café Bar | Unique Dining in Dublin 1

Discover live Irish music, and exquisite dining at The Church Café Bar in Dublin. Join us for an unforgettable night of food and fun!

Top Experiences at The Church Café Bar, Dublin

Plan your visit to The Church Café Bar with our insider tips! Enjoy great food, live music, and a unique atmosphere in Dublin's historic venue.

Food Menu at The Church Café Bar in Dublin 1, Ireland. A selection of traditional Irish dishes and international favorites, served in a historic setting.

Starters

Mains

Desserts

Drinks

Specials

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