Fitzsimons Hotel Temple Bar

We ended up spending over four hours at Fitzsimmons Pub, and it was one of the highlights of our family trip to Dublin. The food was incredible, and Larissa ( from Brazil) was cheerful and attentive. Even though it was busy, she kept our gin and tonics, beers and food coming without us having to flag her down. Jill and I and the kids would recommend Fitz. to friends, and we'd go back. I don't usually write reviews, but wanted to share this. We're back at work in the states now and looking forward to another trip. We first dropped in while walking around and were greeted by great music, friendly people dancing and enjoying themselves. A very personable bartender( lady from Italy) served us drinks, then we sat down for food and music. Dublin itself was a hit with us too: we loved the people, history ( Vikings), music and vibe.

The room was clean and the power shower was superb. The location is excellent, but there's noise, so this may not suit you if you don't like that. For me, it's what you'd expect when staying in Temple Bar.

The place has potential, but it needs better upkeep, including cleaner floors and toilets. The music was very loud, and they seemed to have just discovered the reverb effect and were blasting it across the pub, even at the back. It was impossible to hear your own words. I left unsatisfied.

The food was really nice once I finally got served. I'd come in for a drink and food the day before, but even though I was the only one waiting at the bar, I was ignored. Someone else came up and was served straight away, which annoyed me. I returned in the morning for breakfast and couldn't see any staff at first. A woman eventually came over when I was standing at the bar. I asked about breakfast, and she asked for a number. I didn't know what she meant, so she rudely clarified, “what room number are you in.” I said I wasn't staying at the hotel and had only come for breakfast. She handed me a menu, then walked off. After watching me wait at the bar for a while, she told me we were in the wrong part of the bar when I went over to ask how to order. I considered leaving, but it was the first place we'd found open for breakfast during our 25-minute walk. I'd strongly recommend plenty of other places in Dublin. Everywhere else was a lovely experience.