JD Wetherspoon has spent almost €4 million developing the former HQ Gastro Bar and Nutbutter, in Hanover Quay, at the heart of the Grand Canal Dock district, headquarters of the IT industry in Ireland. Nestled in the heart of this vibrant tech hub, The South Strand promises to be more than just a pub; it’s a celebration of Dublin’s rich history and a testament to its ever-evolving present. In this Ireland travel guide, we’ll take you on a virtual tour of this exciting addition to the Dublin pub scene and share some insights into the area’s fascinating past.
JD Wetherspoon to open a third pub in Dublin city centre on 7 December
The new pub will be called The South Strand. The name refers to the history of its location on the south dock, once a large area of ‘marshland, sprinkled with an occasional apple tree’.
On one of the earliest maps of the city of Dublin, drawn by De Gomme in 1673, there are no buildings marked on the south side of the River Liffey. This marshy riverside area is named on De Gomme’s map as South Strand.
The South Strand pub will occupy a ground-floor and basement area, including an open-gantry kitchen, in South Dock House – a contemporary glass-and-concrete building. It will be typical of the architecture which dominates the redeveloped dock area that is Hanover Quay.
The pub has extensive pavement café-style seating with outdoor seating at the front and side of the premises, overlooking the former docks and Grand Canal.
Craft and World Beers at the South Strand
The new pub will specialise in real ales, as well as craft and world beers, serving a wide range of different draught ales, as well as bottled beers, including those from local and regional brewers.
The interior design will reimagine the industrial history of the docklands without the soot, grime and fire. It will also feature a bespoke carpet that will evoke memories of 19th-century Dublin.
JD Wetherspoon acquired the property in November 2019; it was on the market for €5.5m. Despite having received planning permission for the conversion of the property, the project was put on hold due to Covid-19 restrictions, until recently.
The new outlet will join existing businesses in the Grand Canal Docks area including the Marker Hotel, the Bord Gais Energy Theatre, Mackenzies Restaurant and Brewdog, the craft beer company. The South Strand is expected to create up to 100 new jobs in the area.
The South Strand will be open from 8 am, closing at 11.30 pm Monday to Thursday, 12.30 am on Friday and Saturday and 11 pm on Sunday. Food will be served throughout the day, from opening until 11 p.m., every day. Watch this space next week for an inside tour of the new pub and restaurant.
A Hub of Local Culture
The South Strand’s arrival on the Dublin pub scene is not just about beer and architecture; it’s a celebration of local culture. The Grand Canal Dock district, with its mix of tech giants, cultural hotspots, and bustling restaurants, is a microcosm of Dublin’s diversity. As The South Strand joins this thriving community, it brings with it the promise of becoming a central meeting point for both locals and visitors. It’s a place where stories will be shared, friendships will be forged, and memories will be made.
The South Strand and Sustainability
In a world increasingly conscious of environmental concerns, The South Strand is committed to sustainability. While offering a cosy ambience, it also aims to reduce its carbon footprint. The pub is taking steps to minimize waste, embrace energy-efficient practices, and support local and eco-friendly suppliers. So, when you visit, you’re not only enjoying a pint but contributing to a more sustainable future.
Community Engagement
The South Strand isn’t just a place to unwind after a long day; it’s a platform for community engagement. It plans to host various events, from charity fundraisers to local artist showcases. By actively participating in the local community, The South Strand aims to become more than just a pub; it aspires to be a community cornerstone.
A Taste of Ireland’s Best
While The South Strand offers a wide range of beers, it also celebrates Ireland’s culinary delights. The menu is a journey through the nation’s gastronomic wonders, from hearty traditional dishes to contemporary fusion cuisine. Whether you’re a visitor eager to sample Irish delicacies or a local craving some comfort food, The South Strand’s menu promises a delightful experience.
The South Strand: A Beacon of Hospitality
With its extensive opening hours, The South Strand welcomes early birds for breakfast and caters to night owls with late-night service. It’s more than just a pub; it’s a beacon of hospitality, offering a warm embrace no matter what time of day you choose to visit. The attentive staff is ready to ensure that your experience is nothing short of exceptional.
FAQs: Your Questions, Answered
When will The South Strand open?
The South Strand is set to open its doors on the 7th of December, ushering in a new era of pub culture in Dublin’s Grand Canal Dock district.
What can I expect in terms of the menu?
The South Strand will specialize in real ales, craft beers, and world beers. You can look forward to a diverse selection of draught ales and bottled beers, including offerings from local and regional brewers.
What are the opening hours of The South Strand?
The pub will be open from 8 am, closing at 11.30 pm from Monday to Thursday, 12.30 am on Friday and Saturday, and 11 pm on Sunday. Food will be served throughout the day, ensuring you can enjoy a meal at any time.
A Bright Future for Grand Canal Dock
As The South Strand prepares to open its doors, it joins the ranks of other thriving businesses in the Grand Canal Dock area, such as the Marker Hotel, the Bord Gais Energy Theatre, Mackenzies Restaurant, and Brewdog. This new addition is expected to create up to 100 new jobs, breathing even more life into this bustling tech and cultural hub.
So, mark your calendars for the 7th of December, when The South Strand by JD Wetherspoon welcomes you to a world where history and modernity converge, and every pint is a toast to Dublin’s spirit. Stay tuned for an inside tour of this exciting new pub and restaurant in the coming weeks!
