Located in the heart of Dublin, the Dawson Lounge is a unique and compact watering hole that proudly touts itself as “Probably the smallest pub in the world.” With a cozy 350 square feet of space (although, some may argue that claim), it’s a dark subterranean cave that can comfortably accommodate around 30 patrons, pushing it to its limits at 60, although there are claims that the pub has managed to fit 104 people in one Christmas evening as we can see from Ms Norma Desmond’s comment on our Tiktok reel in which she says “My Mam & Dad owned the Dawson Lounge from 1980 to 1987. SO many memories. It’s actually insured for 38 people max (I remember counting 104 one Christmas.”. Accessible by a charming spiral staircase, this establishment is a novelty worth experiencing at least once.
The Dawson Lounge is not your typical pub, and that’s precisely what makes it so intriguing. The novelty factor alone makes it an enjoyable curio for both locals and tourists. However, visiting too frequently might not be advisable you might find yourself developing a Vitamin D deficiency due to the sepulchral lack of natural light.
The dark carpet that lines the floors of this unique establishment seems to have absorbed its fair share of stories over the years. It’s rumored that this was once the go-to spot for RTÉ legends like Eamon Dunphy and Gerry Ryan, who undoubtedly left their mark on this iconic pub.
In a city known for its vibrant and diverse pub scene, the Dawson Lounge stands out as a must-visit destination for those seeking an unconventional drinking experience. Its small size and quirky ambiance create a truly memorable atmosphere that you won’t find anywhere else. So, whether you’re a local looking for a change of pace or a visitor in search of something out of the ordinary, make your way to the Dawson Lounge for a pint-sized adventure that you won’t soon forget.
