GOD I love everything about the Roisín! I’m not sure there’s been a single night out in Galway that I haven’t eventually wound up at the doors of the Rois. Speaking of the doors, this place has probably the most sound and wonderful door staff of all time. Seriously, bunch of feckin’ gems. The smoking room is my usual hang(even though only like 2 of my friends smoke), but I’m also no stranger to the dancefloor upstairs, the dancefloor downstairs, the snug by the window, and sometimes even the street for a silent disco! I’ve never been to a proper gig here but I’m hoping to go soon, so I’m sure I’ll update this then. The open mic on sundays is quite brilliant, I’ve heard some great music here and the crowd is incredibly respectful and kind to the performers. I can’t wait to come back to Galway for another night out.
Emily L.
Rating des Ortes: 4 Baltimore, MD
We stopped here for a pint before dinner and loved the atmosphere and service. The bartenders were friendly, kindly allowing me to charge my phone behind the bar and inviting us to their«birthday dinner» later in the evening(the pub turned 11 that night, and they were celebrating with a free barbeque and several live bands.) Compared to most Irish pubs, their beer selection was huge — not only the standard Irish trio(Smithwicks, Carlsberg, Guinness) but also cider, microbrews and a decent number of bottles. They had a full bar as well. We didn’t stay long, but I would love to return, and in fact this place is a big part of the reason we both want to stay longer in Galway on our next Irish voyage!
Desiree A.
Rating des Ortes: 5 North Hollywood, CA
Absolutely LOVE the Roisin Dubh! Silent Disco nights are a blast and I didn’t miss a single Open Mic Night all 4 months I lived in Galway! The performers at Open Mic are incredibly talented and hilarious!
Lauren C.
Rating des Ortes: 1 San Diego, CA
Wouldn’t go here again after the bartender Johnny called me a c*nt…
Tim H.
Rating des Ortes: 4 San Francisco, CA
Awesome venue. I had a blast at the open mic night being the only American to play a song. Sublime’s What I Got to be exact. Friendly crowd and great drinks. I only made it upstairs but the main floor looked a like a great space to make new Irish friends. Check out the Dubh next time you are in Galway. Its just s short walk across the river to the west side of town.
Barbara P.
Rating des Ortes: 4 Madrid, Spain
I love this place! Came here on a Friday night with friends. It did not get crowded till about a little pass midnight. They had music playing downstairs and upstairs. Downstairs was regular pop. Upstairs was old 60’s and 70’s but then it was more rock as the night went on. I love the large space an big women’s bathroom and the mixture of different age groups. There is also a photo booth by the stairs.
Glen M.
Rating des Ortes: 4 London, United Kingdom
fine old pints in a late night setting with decent, if a bit uninspired, music. You’ve got to be looking for a late-ish night and what what they’ve on offer, but you’ll have a grand old time if so. Also, Vinnie’s is right outside if you need a bit of a chipper after you go.
Rónán C.
Rating des Ortes: 3 Dublin, Republic of Ireland
I remember liking the Roisin a lot more than I do now. It’s gotten a bit crusty around the edges; messy and crowded. But I suppose that’s what it’s all about, you go to the Roisin when the pubs close and you don’t want a club. I’ve had some great nights here, but not lately. It’s just a little average these days.
Paul B.
Rating des Ortes: 5 Dublin, Republic of Ireland
I lived in Galway for years, the Roisin Dubh was always a great place to go. Always plenty of music, original musicians, and a friendly place. If you like music, then this is the spot in Galway, always will be too id say… lol
Conor g.
Rating des Ortes: 3 Toronto, Canada
The Roisin dubh used to be a 5⁄5 pub. I really dont like the way they have completely changed it. The old venue at the back used to brilliant for an intimate gig, and the front bar used to be very cosy. Now everything seems to have expanded, and loudened for a sell-out younger crowd, who dont give a shit really. a shame
Jessie M.
Rating des Ortes: 5 Los Angeles, CA
Great venue for everyone. It really does offer something for everyone. I went for a DJ night with Sea Lab being projected onto the walls… but I also went for a great trad concert during the Galway Arts Festival and almost everyone was over 50. The covered roof top area is a nice escape from the heat. A little smoky, but there are places to relax.
Cazz
Rating des Ortes: 5 Galway, Republic of Ireland
This is a great place for live acts. Whatever your taste in music or comedy there is something here for you. Many bands start out here before making it big… some even return after. The cover charge is minimal and you are alway guaranteed a good show. If you are not in the mood for music, you can sit in a comfy corner for a nice quiet pint or a chat with the barman.
Maryan
Rating des Ortes: 4 San Francisco, CA
This place is great to see a show. Its over on the other side of the bridge from High St. Has a great front bar with lots of little coves to get cozy in and then the big suprise is walking into the back and there is a good size stage and a great area to see a live show. Its like two bars in one. When I was last there there was a bitter old man at the bar who kept repeating everything I said but I kind of liked the place more because of it.