McDaids, Dublin

This classic Irish pub on Harry Street was the one time haunt for the nation's 20th-century literary giants: Patrick Kavanagh, Flann O'Brien, J.P. Donleavy, Liam O'Flaherty, Paddy Kavanagh and Brendan Behan. The latter, in particular, was a regular and often entertained the crowd with his vast repertoire. He is also said to have based some of his characters in "The Hostage" and "Borstal Boy" on the publicans he met here. According to Joycean scholars, McDaids also served as the setting for the opening of his story, "Grace".

The place has quite a unique ambiance, with a distinctive Victorian exterior and dimly lit interior, featuring high ceilings and a smattering of chairs and tables. Upon stepping inside, you may find it hard to believe that it was once the City Morgue, later turned into a chapel for the Moravian Brethren, hence the Gothic-style windows and lofty ceilings.

Today, McDaids is known for its jazz and blues music sessions, adding to its cultural allure steeped in literary history. Conveniently located near Grafton Street, it's a perfect retreat after a shopping spree, offering a comforting pint of Guinness, fondly called "plain". Otherwise, if you're planning a party, the room upstairs is just the ticket. Despite being packed on weekends like many popular Irish pubs, this doesn't deter those seeking to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of old literary Dublin.