Bridget R.
Yelp
I had a friend who used to complain about the quality of bodhrán playing by the live band here. I say, if you have a live bodhrán player in Ringsend to complain about, you're doing pretty well.
When I've got it in me to make the trek across town, The Oarsmen is exactly the pub I want to end my journey in. Pints are cold and service is simple, just the way a proper pub ought to be. Here traditional wood and an absolutely ancient bar give way to sleek uplighting and exposed stone walls at the back.
The toasted cheese sandwiches and baking pizzas on sale during bar hours enhance the experience (although I usually stick to a packet of Kings), especially if your group manages to squeeze into the much coveted front window booth.
The trad band who plays here regularly is made up of a quartet or so of competent muscians. Their music adds to the ambience without being so loud as to drown out conversation. And don't worry, Mr Bodhrán player, I tap my feet to the songs without complaint.
In the afternoons it's quiet and calm, with the whish of outside traffic lulling outside. The smoking area / beer garden at the back is suitably elegant for its setting, and a huge flatscreen at the back of the room keeps footie fans sated as they sip pints.