Dublin Bay Irish Pub & Grill

Imagine a cozy corner of Ireland located in the heart of Ames. Dublin Bay Irish Pub & Grill is an authentic establishment in the USA, famous for its homely atmosphere and classic dark wood interior. Here, every visitor feels like a welcome guest, following the venue's main motto: "there are no strangers, only friends you haven't met yet."

This restaurant-pub offers more than just food; it offers a true immersion into tradition. On the menu, you will find legendary dishes such as Shepherd’s Pie, Fish and Chips, and a thick lamb stew. For those looking for something unusual, "Irish nachos" made with waffle fries are available, and the bar menu impresses with a selection of over 45 types of cider, craft beer, and, of course, classic Guinness.

The establishment is a well-deserved favorite of both locals and tourists, as confirmed by the prestigious Travelers' Choice 2020 award. Whether it's a family dinner, a gathering with friends on the summer patio, or an Irish whiskey tasting, this pub provides a sense of warmth and genuine Celtic hospitality.

For those planning a visit or wishing to book a table for a large group, the pub provides several ways to get in touch. You can check the current menu on the official website or contact the staff directly by phone. The team is always ready to help organize your visit or answer questions about current specials.

A visit to Dublin Bay is first and foremost a gastronomic adventure. Be sure to try the traditional Shepherd’s Pie or the tender boxty potato pancakes served with homemade soda bread. For groups, signature appetizers like Buffalo wings or the unique Irish Nachos are perfect. If you stop by on weekdays between 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM, you'll catch Happy Hour with great prices on drinks and appetizers.

Those who enjoy atmospheric evenings should grab a table on the spacious patio, which is considered one of the best in the city for outdoor relaxation. During the summer, live music often plays here, providing the perfect backdrop for a glass of cold cider or a pint of stout. If your visit happens to fall on a Sunday, don't miss the chance to try their famous Bloody Mary at a special price.

For sports fans, the pub becomes a great gathering spot: they broadcast matches for the local Cyclone team, and the atmosphere at these moments becomes truly exciting. And if you're lucky enough to be in Ames on March 17th, prepare for a grand St. Patrick's Day celebration — with early breakfasts, Irish dancers, and the unmistakable sound of bagpipes.

Finding Dublin Bay Irish Pub & Grill is easy: it is located at 320 S 16th St, right near the busy Duff Avenue. If you are driving from the city center, the trip will take no more than 5–10 minutes. Free parking is available directly at the establishment and along the street, making your visit as convenient as possible.

For those who prefer public transport, the Ames Transit Authority bus routes passing along Duff Ave are a good option. From the Iowa State University campus, the pub can be reached in 10–15 minutes by bike or a pleasant walk. The city is quite compact, so taxi services or Uber are also popular and fast ways to get there.

Since its opening in 2001, Dublin Bay Irish Pub & Grill has become an integral part of the city's culinary scene. The founders sought to embody the true Irish philosophy where a pub is not just a restaurant but a hub for the local community. They sincerely believe that "there are no strangers, only friends you haven't met yet."

Over the years, the pub has earned numerous awards and accolades. Since 2014, it has been repeatedly recognized as "Restaurant of the Month" by local publications, and in 2020, it was honored with the prestigious Travelers' Choice award from Tripadvisor. This achievement places the establishment in the top 10% of restaurants worldwide based on guest reviews, confirming the consistently high quality of its cuisine and service.

A particular point of historical pride for the pub is its interior, designed in a classic Old English style with an abundance of dark wood. This creates the atmosphere of an authentic Irish home, where traditions of hospitality are passed down through generations. The annual St. Patrick's Day celebration here is considered one of the largest in the state of Iowa, turning the venue into the epicenter of a cultural festival with bagpipes and folk dancing.

For a standard visit, including a leisurely lunch or dinner, 1–2 hours is usually sufficient. This is enough time to enjoy a main course and appreciate the local hospitality. If you plan to visit with a large group to try various appetizers, desserts, and craft beers on the patio, it is better to set aside 2–3 hours.

On days of major sports broadcasts or during festive events like St. Patrick's Day, guests often spend up to 4 hours or more. The live music and festive atmosphere encourage long conversations, so time flies by on such days.

The establishment is welcoming and open to visitors daily. The standard operating hours for Dublin Bay Irish Pub & Grill are:

• Monday — Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Keep an eye out for special hours: Happy Hour runs on weekdays from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM. On special holidays, such as St. Patrick's Day, the pub opens its doors as early as 6:00 AM, offering guests traditional Irish breakfasts.

A stroll around the pub's surroundings will allow you to better experience the charm of the city and its historical heritage. Interesting locations, from nature areas to historical markers detailing the region's development, are within walking distance or a short drive away.