Brisbane’s Best Irish Pubs To Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day

Don your greenest outfit and prepare for a whole lot of good craic—St. Patrick’s Day is fast approaching. While the big day lands on 17 March this year, Brisbane’s festivities (and the city’s Irish pubs) will be painting the town green all week long.

Once a religious holiday for Ireland’s patron saint, St. Paddy’s Day has evolved into a global celebration of Irish culture. Think parades, lucky clovers and plenty of perfectly poured Guinness. Pull up a stool at Brisbane’s best Irish pubs for a taste of the Emerald Isle all year round. 

Finn McCool's

295 Brunswick Street, Fortitude Valley

Image credit: Finn McCool's | Instagram

For a classic Irish pub experience in the heart of the Valley, Finn McCool’s doesn’t miss. Guinness flows from harp-shaped taps while the menu delivers dependable pub fare—burgers, fish and chips, and a hearty Sunday roast. There’s plenty of spots to sink a pint, with warm timber interiors, a sprawling courtyard and a charming laneway reminiscent of Dublin’s side streets. Add live music and a buzzing dance floor, and you’ve got yourself a cracking night out.  

Gilhooleys

Albert Street and Charlotte Street, Brisbane City

Gilhooleys is one of Brisbane’s most beloved Irish pubs and restaurants. The upbeat, family-owned pub slings hearty portions of Irish-Australian pub staples, such as tender steaks and generous pasta servings, at cosy timber tables. Time your visit right and you’ll catch a show with your dinner, whether it’s Irish dancers or live music that gets your feet tapping. Sundays bring a full Irish breakfast and roasts with enchanting Irish bands that transport you straight to the Emerald Isle. 

Irish Murphy's

175 George Street, Brisbane City

Image credit: Irish Murphy's | Instagram

A long-standing CBD institution, Irish Murphy’s has been hosting Brisbane revellers since 1999. Expect a lively public bar, an expansive menu of pub classics and live music seven nights a week. Whether you check out their gig guide or simply roll in for whatever’s playing (from cover bands to Irish entertainers), the atmosphere is reliably electric. Our insider’s tip? Wear your comfiest shoes, as Murphy’s dance floor rarely stays empty. 

O'Skulligans

105/38 Warner Street, Fortitude Valley

Image credit: O'Skulligans | Instagram

Not your textbook Irish pub, O’Skulligans offers a grungier, hole-in-the-wall alternative. Founded by friends with a serious appreciation for whisky, Skullies feels like your coolest mate’s lounge bar complete with an Irish-influenced punk rock soundtrack. With snug booths, a pool table and a welcoming vibe, it’s an easy spot to drop in for pre-drinks or late-night catch-ups, all while enjoying craft beer, cocktails and pizza by the slice.

The One Mile

28 Logan Road, Woolloongabba

Set within one of Woolloongabba’s striking heritage buildings, The One Mile is where Irish hospitality truly shines. Guinness is poured with precision, while the paddock-to-plate menu champions locally sourced produce and house-made batters, sauces, and condiments. Beyond beer, you’ll find margaritas, a sharp wine list by Thierry Galichet (Montrachet), and interiors that balance exposed brick with elegant heritage details. Plus, The One Mile’s proximity to The Gabba makes it the perfect post-game pub to split the G.  

Finnigans Chin

577 Settlement Road, Keperra

Image credit: Finnigans Chin | Instagram

Finnigans Chin is a relaxed, family-friendly favourite decked out with emerald green shamrock-styled decor. Seating up to 100 people, the northside tavern offers a sports bar, casual bistro dining and a generous open-air beer garden. You can expect all the classic pub staples, while daily specials and regular live music by local artists makes every visit feel like a St. Paddy’s Day celebration.  

Main image credit: Finn McCool's | Instagram