Ah, May in our beautiful Cork! Isn’t it just a grand time of year? As the weather gets better, you know and we know, it’s time for good beer. May has its own unique charm, a slower, more relaxed pace giving you the opportunity to spend time with your loved ones or friends in our heritage pubs.
And with that grand auld stretch in the evenings, doesn’t it just make you want to gather your crew and head straight for one of our fantastic beer gardens? And where better to soak up those precious extra hours of daylight and good company than in spots like the vibrant Bodega, Bodega has one of the biggest beer gardens in the city, with both indoor and outdoor seating. There are screens everywhere you look so you simply can’t miss the match, did we mention the extensive whiskey menu? It’s also a very decent choice for a spot of breakfast, lunch or dinner. The Vicarstown, Cork Heritage Pubs ode to rock’n’roll and all things new, this is one of those places you don’t want to leave, the beer garden is heated, the pints are cold and Djs are the best in town. Rising Sons Brewery, a stone’s throw away from the Old Town Whiskey Bar, Rising Sons Brewery is another perfect place to watch the match with over 10 tvs, what’s more?.
Corks original pizza and pint deal runs from Sunday to Thursday up until 8PM, 11PM-12AM on Saturdays & Sundays. Oh, those sunny evenings with a perfectly poured pint of Rising Sons finest in your hand, surrounded by the happy buzz of conversation and laughter – that’s the very essence of a good evening spent in our pubs, wouldn’t you agree? It’s the kind of simple pleasure we add to this city that is so special. Did you know Rising Sons Brewery now has Changing Times products on draft, currently stocking After Hours Hazy Pale Ale- a 4.2% ABV- hazy, light coloured with a vibrant hop of aroma, citrus, pineapple & mango. They also have Daydreamer Snappy Lager, 4.2% ABV. Light but malty, with a background of hoppy characters balancing out the grainy sweetness.
Now, while we might be in that lovely, in-between phase, just after the whirlwind of the early spring festivals and just before the big summer shindigs kick off, don’t think for a minute that there’s a shortage of things happening! This time of year often sees a delightful rise in smaller, more intimate local events, the kind that really showcase the heart and soul of Cork. So, do keep a close eye out for announcements from our beloved music hubs like the always-buzzing Crane Lane Theatre, which is open 7 nights a week until late, Crane Lane has constant entertainment, some say it’s the bar that doesn’t sleep in Cork City, live DJs every night and live talent in our infamous theatre as well and the wonderfully cosy Poor Relation. The Poor Relation: Cork city pub with a full Rising Sons Beer Bar, cosy snugs, sports screen, and delicious coffee. Enjoy live music 3+ times weekly and heated outdoor seating on Parnell Place. Experience Cork’s vibrant live music scene – come join us for some of the best live free music in Cork City.Don’t forget Canty’s on Pembroke street, hosting live music 4 nights a week with bands bringing you back to the good old days. We like to say here at Cork Heritage Pubs that Pembroke Street is the heart and soul of Corks music district. All venues consistently have a fantastic stream of interesting gigs, performances, and maybe even a few surprises up their sleeves. You never know what sort of craic you might stumble upon!
Start at El Fenix and make your way down the banks of our own lovely lee, you’ll soon find yourself in the heart of the city where all the fun happens- not sure which pub to check out in the city?. Don’t worry, here’s your map. Let this map be your ultimate guide to all pubs.
You might notice a slight shift in the general atmosphere too. Places like the always-lively Canty’s, with a huge sporting tradition, you’ll never miss the match and the traditionally welcoming Sin É, with their consistent offerings of fantastic Irish trad music twice daily, 7 nights a week And for those times when you’re seeking a quieter pint or just a chat, the uniquely atmospheric Mutton Lane, one of Corks oldest bars, did you know it used to be one of the lanes used to heard to sheep into the English Market or the timeless charm of The Oval with its iconic ceiling of its namesake. They’re the kind of places where conversations flow easily and friendships deepen over a shared drink.
Speaking of places to have a chat, have you checked out the Intermission bar? Open until late Monday to Sunday. Intermission is a monument to the cosy lounge bars of the 1970s, a place you could have a quiet pint after work, have the craic with your friends, read a newspaper, discover the life stories of a stranger or commiserate over life’s misfortunes
Let’s talk about cocktails and food this May. Upstairs, one of Cork’s latest cocktail bars, picture yourself at a boring corporate event, sneak Upstairs to grab a cheeky Margarita, or perhaps savouring a crisp, fruity summer wine perfectly paired with a vibrant dish at the elegant Arthur Maynes. Arthur Maynes is a tastefully refurbed 1820s pharmacy our cabinets are full of old ailments, don’t believe us check it out here! Seeking another fine wine & dining experience, have you checked out our new bar, Old Brennans, situated on Oliver Plunkett Street, the curated menu will leave you salivating while sipping on the perfectly paired glass of vino.
Fancy a gourmet breakfast or brunch? De Calf Cafe has all the classics such as Eggs Benedict, Florentine and Royale. We have the Traditional Full Irish as well. Arthur Maynes as previously mentioned also hosts a beautiful brunch menu, perfect for weekends. If you fancy your brunch al fresco, The Old Town Whiskey Bar at Bodega boasts a huge beer garden and with its unique interior. Old Town Taqueria, our newest cafe, has taken Cork by storm with its huevos rancheros and late night tacos. We’ve made it easy for you and made a breakfast, brunch and lunch blog for you to enjoy, you can find all the cafés locations as well as an updated menu right HERE.
Now, as May unfolds, it also brings with it a special time to acknowledge and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community. While June is traditionally recognized as Pride Month globally, here in Cork, May holds its own significance with LGBTI+ Awareness Week, culminating around IDAHOBIT (International Day Against Homophobia, Lesbophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia) on May 17th. Venues like the Pavilion with events such as The PowerPop Girls hosted by DJs Candy Warhol and Mia Gold. The Crane Lane Theatre and other spaces around the city often host inclusive events that everyone can enjoy. It’s a time to show our support and stand in solidarity, reinforcing that Cork is a welcoming and safe place for everyone. Don’t forget about the Park on Tuckey Street with live Djs and great craic.
Not venturing into the city, have you been into our gem Artys Bar, a pure pint pub, where the craic is always flowing. Live music 3 nights a week and sport all week long.
We hope you all have an a amazing month at Cork Heritage Pubs, don’t forget to reduce your beer miles, drink local and most importantly drink front the source. 90% of our product in Rising Sons Brewery is brewed and consumed within 1km.
