Paris isn’t just about croissants and cathedrals. By night, the city transforms into a lively mix of candlelit bistros, jazz clubs, and hidden bars that feel like they were lifted straight from Dublin or London. If you’re looking for real Guinness, proper pub grub, and the kind of noisy, friendly chaos you’d find in a London pub or an Irish tavern, you don’t need to fly home. Paris has a surprising number of authentic Irish and British pubs-places where the beer is poured right, the jukebox plays The Clash, and strangers become friends by midnight.
What Makes an Irish or British Pub in Paris Real?
Not every place with a Union Jack or a shamrock is an authentic pub. Real Irish and British pubs in Paris aren’t themed restaurants. They’re run by people who grew up in the UK or Ireland, or by passionate expats who’ve spent years perfecting the craft. The key signs? The beer on tap is Guinness, Harp, or a real cask ale like Fuller’s London Pride. The food isn’t just “fish and chips” on a menu-it’s crispy battered cod with mushy peas, or a thick beef and Guinness stew that’s been simmering for hours. And the atmosphere? It’s loud, warm, and slightly messy in the best way.
These pubs don’t cater to tourists. They cater to locals-expats, students, and Parisians who’ve discovered the magic of a properly poured pint and a good chat over a game of darts. The bartenders know your name after two visits. The regulars argue about football without raising their voices. The music isn’t piped in from a playlist-it’s the real deal: Bob Marley, The Pogues, or The Smiths on vinyl.
Top Irish Pubs in Paris
The Irish House on Rue des Martyrs is the oldest Irish pub in Paris, opened in 1992. It’s small, cozy, and smells like woodsmoke and old books. The Guinness here is poured the old-school way-two stages, 119.5 seconds, and a perfect head. They host live trad sessions every Friday night, with fiddles, bodhráns, and a singer who knows every verse of “The Wild Rover.” You’ll find students from Trinity College and retired Brits sharing a table, laughing over a plate of soda bread with Irish cheddar.
Patrick’s Pub in the 10th arrondissement is the go-to spot for rugby fans. The walls are covered in Irish and British team jerseys from the 1980s to today. They show every Six Nations match and World Cup game, and if you’re lucky, you’ll catch the owner, Pat, doing his famous “Guinness shuffle”-a slow, deliberate pour that takes longer than your coffee order but tastes like heaven. Their fish and chips come with a side of tartar sauce made from scratch, and the chips are thick-cut, not soggy.
The Dubliner near Montparnasse has been around since 1998. It’s the only pub in Paris with a real peat fire in the winter. The owner imports his whiskey directly from County Cork, and the selection includes rare single malts you won’t find in any tourist bar. They also serve Irish breakfasts on weekends-bacon, black pudding, eggs, and baked beans-all cooked on a flat iron griddle. It’s not fancy, but it’s the real deal.
Best British Pubs in Paris
The English Pub in the Latin Quarter is the most British of them all. The floor is wooden, the tables are sticky with decades of beer spills, and the bar is lined with over 40 different British ales. They serve real cask ale, conditioned in the cellar and served at cellar temperature-not cold. The staff wear flat caps and call everyone “love.” Their Sunday roast comes with Yorkshire pudding, gravy that’s been simmering since morning, and seasonal vegetables. It’s the only place in Paris where you can get proper Marmite on toast.
The Red Lion in the 11th arrondissement is a hidden gem. It’s tucked away behind a bakery, and you’d miss it if you weren’t looking. The interior looks like a 1970s English pub-dark wood, stained glass, and a dartboard that’s seen more than 10,000 games. They host weekly quiz nights where teams compete for a case of Newcastle Brown Ale. The food is simple: ploughman’s lunch, sausage rolls, and steak and kidney pie. No menus. You just ask what’s on today.
Ye Olde English Pub near Place de la République has been serving real ales since 2001. It’s the only pub in Paris with its own microbrewery, making a porter called “Parisian Stout” that’s won awards in London. They also import British crisps-Salt & Vinegar, Cheese & Onion, and Prawn Cocktail-in bulk. The owner, a former London pub landlord, insists on using only British pub glasses and serving the beer at 12°C. He doesn’t care if you’re French, American, or Australian. If you’re here for the beer, you’re family.
What to Order
Don’t just ask for “a beer.” In these pubs, beer is an experience. Start with a pint of Guinness-it’s not just a drink, it’s a ritual. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a cask ale like Fuller’s London Pride or Samuel Smith’s Nut Brown Ale. They’re served unfiltered and naturally carbonated, with a rich, earthy flavor.
For food, go for the classics: fish and chips (ask for “thick cut chips”), beef and Guinness stew, or a ploughman’s lunch (cheese, pickles, bread, and cold meats). Don’t skip the Irish soda bread-it’s dense, slightly sweet, and perfect with butter. And if you’re there on a Sunday, the roast dinner is non-negotiable.
For drinks beyond beer, try a whiskey neat from the Irish selection-Jameson, Bushmills, or Redbreast. Or go for a gin and tonic with a British gin like Tanqueray or Hendrick’s. Avoid the cocktails. These pubs aren’t mixology bars. They’re about tradition.
When to Go
Weeknights are quiet-perfect if you want to sit by the fire with a book and a pint. Fridays and Saturdays are packed, especially during rugby or football season. If you want the full pub experience, go on a match day. The whole place erupts when the British team scores. You’ll be clapping strangers on the back, singing along to “Sweet Caroline,” and maybe even buying a round for the table next to you.
Don’t go on Monday or Tuesday unless you want to be the only one there. The regulars take those nights off. But if you’re lucky, you might catch a live music night on a Wednesday. Some pubs host acoustic sets or poetry readings. It’s low-key, intimate, and surprisingly moving.
How to Act Like a Local
Here’s the unspoken rule: don’t act like a tourist. Don’t take photos of the sign. Don’t ask for a menu. Don’t order a “beer and a shot.” Don’t ask if they have “something sweet.”
Walk in, stand at the bar, and say, “Pint of Guinness, please.” Wait for the pour. Don’t rush the bartender. They know what they’re doing. If you’re unsure what to order, ask, “What’s good tonight?” Most will point you to their favorite dish or beer.
Tip? Not necessary. These pubs don’t expect it. But if you want to show appreciation, buy a round for the person next to you. It’s the British and Irish way.
And if you’re seated at a table with strangers? Say hello. Ask where they’re from. You’ll likely end up sharing stories, a pint, and maybe even a ride home.
Why These Pubs Matter
These aren’t just bars. They’re lifelines for expats. They’re where British students in Paris find community. They’re where Irish workers celebrate birthdays with a chorus of “The Fields of Athenry.” They’re where Parisians who’ve had enough of wine bars find something real.
There’s a reason these pubs have lasted 20, 30 years. It’s not the decor. It’s not the location. It’s the people. The quiet pride in doing things the right way. The patience in pouring a pint. The willingness to listen to a stranger’s story.
When you leave one of these places, you don’t just feel full. You feel connected.
Are Irish pubs in Paris expensive?
Prices are higher than in London or Dublin, but not outrageous. A pint of Guinness costs €7-€9, and a full meal runs €15-€20. That’s more than a café, but less than a fancy Parisian restaurant. You’re paying for authenticity-not a theme.
Can I get a proper English breakfast in Paris?
Yes, but only at a few pubs. The Dubliner and The English Pub serve full Irish and English breakfasts on weekends. It includes bacon, eggs, black pudding, baked beans, grilled tomatoes, and toast. Skip the hotel buffet-this is the real thing.
Do these pubs accept credit cards?
Most do now, but cash is still preferred. Some smaller pubs, especially on quieter streets, still operate on a cash-only basis. Keep €20-€30 in your pocket when you go out.
Is there a dress code?
No. Jeans, sneakers, or even a hoodie are fine. No one cares what you’re wearing. Just don’t show up in a suit and tie unless you’re going to a special event. These are casual, no-frills places.
Are these pubs safe at night?
Yes. These pubs are well-lit, have regulars who know each other, and are often in busy neighborhoods. Avoid wandering alone after 2 a.m., but inside the pub? You’re in good hands. The staff will even call you a taxi if you need one.
Next time you’re in Paris and craving something real, skip the wine bar. Head to one of these pubs. Pour yourself a pint. Listen to the laughter. Let the music wash over you. You’ll leave with more than a full stomach-you’ll leave with a memory that sticks.
