136) The Bowery of Lower Rathmines Road, D6

This new late-opening pub is often a last chance at a pint for those unable to walk to Portobello as it allows (indeed welcomes) late callers (though more towards the week's end). As black as pitch, there isn’t a window to wave through, save one upstairs, a big bending bay window at the front – the prized seat with a view of Rathmines Road. A strong maritime theme with wooden décor inside and out – and when imbibing one can feel as though down in the bowels of a boat. One thinks of Brody, Hooper and Quint. Music gigs and poetry readings happen with some regularity.

Sam Coll was once propositioned by a mature lady to guess her age and in so doing was handsomely remunerated. Barmaid Rosie is pleasant enough and shows great dexterity in scrambling up a ladder to obtain the spirits stored on the highest shelf. Another regular is a certain Michael, ruddy and doddery, a former security guard at the National Gallery now much given to amateur drama (taken up on the advice of his counsellor). A friendly man with a great memory for a face, but couldn't recollect your name to save his life. 

UPDATE: As of October 2019, the Bowery has been put up for market. Check for it on Google Maps now, and the disclaimer says it all: PERMANENTLY CLOSED.

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