Clayton Hotel Ballsbridge

You'd be forgiven for walking past this hotel bar, but that would be a mistake. Tucked into the Clayton on Merrion Road, this spot has quietly become one of Ballsbridge's more reliable drinking holes, attracting everyone from embassy staff finishing late meetings to locals who've cottoned on to the surprisingly decent cocktail list. The space itself is sleek without being sterile – think comfortable leather seating and mood lighting that actually works. The barstaff know their way around a proper G&T, and the wine selection goes well beyond the usual suspects. It's particularly handy if you're meeting someone from out of town who's staying nearby, or if you want somewhere civilised for an after-work drink that won't cost you a kidney.