A new city centre bar with a difference has opened its doors to the public today.
The Virgin Mary is one of the world's first alcohol free bars, offering punters the chance to enjoy some tasty beverages that won't get you drunk.
But are Dubliners ready to embrace booze-free nights out?
We took a trip to the bar last night and here's our verdict.
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Yes
Vaughan Yates thinks that the time is right for Dublin’s first no-alcohol bar (The Nun’s Room in Bruff, Limerick claims to have beaten it to the title of Ireland's first by a matter of days). It’s a crazy idea, but it might just work.
The first thing to say is that the place looks fantastic – set on bustling Capel St (“Dublin’s Soho” as co-owner Vaughan has it), the no-nonsense painted sign and large windows have an appealingly old-school feel, and the small room is dominated by a stylish curved bar. You can watch the world go by at the window tables or settle into the cosy snugs down the back.
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“Victorian soda shop” is the design inspiration, and no expense has been spared in realising that vision – my very tasty alcohol-free gin and tonic arrived beautifully garnished in a stunning Waterford Crystal goblet. I suppose they’re banking on fewer breakages than in your average Dublin pub.
Vaughan expects a fair bit of turnover during an evening, as punters call in for a drink or two before moving on – perhaps to the hard stuff at Slattery’s or The Black Sheep a few doors down.
But you can imagine it being a hit with health-conscious millennials, non-drinkers, pregnant women, anyone sworn off booze for the month or even your average drinker looking for something a little bit different. Sláinte!
Chris Jones
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No
In spite of the warm welcome from owner Vaughan Yates and his friendly staff and the range of tasty drinks on offer, I'm afraid I remain a little sceptical about the whole idea.
The beers and cocktails on offer certainly hit the mark when it comes to taste and the bar has a warm pub-like feel.
But it remains to be seen whether or not Dubs will take to repeated visits to the venue or will maybe pop in once or twice out of curiosity.
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It is hoped that the unique selling point of offering an admittedly excellent range of alcohol-free drinks but that may not be enough to encourage return visits.
The owners do have plans to bring live music to the venue and that could be an avenue worth exploring.
There would certainly be a market for regular alcohol-free gigs in the city.
I'm not so sure Dublin will embrace regular trips to a bar with no booze but I'll be happy to be proved wrong and see this lovely little venue succeed.
Mark O'Brien
