The Laurels in Clondalkin, Dublin 22 is celebrating being named National Pub of the Year at the Irish Pub Awards 2025.
A cornerstone of the Clondalkin community for generations, The Laurels is renowned for its warm hospitality, quality food, and vibrant atmosphere. Under the ownership of Louis Fitzgerald and led by an experienced team the pub has become a cherished “home from home” for locals. Its commitment to community shines through initiatives like the Laurels Cycle Crew, which has raised nearly €1.4 million for charity through events such as the Santa Cycle and Galway to Dublin Cycle.
There were winners from across Ireland on a fantastic night for the pub trade. Cork, Kerry, Leitrim and Galway were among the counties celebrating big wins in the various categories.
The Irish Pub Awards ten category winners are:
- Best Food Pub sponsored by Musgrave MarketPlace: The Lobster, Waterville, Co. Kerry
- Best Tourist Pub sponsored by Fáilte Ireland: Taaffes Bar, Galway City
- Innovative Pub of the Year sponsored by BOI Payment Acceptance: Nevins Newfield Inn, Mulranny, Co. Mayo
- Best Local Pub sponsored by Diageo Ireland: The Laurels, Clondalkin, Dublin 22
- Outstanding Customer Service sponsored by Edward Dillon: The Blackrock, Blackrock, Co. Dublin
- Best Music Pub sponsored by IMRO: 4 Dame Lane, Dublin 2
- Best Outdoor Space sponsored by Bulmers: Mazlards Pub, Stoneyford, Co. Kilkenny
- Best Digital Innovator sponsored by Heineken: Biddy O’Dowd’s, Athlone, Co. Westmeath
- Best Late-Night Bar sponsored by Irish Distillers Pernod Ricard: Dwyers of Cork, Cork City
- Best Match Day Pub, sponsored by Carling: McHughs Bar, Carrick-on-Shannon, Co. Leitrim
Speaking at the Irish Pub Awards, Michael O’Donovan, President of the Vintners’ Federation of Ireland (VFI), said:
“The Irish Pub Awards continue to showcase the outstanding quality, creativity, and community spirit that define our trade. This year’s winners represent the very best of Irish hospitality, pubs that combine tradition with innovation while remaining at the heart of their communities. At a time when trading conditions are challenging, these awards are a timely reminder of the resilience, professionalism and passion that make our pubs world-renowned. Congratulations to all our winners and finalists who exemplify what makes our sector so special.”
Tom Cleary, Chair of the Licensed Vintners Association (LVA), praised the continued success of the Irish Pub Awards, stating: “The Irish Pub Awards have become the benchmark for excellence in the pub industry, with participation increasing steadily each year. Beyond the recognition, the programme offers finalists invaluable business support through tailored management training, helping them strengthen their operations. The awards enjoy widespread media coverage at both national and local levels, and have grown into a powerful platform that celebrates the essential role pubs play in Irish business, community life, and tourism. We’re proud to see how the initiative continues to elevate and showcase the very best of Irish hospitality.”
Partners to The Irish Pub Awards are Media partner, Irish Independent and Trade Media Partner, Drinks Industry Ireland.
