Promoted in the tourist literature as a "cultural quarter", this area is in reality a honeypot for stags/hens and other tourists. Bars and restaurants generally overpriced and appalling. Mostly avoided by locals.
Updates
As an honorary Dubliner, you Guardian readers should know that Temple Bar is a bit like Times Square - best avoided, but somehow irresistible. It is pretty unauthentic but it is lively. And if interacting with the locals isn't on your list of priorities for the weekend, then it can be good fun. If you want to know where the real craic and music is - go to the area between George's Street and Grafton Street. And for late night pubs, Wexford Street. Whelan's on a Sunday night is a big haunt for those working in bars and clubs at the weekend and really good fun.... enjoy.
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