Overview
Fitz’s Pub & Eatery is the pulsating heart of Doolin, a coastal village in North Clare renowned for its traditional Irish music. Nestled within the award‑winning Hotel Doolin – Ireland’s first certified carbon‑neutral hotel – the pub blends a warm, stone‑lined interior with an open fire, creating a welcoming space for locals and travellers alike. Open year‑round, Fitz’s offers a relaxed eatery serving restaurant‑quality seafood, meats, and a thoughtfully curated vegetarian and vegan menu, all sourced from artisan producers within a 90‑mile radius.
History & Background
While the exact founding date of Fitz’s Pub is not listed, its reputation has grown alongside the modern renaissance of Doolin’s music scene. The pub is integral to the Wild Atlantic Session, a nightly showcase that has earned the hashtag #trad365 and draws musicians from across the island. Fitz’s is part of Hotel Doolin, a property that has amassed a suite of sustainability accolades – Greenest Hotel at the Gold Medal Awards, Green Business of the Year 2022, and multiple Tourism & Entertainment Awards. This commitment to the environment extends to the pub’s sourcing policy: 90 % of ingredients are procured from within a 90‑mile radius, including Michael Connell’s lobster, Flaggy Shore oysters, St. Tola’s goat’s cheese, and Burren smoked salmon. Bread is baked on‑site and desserts are crafted daily by an in‑house pastry team, reinforcing the venue’s dedication to fresh, local fare.
Sustainability
Hotel Doolin was the first hotel in Ireland to achieve carbon‑neutral certification. The awards list includes:
- Ireland’s Greenest Hotel (Gold Medal Awards)
- Green Business of the Year 2022
- Best Medium‑Sized Organisation (2018, 2019, 2021, 2022)
- Tourism & Entertainment Award (2015‑2017, 2022)
- Sustainability Team of the Year 2021
Fitz’s Pub mirrors these values: 90 % of its food is sourced from producers within a 90‑mile radius, all bread is baked on the premises, and waste‑reduction practices are embedded in daily operations. Guests can enjoy a meal knowing the carbon footprint is kept to a minimum.
Food & Drink Highlights
House‑brewed Dooliner beers – The pub serves its own Dooliner Red Ale and the newer Dooliner Lager, both made from 100 % Irish ingredients and marketed with a “no hangover” promise.
Whiskey Bible – With more than 100 whiskeys on offer, bartenders can guide you through the collection or suggest a bespoke cocktail.
Locally sourced menu – Signature dishes include:
- Michael Connell’s lobster (served whole or in a buttery sauce)
- Flaggy Shore oysters, shucked on the spot
- Burren smoked salmon salads
- St. Tola’s goat’s cheese tart
- Vegetarian and vegan plates featuring herbs from the hotel’s garden and polytunnel
All desserts are prepared in‑house, and the daily bread is baked in the pub’s own oven.
Live Music & Sessions
Fitz’s is home to the Wild Atlantic Session, a nightly music tradition that runs every day of the year. Musicians gather around the open fire, playing traditional reels, jigs and contemporary folk. The sessions are informal – no reservation is required and seats are taken on a first‑come‑first‑served basis. Follow the pub’s Instagram or Facebook for up‑to‑date line‑ups and special events.
Practical Information
| Service | Details |
|---|---|
| Bar opening | Mon‑Thu 12:00‑23:30, Fri‑Sat 12:00‑00:30, Sun 12:00‑23:00 |
| Kitchen (lunch & dinner) | 12:30‑21:00 |
| Parking | Free on‑site parking for guests |
| Wi‑Fi | Complimentary throughout the hotel and pub |
| Reservations | First‑come‑first‑served; no bookings required for the bar or restaurant |
| Admission | Free – just pay for food & drink |
| Accessibility | Ground‑floor bar and restaurant; wheelchair‑friendly entrance |
Contact & Directions
- Phone: +353 65 707 1111
- Website: Fitz’s Pub & Eatery
- Map: Get Directions
Nearby Attractions
While you’re in Doolin, consider adding these County Clare highlights to your itinerary:
- Aillwee Cave – a spectacular limestone cave with a birds‑of‑prey centre.
- Black Head – lighthouse and coastal loop walk offering dramatic sea views.
- Cliffs of Moher – world‑famous cliffs just a short drive away.
- Aran Islands – ferries depart from Doolin for a day trip to Inis Mór, Inis Meáin and Inis Oírr.
- Burren Way – long‑distance walking route that passes close to Doolin.
Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a food lover, or simply seeking a cosy spot to unwind after exploring the surrounding landscape, Fitz’s Pub offers an authentic slice of Irish hospitality.