The Shelbourne Bar Cork
The Shelbourne Bar Cork
4.5
13:00 - 23:30
Monday
13:00 - 23:30
Tuesday
13:00 - 23:30
Wednesday
13:00 - 23:30
Thursday
13:00 - 23:30
Friday
12:30 - 00:30
Saturday
12:30 - 00:30
Sunday
12:30 - 23:00
About
The Shelbourne Bar is an Award Winning Irish Whiskey pub in Cork City nestled in the heart of Cork’s famed Victorian Quarter. We are renowned for our knowledgeable staff, exceptional service, and traditional atmosphere. We also boast a rather impressive collection of Irish Whiskey, with a selection of over 540 different unique bottles. We have expanded The Shelbourne brand beyond the bar and have developed a range of online products and services, including Irish Whiskey Gift Boxes and Online Whiskey Tastings. The Shelbourne Bar Cork has been widely acknowledged as an outstanding bar in Cork and beyond and boasts several awards, including the Gold Medal Best Whiskey Bar in Munster (2016, 2017 and 2019), and the Best Whiskey Bar in Ireland (2018 and 2019 2022 and 2023. In addition, our own Rory McGee is the Guinness World Record Holder in making Irish coffees, having prepared a staggering forty-nine Irish coffees in a mere three minutes (2020).
Suggest edits to improve what we show.
Improve this listingWhat is Travellers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Revenue impacts the experiences featured on this page, learn more.
Top ways to experience nearby attractions
Are you currently on your trip?
Help us find experiences available for you.
The area
Address
Neighbourhood: Montenotte
Reach out directly
Best nearby
We rank these restaurants and attractions by balancing reviews from our members with how close they are to this location.
Restaurants
576 within 5 kms
Attractions
119 within 10 kms
Contribute
Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
We perform checks on reviews.
Tripadvisor’s approach to reviews
Before posting, each Tripadvisor review goes through an automated tracking system, which collects information, answering the following questions: how, what, where and when. If the system detects something that potentially contradicts our community guidelines, the review is not published.
When the system detects a problem, a review may be automatically rejected, sent to the reviewer for validation, or manually reviewed by our team of content specialists, who work 24/7 to maintain the quality of the reviews on our site.
Our team checks each review posted on the site disputed by our community as not meeting our community guidelines.
Learn more about our review moderation.
4.5
267 reviews
Excellent
211
Very good
34
Average
9
Poor
2
Terrible
11
Jake
Cork, Ireland16 contributions
Dec 2022 • Friends
Very Impressed. The selection this place has is second to none, very friendly staff even with how busy the place was during my visit, I’d like to acknowledge Matthew for his lovely service, and I felt as though he went out of his way for me, which was quite nice. I was also very impressed with all the staffs knowledge, they were able to tell me plenty about my drinks. The cocktail selection is very impressive and I cannot recommend enough the Signature Old Fashioned, I’ve never seen one made like this and I really enjoyed it. Brilliant atmosphere and a beautiful bar, top marks!
Written 18 December 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Peter S
1 contribution
Sept 2023 • Friends
We walked into The Shelbourne at about 7:30pm and were greated by Kayleigh who not only sorted us out with a brilliant spot by the bar, but 3 hours of some of the best service you could ask for. On a very busy Saturday evening, she was extremely efficient, but above all else, friendly, warm and accomodating. Everything you could ask for. Thank you!
Written 8 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
HI
Thank you for the lovely review.I will pass on your positive coments to Ceili.
Kind regards
Philip
Written 22 September 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Clare M
Co. Mayo34 contributions
Oct 2023 • Friends
Travelled down from Mayo for the Jazz Festival. Really impressed with the staff in the Shelborne.... efficient and so welcoming! Great service, delicious cocktails....cherry on top was the cheeky wink from dreamy, brown-eyed Tom!! 😉 Seems to be an amazing group or people working there who create such a positive and stress-free atmosphere. Looking forward to visiting again soon! 👍 Thank you!
Written 28 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Padraig M
3 contributions
Nov 2024 • Friends
Had drinks here last for a work night out - lovely spot .
However went to the bar and ordered a round of gin and tonics, specifically asking for Dingle Gin and watched a few minutes later as the guy filled our glasses with Cork Dry Gin , a cheaper gin.
Asked him when he brought the drinks and he swore it was Dingle Gin and my receipt states Dingle Gin ..rather that argue and spoil my night I just took the drinks and went back down to my table but it got the better of me and I spoke to the bar manager who gave me the spiel about “ speaking to the staff member to clarify “..but because I used the word “F**k “ ..ONCE when I initially spoke to him , he chose to make the conversation more about that like he was somehow traumatised by my language and so he chose to deflect from the real issue by hiding behind that …it’s clearly a policy here to serve cheaper Gins later in the night because this barman just works there and to my knowledge should have no vested interest in saving the bar money…like I said it’s a lovely pub and we had a nice time there but this experience left a really sour taste ..
However went to the bar and ordered a round of gin and tonics, specifically asking for Dingle Gin and watched a few minutes later as the guy filled our glasses with Cork Dry Gin , a cheaper gin.
Asked him when he brought the drinks and he swore it was Dingle Gin and my receipt states Dingle Gin ..rather that argue and spoil my night I just took the drinks and went back down to my table but it got the better of me and I spoke to the bar manager who gave me the spiel about “ speaking to the staff member to clarify “..but because I used the word “F**k “ ..ONCE when I initially spoke to him , he chose to make the conversation more about that like he was somehow traumatised by my language and so he chose to deflect from the real issue by hiding behind that …it’s clearly a policy here to serve cheaper Gins later in the night because this barman just works there and to my knowledge should have no vested interest in saving the bar money…like I said it’s a lovely pub and we had a nice time there but this experience left a really sour taste ..
Written 1 December 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Padraig
Thank you for your review, we appreciate it. I have taken my time in responding as I had to gather the facts. Firstly I want to apologize for the fact that you were given the wrong drinks by the bar person. Mistakes happen in hospitality, we are a busy bar , it was probably the last order of the night after a very busy day but again apologies for this mistake.
The manager in question offered to change the drinks or give you a refund which you declined both offers.. There is a difference of opinion regarding the interaction between you and the managers version. I was not there so I will not comment. I am disappointed in your comment that we ''clearly have a policy to serve cheaper gins later in the evening '' As a professional in hospitality for nearly forty years I find your comments so disappointing . For the record the gin you were served was €6.00 and Dingle gin is €6.10. Do you really believe it is my policy to over charge customers by 10 cent? On that note if you still feel aggrieved i am happy to meet you in person and discuss your complaint. Maybe that is what you should have done before posting this review on Google and trip advisor.
Regards
Philip Gillivan - Owner the Shelbourne bar .
Written 6 December 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Ross B
1 contribution
Feb 2024 • Couples
My girlfriend and I are staying the night in Cork city and we decided to go to this bar for a few drinks. When we went in a young bar tender asked what we’d like to order. My girlfriend asked her for a bottle of Corona for myself and a gin for her. She asked me for ID which I happily gave her as I am 23 years of age and my girlfriend is 21. I gave her my passport to which she looked at and continued to keep looking up at me. She then went and asked another girl behind the bar if she thought it was me in the picture. She then returned and asked me for ANOTHER form of ID so I gave her my age card to which she started laughing at and staring at me shaking her head. She then proceeded to ask for ANOTHER form of ID. Everyone around the bar was already commenting as to why she was so unwilling to serve us. I ended up taking my ID back off her as it wasn’t worth the hassle she had already caused. I am disgusted, disappointed and embarrassed to say the least. We planned on staying here for 2/3 hours but in the end, we’re glad we didn’t spend our money somewhere that treats customers like this The outside seating was taken up by people who weren’t even drinking from the bar but they weren’t turned away. Don’t waste your time here!!
Written 16 February 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
HI
I am sorry to read your review.
I take all feedback seriously. If you would like to contact me please email me at info@theshelbournecork.ie
Regards
Philip
Owner
Written 29 February 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Denis M
Dublin, Ireland1 contribution
Jun 2024 • Friends
Traditional pub my eye. We had been there last night for a couple of hours before we started a very low key sing song only to be told to keep it down by one of the bar staff. We weren't dancing on tables or anything like that and a few of the group are quite good singers. Most pubs would be delighted with an impromptu sing song like ours.
Needless to say we moved on. We went to the Cork Arms where we were warmly welcomed by the staff and the locals. We won't be returning to the pretentious Shelbourne anytime soon.
Denis
Needless to say we moved on. We went to the Cork Arms where we were warmly welcomed by the staff and the locals. We won't be returning to the pretentious Shelbourne anytime soon.
Denis
Written 21 June 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Denis
Thank you for your review. I have already recieved a full report from the manager on duty and the female team memeber who was speaking to you and your group. Denis you may have been asked to lower the singing,this was to ensure all the customers in the bar could enjoy thier night also.
I am very happy to meet you one to one in person or a phone call to discuss the complaint you have made.
It is obvious you were upset on the night . I also have a team member who was very upset by the interaction.
I look forward to meeting you or chatting to you when you are ready to dicuss this futher.
Regards
Philip
Owner - The Shelbourne bar.
Written 23 June 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
decay1x
Ratoath, Ireland55 contributions
Feb 2023 • Friends
What a great find this was old style decor with open fire lovely crowd.
Called in here on two occasions one afternoon and one evening, on arrival greeted by staff as if we had been there before and were known.
Staff remembered our drinks when I approached the bar.
Great selection of whiskeys and good knowledge.
Not sure if it was the owner or manager (Mayo man) who went around chatting with people nice touch.
Will call again and again
Called in here on two occasions one afternoon and one evening, on arrival greeted by staff as if we had been there before and were known.
Staff remembered our drinks when I approached the bar.
Great selection of whiskeys and good knowledge.
Not sure if it was the owner or manager (Mayo man) who went around chatting with people nice touch.
Will call again and again
Written 26 February 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello
Thank you for your lovely review.
Apologies for delay in responding .
Best wishes
Philip and the team.
Up Mayo
Written 10 July 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Maryanne G
3 contributions
Mar 2022
After an eight day family trip through Ireland, and many pubs, the Shelbourne Bar is the one we still talk about. We challenged Rory to make us a round of Old Fashioneds and he created the BEST one we’ve ever drank. Later in the evening some ordered a vodka lime juice and again it was not only delicious but unique. This was a wonderful way to spend a Sunday evening. Rory is a mixing genius. Looking forward to returning next time we’re in Cork.
Written 9 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jessenia C
Tampa, FL10 contributions
Dec 2019
This bar has a big selection of whiskey, and you can try flights! This bar is usually busy and is right next to theater. The bartenders are very nice, and they look out for you, so I felt safe going there alone as a girl. They also play sports there, they had American football game when I went on a Sunday night.They don't serve food here but you have the option to order food from the restaurant across the street. I would recommend trying the Powers selection, the signature edition was my favorite.
Written 8 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Martin N
19 contributions
Nov 2023 • Friends
Fine bar located in the city centre . Very efficient staff with a great selection of drinks including gluten free beer . Comfortable surroundings where locals and tourists mingle.The toilets are up a steep stairs and a heated smoking is to the front of the pub . Well worth a visit .
Written 3 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Showing results 1-1 of 1
Revenue impacts the experiences featured on this page, learn more.
*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.
Is this your Tripadvisor listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim your listing