Mulligans Irish Music Bar

Description

Ah, Mulligans Irish Music Bar in Amsterdam – now there’s a place that’ll make you feel like you’ve stumbled into a little slice of Ireland right in the heart of the Dutch capital. I remember the first time I wandered in, jet-lagged and homesick for a proper pint. Boy, was I in for a treat!

This cozy pub is the real deal, folks. It’s not one of those tacky “Irish” themed bars you find in tourist traps. Nah, Mulligans is the genuine article. The moment you step inside, you’re hit with the warm glow of dark wood, the hum of friendly chatter, and if you’re lucky, the lilting strains of traditional Irish music.

Speaking of music, that’s where Mulligans really shines. The stage might be tiny – “slightly larger than an airmail stamp” as they cheekily put it – but don’t let that fool ya. Some of the most talented musicians from Ireland and beyond have graced that wee stage. I’ve seen fiddlers that could make your heart weep and bodhran players that could get even the stiffest Dutch businessman tapping his feet.

But it’s not just about the music. Mulligans is famous for its Guinness, and let me tell you, it’s not just hype. Some swear it’s the best pint outside of Dublin, and after a few visits, I’m inclined to agree. The bartenders here know their stuff – they pour with the patience and precision of true artists. And these aren’t just any old bartenders, mind you. Many of ’em have been here for years, and they’ve got the stories to prove it.

Now, I must warn you – Mulligans isn’t one of those swanky, polished bars. It’s a proper pub, with all the charm and character that entails. It can get crowded, especially on weekends or when there’s a big match on. But that’s part of the appeal, if you ask me. There’s nothing quite like squeezing in at the bar, pint in hand, surrounded by a motley crew of locals, expats, and curious travelers.

Key Features

Alright, let’s break down what makes Mulligans such a special spot:

1. The Music: This is the heart and soul of Mulligans. Traditional Irish music is the name of the game here, but don’t be surprised if you hear other genres too. The talent that passes through is seriously impressive – from local heroes to internationally renowned artists.

2. The Guinness: I can’t stress this enough – the Guinness here is top-notch. It’s poured with care and served at the perfect temperature. Even if you’re not usually a stout drinker, give it a try. You might just become a convert.

3. The Atmosphere: Mulligans nails that elusive “authentic Irish pub” vibe. It’s warm, it’s welcoming, and it’s got character in spades. The walls are adorned with Irish memorabilia, and there’s always a good buzz about the place.

4. The People: One of my favorite things about Mulligans is the mix of folks you’ll meet. There’s a core group of regulars, sure, but you’re just as likely to strike up a conversation with a visiting musician, a Dutch local, or a backpacker from halfway around the world.

5. Sports on TV: If you’re into GAA, rugby, or football, Mulligans has got you covered. They show matches on their four satellite TVs, and the atmosphere during a big game is electric.

6. The Terrace: Fancy a bit of fresh air? The “Oscar Wilde Courtyard” is a small but charming outdoor space. Perfect for those balmy Amsterdam summer evenings.

7. The Drinks Selection: While Guinness might be the star, Mulligans offers a solid range of other tipples too. There’s a good selection of Irish whiskeys, some tasty Belgian beers on tap, and plenty of other options to keep everyone happy.

8. The Location: Tucked away on a quiet street in the city center, Mulligans is perfectly placed for a pit stop during a day of sightseeing or as a destination in its own right.

Best Time to Visit

Alright, so when’s the best time to experience Mulligans in all its glory? Well, that depends on what you’re after.

If you’re keen to catch some live music (and trust me, you should be), evenings are your best bet. The schedule can be a bit unpredictable, but there’s often something on Thursday through Sunday nights. I’d recommend getting there early if you want a good spot – the place fills up fast when word gets out about a good act.

Now, if you’re more interested in soaking up the atmosphere and maybe having a chat with some locals, try popping in on a weekday afternoon. It’s usually a bit quieter, and you might even snag a seat at the bar. That’s prime time for striking up a conversation with one of the friendly bartenders or a chatty regular.

For sports fans, timing your visit around a big match can be a blast. The energy in the place during an Ireland rugby game or an All-Ireland final is something else. Just be prepared for crowds – and maybe brush up on your GAA rules if you want to fit in with the die-hards.

If you’re visiting Amsterdam in the summer, don’t miss the chance to enjoy a pint in the Oscar Wilde Courtyard. There’s something special about sipping a cold Guinness in the warm Dutch sunshine. It’s a nice change of pace from the cozy interior.

One thing to keep in mind – Mulligans can get pretty busy on Friday and Saturday nights, even when there’s no music on. If you’re not a fan of crowds, you might want to stick to weeknights or earlier in the evening.

Oh, and here’s a pro tip – if you’re jet-lagged and up early, Mulligans opens at 10am every day. There’s something oddly satisfying about having a mid-morning pint in a quiet, freshly-opened pub. Not that I’m speaking from experience or anything…

How to Get There

Finding your way to Mulligans is a breeze, even if you’ve had a pint or two elsewhere first (not that I’m encouraging that, mind you).

The pub is located at Amstel 100, right in the heart of Amsterdam. It’s just a stone’s throw from Rembrandtplein, one of the city’s main squares, so it’s pretty central.

If you’re hoofing it (and Amsterdam is a great city for walking), it’s about a 15-minute stroll from Dam Square. Just head south down Rokin, hang a left on Reguliersbreestraat, and you’ll hit Rembrandtplein. From there, it’s a quick jaunt down Utrechtsestraat and a right turn onto Amstel. You can’t miss it – just look for the green facade and the Guinness sign.

Coming by public transport? No worries, you’ve got options:

1. Tram: The closest tram stop is Keizersgracht, served by lines 4 and 14. From there, it’s a 2-minute walk to Mulligans.

2. Metro: The nearest metro station is Waterlooplein, on lines 51, 53, and 54. It’s about a 5-minute walk from there.

3. Bus: Lines 355 and 361 stop at Muntplein, which is a short walk away.

If you’re cycling (and let’s face it, when in Amsterdam. .. ), there’s usually space to lock up your bike nearby. Just make sure you’ve got a good lock – bike theft is no joke in this city.

For those of you relying on taxis or ride-sharing apps, just punch in the address and you’ll be there in no time. Most drivers will know Mulligans by name, but having the address handy doesn’t hurt.

One word of advice – the streets around Mulligans can get a bit maze-like, especially after dark (or a few pints). It might be worth dropping a pin on your phone’s map app, just in case. Trust me, it’s no fun trying to find your way back to your hotel after closing time, especially if you’ve indulged in a few too many of those perfect pints of Guinness.