Xico
Xico occupies a small space at 3 Harcourt Road, just off the main Harcourt Street strip. The bar focuses on tequila and mezcal, with a collection of over 80 agave spirits that ranks among the best in Ireland. The interior draws on Mexican design elements without descending into caricature: exposed brick, warm lighting, ceramic tiles, and a bar that puts the bottle collection on full display. Capacity is intentionally limited to around 60, creating an intimate setting that contrasts with the high-volume clubs nearby. The cocktail menu changes seasonally, and the bartenders have enough expertise to discuss agave spirit categories, production methods, and flavor profiles. Late-night hours on weekends draw a crowd that arrives after the pubs close, looking for something more considered than a nightclub.
What to Expect
A small, warmly lit bar with a Mexican-influenced aesthetic. The bar counter is the focal point, with bottles lined up behind it. The space fills quickly and gets intimate rather than claustrophobic.
Warm, intimate, and focused. The small size means the energy comes from the people and the drinks rather than the production.
Latin, soul, and funk at background volume. Music supports the atmosphere rather than dominating it.
Smart casual. The space is small and curated enough that very casual dress feels out of place, though there's no enforced code.
Cocktail enthusiasts, tequila and mezcal drinkers, couples, small groups wanting quality over volume
Cards and contactless preferred.
Price Range
Cocktails EUR 14-17, mezcal/tequila EUR 8-16 per pour, beer EUR 7-8
Cocktails ~$15-18/~14-17 EUR, mezcal ~$9-17/~8-16 EUR
Hours
17:00-23:30 Mon-Wed, 17:00-00:30 Thu-Sat, closed Sun
Insider Tip
If you're new to mezcal, ask the bartenders to guide you through a tasting flight. The margaritas are made with fresh lime juice, not sour mix, which makes a noticeable difference. Arrive before 10 PM on weekends to guarantee a seat.
Full Review
Xico is the kind of bar that rewards knowledge and curiosity. The agave spirit collection is the core offering, and the bartenders treat it seriously without being exclusive about it. Walk in knowing nothing about mezcal and they'll walk you through it. Walk in knowing a lot and they'll find something you haven't tried.
The cocktail menu builds on this foundation. Margaritas made with fresh citrus and quality tequila taste different from the sour-mix versions served at higher volume down the street. Seasonal specials incorporate ingredients that make sense with agave spirits: chili, tropical fruits, herbs. The execution is consistent, which is what separates a good cocktail bar from a place that just charges cocktail bar prices.
The space itself works in the bar's favor. With only 60 seats, every visit feels personal. The bar counter is the best seat, where you can watch the bartenders work and have a conversation about what you're drinking. Tables along the walls suit small groups and couples.
Timing matters at Xico. Early evening visits mean empty seats and the bartender's full attention. Post-pub crowds on weekends fill the space and change the dynamic. Both work, but they're different experiences. If cocktail quality and conversation are the priority, go early.
The only real drawback is capacity. On a busy Saturday night, the door may be one-in-one-out, and waits can stretch. This isn't a place for large groups or anyone looking for a big night. It's for people who want a good drink in a good setting.
The Neighborhood
Just off Harcourt Street on Harcourt Road, within easy walking distance of all the Harcourt Street venues. Camden Street and its bar scene are a 3-minute walk west.
Getting There
At 3 Harcourt Road, a side street off Harcourt Street. From the Luas St Stephen's Green stop, walk south along Harcourt Street and turn left onto Harcourt Road. About 4 minutes on foot.
Address
3 Harcourt Road
Other Venues in Harcourt Street
Copper Face Jacks
Ireland's most famous nightclub, operating since 1996 in the basement of the Jackson Court Hotel. Known for GAA players, nurses' nights out, and a meat-market reputation that has become part of Irish pop culture.
Krystle
Upscale nightclub and bar at the Russell Court Hotel with a VIP area, bottle service, and a strict dress code. Attracts a well-dressed crowd and occasionally hosts celebrity appearances.
Diceys
Large, multi-room venue spread across several floors with cheap drinks, student-friendly pricing, and a beer garden. Three different rooms play pop, dance, and indie on any given night.
The Ginger Man
Traditional pub with a quieter atmosphere than the surrounding clubs. Dark wood interior, decent food menu during the day, and a crowd that skews slightly older than the student-dominated venues nearby.