Shaku Yard: New Contemporary Bar meets Middle Eastern Bites
On September 18th, Babylon Radio was invited to the soft launch of Shaku Yard, a new bar opened by Reo Odirile. The bar offers some of the middle eastern bites that Shaku Yard’s sister restaurant, Shaku Maku, is known for, as well as delicious cocktails and, of course, an extensive beer selection. Shaku Yard is located in the Rathmines, in between Shaku Maku and the old Rathmines fire station.
The Bar
Just a quick walk down the alleyway next to Shaku Maku and you’ll find the Shaku Yard. The outdoor courtyard is very spacious, and has plenty of furniture for guests to relax on. It also allows guests to take a break from the intimate interior, which doubles as a venue for local artists. The interior is beautiful with wood paneling on the walls, exposed stone, and a skylight that illuminates the bar during the day. At night, the string lights and candles make the bar feel cozy and warm.
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Beer and Cocktail Selection
Shaku Yard has an extensive beer and cocktail selection. With a drink menu that ranges from Aperol Spritzes to Espresso Martinis, alcoholic and non-alcoholic options, and a large selection of beer, this bar has something for everybody.
The Espresso Martini, shown below, is on draft and delicious. While I was nervous that pouring it from the draft would sacrifice the quality of the cocktail, I was happily wrong. Made with vodka, coffee liqueur, and a shot of fresh espresso, you cannot beat this classic cocktail.
At the bar, I decided to try their Aperol Spritz. I am not a huge fan of this cocktail, but figured I should give it a try since it is so popular. I am happy to say that this spritz is the best one I have had, and will make me reconsider my go-to cocktail order. It was not too bitter and not too sweet, just right. They make their spritz with Aperol, prosecco, soda water, and orange infusion. If you have been looking to try an Aperol Spritz for the first time, or if you are on the hunt for the best Aperol Spritz in Dublin, you cannot go wrong by stopping at Shaku Yard.
While there, I also tried a half pint of their Guinness. While I do not like stouts and typically never order them at a bar, I knew no Irish bar review would be complete without a Guinness evaluation. I am happy to say the Guinness at Shaku Yard was absolutely delightful: creamy and slightly bitter as it should be. The (half) pint I had here was one of the best I have had in my time in Ireland, and I cannot imagine finding a much better pint in Dublin.
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Food Menu
At the soft opening, they had two hors d’oeuvres going around. The first one that came out was a sort-of bruschetta. It was bread topped with what I think is the Shaku Maku cheese dip, and some chopped up tomatoes. As someone who loves bruschetta, I was not at all disappointed by this dish. The texture of the dip reminded me of hummus, but the flavor was more intense and a little cheesy. I really loved this dish, and it has been living in my head rent free since I tried it, I highly recommend it.
The other hors d’oeuvre they served was chicken wings. They were very well seasoned and cooked. The wings were very juicy and I heard many compliments towards them throughout the night: they were an absolute hit.
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Events
Even before they were opened, Shaku Yard has been a hot spot for local musicians, artists, comedians, art exhibitions, and more. From jam sessions to comedy nights, Shaku Yard has solidified itself as a place to go if you want to see what’s up-and-coming in the Dublin arts scene. While they do not have any other events scheduled right now, I am sure that it’s only a matter of time before they announce their next event.
Overall, Shaku Yard is a gorgeous bar with tasty drinks and food. If you are looking to have a fun night out with good food, drinks, and entertainment, you have to stop in. If you are looking for a good deal, they are offering pizza and a pint for €10. Find them online at https://shakumaku.ie/, or stop in at 192 Rathmines Road Lower. Follow them on Instagram @shakumakuyard.
