Ireland - Day 5 (Sunday)

In a city like Dublin, one would think that the city never sleeps but I found that this city sleeps in as most stores didn't open any earlier than 9AM. So we took advantage of this after a busy Saturday as we knew we had a busy day ahead of us. It was a beautiful day with clear, sunny skies a little change from the weather on Saturday!

A trip to Dublin must include a visit to the Jameson Distillery. For one who doesn't enjoy whiskey I'd still recommend making a stop at the Distillery as it's a great time. We enjoyed lunch at the 3rd Still gourmet restaurant - recommend the chili beef (sweet with a bit of a kick at the end) with many napkins and the open crab sandwich.

Tickets can be purchased at the Distillery and we didn't have any issues with long lines but then again it was 12:30 on a Sunday! Jameson was founded in 1780 by John Jameson and is sold all over the world. His family motto was 'Sine Metu' meaning 'Without Fear', which appears today on every bottle of Jameson. From the beginning, John Jameson concentrated on the quality of his whiskey. Jameson was produced on the Dublin site where the visitor center sits today for nearly 200 years.

The tour begins with a video and the tour guide asking for volunteers. If you enjoy whiskey I'd recommend volunteering. Only 8 participants are picked to test three different whiskey's after the tour. The tasting includes Jack Daniels (American, single distilled whiskey), Johnny Walker Black (Scottish, blended whiskey) and Jameson (Irish, triple-distilled whiskey). In trying the three you can tell the difference between single, double and triple distilled whiskey.

Next stop was Ryan's Victorian Bar on Parkgate. The bar is a bit off the beaten path but has an outstanding heritage, character and distinction as one of Dublin's original Victorian pubs. Dating back to 1896, it has seen many famous people including President Clinton, Julia Roberts and many dignitaries have all paid a visit.

Another 'must see' is the Brazen Head, officially Ireland's oldest pub, dating back to 1198. If you are looking for a true Irish experience you must visit Brazen Head. I recommend taking time to absorb the pictures, business cards, first responder badges and notes covering the walls.

Team Cocktail even made the wall!

Next stop was The Palace Bar, a small, yet relaxing atmosphere.

As we rounded out the day we made a stop at Sinnot's Bar, a short walk from our hotel. Sinnot's Bar was one of only the pubs showing NFL games.

We finished our pint only to make our final stop of the night for dinner at Marco Pierre White Steakhouse and Grill. If you are looking for a high-end steakhouse Marco is your place with white tablecloths, elegant lighting, and excellent food and service. We enjoyed a nice 2004 Chateau la Commanderie Saint Emilion - 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc.