Debruns @ Humes

Let me tell you about Debruns @ Humes in Portlaoise - the kind of pub that turns "just one quick drink" into stories you'll be telling for years. This isn't just another spot on the map; it's where legendary nights are born in the heart of Portlaoise, and believe me, you're going to want in on this.

First things first - they pour what locals swear is the best Guinness in Portlaoise. And let's be honest, in Ireland, that's not just a casual brag - it's practically a royal title. The pitch-perfect pint here is worth crossing county lines for. When you see that creamy head settling just right, you'll understand why regulars get misty-eyed talking about it.

Picture this: You're settled in by the crackling fireplace (yes, an actual, honest-to-goodness fireplace!), the perfect pint in hand, while the warmth of both the fire and the conversation wraps around you like your favorite woolly jumper. It's the kind of cozy you can't Instagram - though Lord knows you'll try.

But don't let the charm fool you into thinking this is just a quiet corner pub. Debruns @ Humes knows how to kick it up several notches when the occasion calls. The function room at the back? It's basically a blank canvas for whatever brand of chaos you're planning - birthdays, engagement parties, or those "just because we're all finally free on the same night" celebrations.

OH. MY. DAYS. The live music nights! When the bands get going, the energy in this place could power half of Portlaoise. The mix of locals and visitors creates this perfect storm of craic that makes you feel like you've stumbled into the best house party in town - except nobody has to clean up afterward!

The staff here? Absolute legends. They've got that magical Irish pub staff superpower of knowing exactly when you need another round, when you're ready to switch to water (bless them), and how to make even first-timers feel like they've been regulars for years. Siobhan and Michael behind the bar are basically social alchemists - turning casual evenings into pure gold.

Speaking of which - the STORIES this place could tell! But what happens at Debruns stays at Debruns (unless it's too good not to share with your WhatsApp group the next morning). The regulars here have elevated banter to an art form, and even the most random Tuesday can turn into an impromptu storytelling session that'll have you canceling your Wednesday morning plans.

Pro tip: Get there early if there's a big match on. The atmosphere during games is electric, and claiming your spot is serious business. The pub fills up faster than a Dublin rental listing, and for good reason - watching sports here is like being at the stadium, except the pints are better and you don't have to queue for the bathroom as long.

Need some insider intel? The sweet spot for arrival is around 8:30 PM on weekend nights - early enough to snag prime real estate, late enough to catch the night's momentum building. And if you're planning anything for the function room, book it way ahead. This isn't just a tip, it's a public service announcement - that space gets snapped up faster than free tickets to Electric Picnic.

Here's the real talk: Portlaoise has its share of great pubs, but Debruns @ Humes is where memories are made. It's where "I'll just pop in for one" becomes "Why is the sun coming up?" It's where strangers become friends, and friends become family. The kind of place that makes you text your mates at midnight saying "GET DOWN HERE NOW!"

Don't be the one hearing about last night at Debruns @ Humes second-hand. Trust me, the stories are better when you're in them. This isn't just a pub - it's your next favorite place in Portlaoise. Get yourself down here and see what the fuss is about. Just don't blame me when you end up making it your second home!