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The James Joyce Irish Pub venue
Beyoğlu

The James Joyce Irish Pub

Live Music Venues

Opening hoursSun–Thu: 12:00–02:00 · Fri–Sat: 12:00–04:00
Price level$
Entry & reservations
Show details

The pub, terrace and darts areas have no ticket requirement. Walk ins are possible on ordinary days; reserve for derby screenings or larger groups. Entry is for ages 18 and over.

Google rating
4.4 / 5 · 2,789 reviewsGoogle Maps

EDITOR'S REVIEW

Get to know the venue before you go

On Balo Sokak since 1996, The James Joyce is an established Beyoğlu pub combining draft beer, live music, sport screenings, darts and billiards. Locals and international visitors give it a distinctly cosmopolitan feel.

Music & programme

Irish folk, Celtic music, classic rock, indie and acoustic pop feature on stage. Traditional Irish music may appear on Tuesdays and more energetic rock bands on weekends; live rock, salsa nights and sports screenings also vary. Check the day's announcement instead of assuming a fixed weekly program.

Atmosphere

The historic five floor building has dark wood, warm light, a James Joyce bookcase corner and a rooftop terrace. Separate floors let match viewers, games players and live music audiences gather in different areas on the same night.

Concept

A multi floor Irish pub and social setting with a live stage, sport screens, darts, billiards and a terrace in one building.

Guest profile

British and Irish expats in Istanbul, European backpackers, Premier League and Champions League fans, darts players and locals looking for a comfortable İstiklal area pub.

Dress code

Classic pub casual works: jeans, a plain T shirt, sweater and everyday shoes. Formal evening wear is unnecessary.

Customer Review Summary

The James Joyce Irish Pub is a favorite spot for spending extended periods alone or with friends, thanks to its multi-story layout, terrace, and areas for darts and billiards. Live music, sports broadcasts, and a décor filled with books create an authentic pub atmosphere. The beer selection, food—especially the chicken dishes—are generally delicious, and prices are considered reasonable. Most of the staff are attentive and helpful when it comes to organizing events. On the other hand, some visitors found the service slow, the communication rude, and the chairs uncomfortable. There are also a few complaints regarding billing errors. The terrace and game floors are the venue's most frequently praised areas.

WHO IT SUITS

Is this venue right for you?

For draft beer with live rock or Irish folk, darts or billiards, and international sport screenings in a pub.

HIGHLIGHTS

Highlights

Five floors separate billiards, darts, live music and terrace activities. A long history and experienced Guinness service reinforce the pub's identity.

NOTE

Before your visit

Live music, salsa and sport do not necessarily coincide on the same night. As the venue spans several floors, anyone who has difficulty using stairs should ask which seating area is suitable when reserving.

GETTING THERE

Getting to the venue

On Balo Sokak, a two to three minute walk from İstiklal Caddesi and Taksim metro. Drivers can use Tepebaşı parking facilities; the pub has no valet.