Dublin does pubs better than any other city: they’re cosy, warm (in temperature and character) and serve various world-renowned local drinks. Basically, they’re the kind of places anyone in their right mind would enjoy passing an evening tucked away inside.

But when better weather arrives and this ecosystem is disturbed, suddenly, sitting outside with your drinks is no longer a brave statement – it's the only thing your heart could ever desire. And while our city can’t compete with the swish rooftop terraces of many other capital cities, we don't do a half-bad job of it either.

It's 20 degrees out there right now, which means straight to pub come 5pm.

Here's where you should go...

Blackbird, Rathmines 

Impressively detailed décor, a fantastic selection of drinks and a location within walking distance of a large residential area make Blackbird a great meeting spot. Topping it all off is its beer garden.

While so many Dublin pubs tend to box their terrace off, corralling people into a space, Blackbird has opted for a cosy, open-plan outdoor seating area which looks out onto the street from two sides. This makes the bar feel welcoming and indeed like an important neighbourhood spot, in sync with the local urban environment.

With its worn-out couches, old lampshades and wide selection of craft beer, this place drew the attention of the hipsters within days of opening, but since then it's gone on to be a classically great spot for a few scoops.

There's a heap of boardgames...

They give out free sweets!

And the beer garden is ideal for a few pints...