Charlie P's Vienna

Although technically not 'Viennese' (every travel guide should have a special category: 'obligatory Irish pub'), Charlie P's is definitely a place that has been closely associated with nightlife here in Alsergrund for a number of years. It is vibrant, and what's more, it's very well known all over Vienna. There's never a dull moment at Charlie's.

Charlie P's is huge in every respect: massive meals, loads of floorspace over two storeys (it's a pub/restaurant/event space), loud music, plenty of people. Sunday is pub-quiz night, and on Monday evenings there is karaoke, which is loved by locals and expats alike.

In addition, Charlie P's really is the place to be for sporting events, especially ones involving Ireland. That is to say, Six Nations Rugby and football matches, and GAA if you're so inclined. Other matches are naturally catered for, but the atmosphere is amplified ten-fold when the green machine are playing. Around St. Patrick's day, the place is even more raucous of course.

The food here is a lot fancier than the typical Irish fare. Order the fish and chips and you'll get a pea purée coulis along with 3-cooked chips (that's fries for those from over the pond, by the way). The burgers are a sight to behold, the steaks on steak night are succulent. The food is slightly on the expensive side, but it is worth it; I strongly recommend the Irish bread for starters.