Soho Dublin – the city’s newest entertainment venue and premium nightclub – announced that it was in the final stages of preparing for its grand opening on Saturday 18 May. The vibrant space is setting the new standard for Dublin’s late-night entertainment scene. The new D’Olier Street venue aims to blend the old-school clubbing values and standards of Dublin in the nineties with a modern bougie fit-out and style.
This article was originally published in the Summer 2024 issue of Hospitality Ireland Magazine, in July of 2024.
Today is not a good time to be a Dubliner in your twenties or thirties, looking to dance the night away in a central Dublin nightclub. With four out of five nightclubs in Ireland having closed since the year 2000, much of today’s youth simply doesn’t know the nightclub standards and offerings of their parents.
Give Us The Night is a group of industry professionals leading the campaign for positive changes for nightlife in Ireland. The group states: ‘The nightclub industry here is now so small that it only accounts for 0.6% of the total licensed liquor trade in Ireland. Seven counties in Ireland are now down to their very last nightclub. The government’s promised reform still hasn’t happened, which is halting a rebirth of this once thriving industry.’
‘Dublin, with its rich nightlife history, needs fresh venue options to keep the city buzzing and alive. So today’s news of “SoHo Dublin” opening in the city centre is very positive industry news, in a time when we often hear far more about closures.’
However, Soho Dublin is far from just a new nightclub. It is a multi-purpose destination, designed to cater to every facet of nightlife culture. From club nights pulsating with the beats of top Irish DJs to live-music performances, theatrical events, corporate book-outs and fashion shows, the organisers of Soho Dublin have big plans.
Behind this endeavour are Irish hospitality veterans Jerry Harrington and Paul Hayden, who bring decades of experience and a passion for reviving Dublin’s nightlife to the forefront. With luxurious interiors exuding premium, stylish vibes and state-of-the-art sound and lighting, Soho Dublin sets a new standard for premium entertainment in the city.
Please tell us all about Soho Dublin – what it is, who it is for, etc.
Soho Dublin is more than just a nightlife venue – it is a celebration of sophisticated socialising for those over 21. With its excellent location, unparalleled customer service, and a commitment to providing an exceptional experience, Soho Dublin is set to become the go-to destination for a premium night out in the city.
Every room in Soho Dublin exudes elegance, with careful attention to detail ensuring that each space provides an inviting and luxurious atmosphere.
The venue prides itself on its outstanding customer service. The staff at Soho Dublin are dedicated to making sure every guest enjoys a seamless and memorable experience, attending to needs with a level of professionalism that sets a new standard in hospitality.
What truly sets Soho Dublin apart is its commitment to creating an enjoyable and dynamic atmosphere. The venue’s layout and ambiance have been crafted to cater to a variety of tastes, making it the perfect destination for both social gatherings and intimate nights out. Whether you’re dancing the night away or enjoying a quiet drink with friends, Soho Dublin guarantees a night to remember.
Why is it important to bring this kind of venue back to Dublin City?
Reviving a large event venue in the heart of Dublin City holds immense importance, for several compelling reasons. A versatile and accessible venue can significantly enhance the cultural and economic landscape of the city, offering a multitude of benefits to residents and visitors alike.
Cultural Enrichment: Having a prominent venue in Dublin City would provide a platform for a diverse array of cultural events, including concerts, international DJ performances, theatre productions, and corporate events.
Convenience and Accessibility: A centralised location means easier access via public transportation and shorter travel times for attendees.
Versatility: A multi-purpose venue can host a wide range of events, from music festivals and corporate conferences to community gatherings and trade shows. This versatility makes it a valuable asset for the city, catering to various interests and needs.
Enhanced Nightlife: By offering good deals and a top-notch entertainment experience, such a venue can become a cornerstone of Dublin’s nightlife.
What does it mean for a city to have no late nightlife?
A city without a vibrant late-night scene misses out on numerous cultural, social and economic benefits. For Dublin City, historically known for its rich cultural heritage and lively atmosphere, the absence of a late nightlife can have significant implications.
Cultural Impact: Dublin has a storied tradition of music, literature and arts that often thrive in late-night settings. The lack of such venues could stifle creative expression and diminish the city’s cultural vibrancy.
Economic Consequences: The nightlife industry, including bars, clubs, and late- night venues, is a significant economic driver. The absence of these venues can lead to job losses and reduced revenue for local businesses.
Social Connectivity: Nightlife provides essential social spaces, where people can connect, unwind, and build community.
Public Safety and Well-being: A controlled and vibrant nightlife can contribute to public safety by providing well-managed spaces for entertainment. Without these, people might resort to unregulated, unsafe gatherings.
Why is it important to you that this be an affordable venue?
It’s crucial for us to make this venue affordable because we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to enjoy a night out without breaking the bank. One of our key goals is to foster inclusivity. By offering affordable options, we ensure that our venue is accessible to a diverse audience, from students and young professionals to tourists. This inclusivity enriches the social fabric of Dublin, making our city a more vibrant and welcoming place.
Please tell us about yourself, Jerry – your background and career so far.
I have been around for a number of years in this business, and I love every day of my life in it. From hotels, bars, clubs and restaurants, I have been in it for a lifetime and look forward to what we are going to achieve.
What first drew you to the industry?
I worked weekends and school holidays in the hotel industry and never left!
What was your first big role?
I started in a club called Spiders, and we ended up evolving the business into a hospitality group.
What was that like?
It was exciting and fun.
What makes a great nightclub?
In my opinion, ambience, service and entertainment make a great club.
What are the major challenges at the moment?
In a time when there is a cost-of-living crisis, we have set out at Soho to make sure our customer receives value for money. Our valued customers are king.
Any other plans on the horizon for the next year or so?
Yes. We are developing the smartest coffee dock next to Soho and shall have it open soon.
