Slice of the City

A Love Letter to Dublin

Oisín Kelly was born and raised in Dublin, a city he describes as the perfect blend of a major metropolis and a small town. "Dublin is big enough that there’s always something happening—art, music, culture—but it’s never too big to feel overwhelming," he says. "There’s a real sense of community here. Everyone knows each other, and you’re never far from a familiar face."

For Oisín, Dublin is more than just a home—it’s a wellspring of inspiration. As a writer, he finds the city’s rich literary history and thriving creative scene to be the perfect backdrop for his work. But it’s in the world of cocktails that he’s made his mark, crafting drinks that tell stories just as vividly as any prose.

The Journey to The Sidecar

Oisín’s career began in the unlikeliest of places—bussing tables at a local pub. It was there that he discovered his passion for mixology. "Cocktail making felt like solving a puzzle to me," he recalls. "It’s about balance, creativity, and making something that can transport a guest to another time or place."

His dedication and artistry eventually led him to The Sidecar, one of Dublin’s most celebrated cocktail bars, housed in The Westbury, a five-time winner of Condé Nast Traveler's Best Hotel in Ireland award. At The Sidecar, Oisín has built a reputation for not only crafting exceptional cocktails but also curating experiences that leave a lasting impression; in fact, he was named Bar Manager of the Year in 2024 by the Irish Bar of the Year Awards. His creations are known for their perfect balance, fresh ingredients, and broad appeal—three qualities he believes are essential in any great drink.

What Makes a Great Cocktail?

With all his experience, what does Oisín believe separates a great cocktail from a forgettable one? He has a three-part formula:

1. Balance: "A drink should never be ‘too’ anything—not too sweet, not too bitter. Every element should work in harmony."
2. Fresh Ingredients: "Quality matters. The best cocktails come from using the best possible ingredients."
3. Broad Appeal: "A great cocktail should have depth but still be accessible to a wide range of palates."

A Champion Behind the Bar

Oisín’s expertise extends beyond the walls of The Sidecar. A gold medalist at the prestigious World Cocktail Competition, he thrives in the high-stakes world of mixology contests. "I love competitions because they force you to think outside the box," he explains. "You’re challenged to create something truly unique, something you might not have thought of otherwise."

That same innovative spirit is what makes his cocktail menus at The Sidecar so remarkable. "I see each menu as a story," he says. "It’s not just about the drinks themselves but the entire experience—the flavors, the garnishes, even the way the menu is designed. It all works together to create something immersive."

The Sidecar Takeover at Doyle

From March 4-7, Oisín and The Sidecar’s Head Bartender, Marjoe Milosevic, will bring their expertise to The Dupont Circle for a special pop-up event at Doyle. The event promises a limited-time cocktail menu featuring their signature creations, each blending the spirit of Ireland with a touch of vintage glamour. Guests can also indulge in curated Irish bites, from sweet and tender crab on Guinness Bread to golden, crispy Irish Boxty.

A Passion for Hospitality

For Oisín, the magic of bartending isn’t just about mixing drinks—it’s about people. "I love meeting guests, hearing their stories, and making their experience special," he says. "A great bar is about more than just the cocktails; it’s about creating a space where people feel welcome, where they can connect and unwind."

As we prepare to welcome Oisín to Doyle, we invite you to join us in raising a glass to Irish craftsmanship, community, and creativity. Whether you're a cocktail aficionado or just looking to experience a taste of Dublin in the heart of D.C., this is an event you won’t want to miss.

Sláinte!