The Last Word with Matt Cooper Drinking Culture Shift From Pub To Home
Nov 19, 2025
Ali Dunworth, author of A Compendium of Irish Pints, dives into the shifting drinking culture in Ireland, where one in three now drinks at home. She discusses the cultural significance of pubs, the challenges of solo visits for women, and how home drinking has increased since lockdowns. Ali highlights the rise of non-alcoholic options and pubs evolving to offer more than just drinks, like quizzes and events. With significant trends in reducing alcohol consumption, she argues for the social benefits of pub environments compared to solitary home drinking.
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Home Drinking Has Become The Common Occasion
- DrinkAware finds the most common drinking occasion in Ireland is now drinking at home, often weekly.
- Ali Dunworth was surprised because she values pub culture and wrote her book to champion pubs.
Book Born From Missing The Pub
- Ali Dunworth wrote her book during COVID and missed the pub, which motivated her defence of pub culture.
- She describes pubs as culturally important buildings beyond being places to drink.
Solo Pub Visits Feel Like Cold Water
- Ali admits she often goes for a pint alone and compares it to 'getting into the cold water' before settling in.
- She notes cultural awkwardness remains, especially for women, despite generally being left alone if confident.
