The 7th Floor

Ever been to one of those exclusive LA clubs where there is no sign and you walk in and everyone is cooler then you are? That is exactly how I felt when the silver doors of the elevator opened up and I walked into the 7^th floor at the Guinness Factory, a place so cool it doesn’t even have a name, they just call it the 7^th Floor.  Okay so they call it the Gravity Bar, but doesn’t that sound so much cooler!

I went to the Guinness Factory not really knowing what to expect, but I walked out with a sense of history and a great appreciation for what was quickly becoming my favorite drink, Guinness. On the way inside the place it just seems like an old brick building but as soon as those entry doors part way, you are immediately swept into the Guinness experience. You go up to the counter and buy a ticket like you are about to go on the most fantastic rollercoaster you can think of. First you proceed through a maze of history about where the dark rich Guinness came from and how it was made. The part I think I remember most were the old bottles displayed, and it was at that time you truly get a sense of the history in your glass. I also remember the instructional video of how they use to make barrels to transport the Guinness. Around every corner you are slammed with amazing stories that truly bring a pint of Guinness to life.

Once you have completed your history lesson you then have a choice, and I recommend you follow my instruction on this one. You have the option of going up to the 7^th floor or taking a pit stop at the 4^th floor restaurant.  There you can enjoy a pint or two of Guinness while dining on the most amazing Guinness Stew you could ever imagine. It was a man paradise of flavor with whole roasted chunks of lams, carrots, and potato in a rich brown Guinness broth. It also comes with Brown Bread, which is basically soda bread, but I have never before or after that experience, tasted bread that complimented a meal so well. Once you have completed your meal stop and learn about how Guinness is processed from start to finish before heading to the Gravity bar on the 7^th floor.

With my belly full of absolute goodness I walked into the elevator and hit the button marked 7^th floor. I truly had no idea what to expect when the doors eventually opened but what I saw was worth every cent of the admission price, which coincidently gets you a free beer when you arrive at the 7^th floor. The steal doors open and you are immediately punched in the face with the most breath taking view you will ever see. The Gravity Bar is a complete panoramic view of Dublin, Ireland and all its glory! So imagine grabbing a seat that gazes upon the entire city while sipping on your free Guinness that is poured every so delicately. A true Guinness must rest 2 minutes before being topped off and served. My buddy and I managed to finagle one extra beer apiece and we didn’t speak a word as we just sat and watched as the word went by beneath our feet. Finally it was time to go and discover more of Ireland, we had reservations at the Jameson Factory! On the way down just before the elevator shut I took one last look, that image is just for me!

Sláinte!

--Bryan

Entrance to the Guinness Factory

About to step off the elevator to the Gravity Bar.

View from the Gravity Bar.

Old Guinness Bottles on the tour.