The Bar/Lounge at The Shelbourne, Autograph Collection

"The spring 2007 reopening represents more of a restrained restoration than a reinvention: The classic Horseshoe Bar is still there, draped in burgundy wall coverings, as is the Lord Mayor's Lounge, where waitresses wearing strings of pearls pour afternoon tea"

"Soak up the past in the Saddle Room, the Lord Mayor’s Lounge and the Horseshoe Bar, or brush up your knowledge in the Shelbourne Museum located in the lobby"

"An enduring, venerable tradition is to take tea in the Lord Mayor's Lounge, just off the towering, marble-floor, cream-and-crystal lobby with its gilded pillars and brass candelabra"

"Still, the ornate common spaces, hot spot bars and dining venues, luxury spa, and historic cachet combine to make this one of Dublin's premier options"

"Among the swanky common areas: a formal tearoom (make reservations in advance for high tea); two wood-paneled bars (both popular with Irish Parliament members); and the gold-upholstered Saddle Room restaurant and oyster bar"