We take pride in delivering a perfectly poured pint every time, and whether you're settling in upstairs at Daffy’s or heading down to Gibney’s, our Guinness is poured slow, smooth, and with purpose - just as it should be.
Whether you’re a seasoned drinker or just now getting into this dark nectar, there’s one ritual in particular that is sacred amongst a certain audience: Splitting the G. It's a tradition that might baffle the old regulars, but earns a respectful nod from those in the know. It's not just a bit of pub trickery, it's a symbol of reverence, precision, and the craic that surrounds a truly great pint.
What Is ‘Splitting the G’?
You may have heard the term ‘splitting the G’ thrown around the pub once or twice, you might have witnessed some of your pals giving it a go, or you might have even had a crack at it yourself. But, for those who don’t know, ‘splitting the G’ is the act of taking your first sip so precisely that the creamy white head of your drink drops clean through the centre of the “G” in the Guinness logo printed on the glass. Sounds easy enough, right?
Sometimes, easier said than done. To split the G takes a steady hand, a smooth sip, and a perfectly poured pint. When done right, it leaves a proud trail through the letter, marking that sweet spot earned only by the professional Guinness drinkers. It’s a little challenge, a little brag, and a charming little ritual to enjoy with your mates.
Where Did It Come From? A Bit of Irish Pub Lore
Like many great pub traditions, the true origins of ‘splitting the G’ are a little hazy, most likely lost somewhere between good pints and even better stories. While no one can quite pinpoint who did it first, or why, we’re taking a small liberty in claiming it as an Irish tradition. After all, who else could have birthed such a charming little tradition than the makers of Guinness itself?
Over time, what may have started as a bit of cheeky pub banter has quickly spread. From local lads in Dublin to drinkers in London, New York, and beyond, this nifty little party trick has become a sort of unofficial badge of honour among Guinness lovers.
The Perfect Pint: Pouring Guinness the Right Way
If you’re going to attempt to split the G, trust us when we tell you it all starts with the perfect pour. First, the glass is tilted at a 45 degree angle and filled three quarters of the way up. Then, you wait. Let it settle. That iconic surge and settle is what gives Guinness its creamy head and smooth texture. Once it’s ready, your bartender tops it up slowly, straightening the glass and finishing with that signature dome of foam that just kisses the rim.
Why all the fuss about the head? Because that creamy cap is key. It locks in the flavour, gives Guinness its velvety mouthfeel, and, importantly for our G-splitting mission, acts as the delicious canvas for your first sip. If the head’s too thick, thin, or poured too fast, there’s no splitting to be done. Get it just right, though, and your first sip glides through the G like a warm knife through proper Irish butter.
At Gibney’s, our bartenders pour with passion and precision. Our Guinness taps are the real deal; the exact same as you’ll find in the heart of Dublin and poured with the same pride. So if you’ve ever heard someone say “you can’t get a good pint of Guinness in London”, well, you can tell them they just haven’t been to the right place…
Why It Matters: Ritual, Craic, and Community
In Irish pub culture, drinking isn’t just about the pint – it’s about the ritual, the storytelling, and the craic. A good Guinness is meant to be sipped slowly, savoured between laughs, tunes, and tales. It’s the kind of tradition that travels. Whether you’re in Dublin, London, New York or Melbourne, people who love a proper pint will know what it means to give it a go. It can turn strangers at the bar into fast friends, spark conversation, and create a little moment of shared celebration.
There’s nothing quite like mingling with a new crowd on a night out, raising your glass, and all trying to hit that perfect middle of the G. That’s the magic of it - a simple tradition that reminds us we’re all here for the same thing: a good drink, good company, and a bit of good natured craic.
Try It at Daffodil Mulligan’s
So, now you know all about our Guinness and this lovely little custom, do you feel ready to test your skills? Of course you do! Come join us in Shoreditch and give splitting the G a go at Daffodil Mulligan. Whether you're a seasoned pint pro or just curious what all the fuss is about, come give it your best shot ‘round ours.
Our Guinness and house stout are always poured perfectly using the traditional Irish two part method, just like you'd find back home. So come on in, raise a glass, and see if you’ve got what it takes to get it right first go. Sláinte!
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"My new favorite restaurant in London. The service is wonderful, the vibe is cozy and the food is unique but tasty. Many steps above pub food but it invokes the same coziness! I also think they have the best Guinness I’ve tried in London".
Meg
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"Needs more customers on a Friday BUT the food and service were brilliant.The manager could not have. Done more for us ..Even running up and down to the bar below for the best Guinness".
Mark Bryan
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"10/10. Food, service and even the Guinness was excellent. Had the cote de bouef. Sublime. Will be back".
David O'Mahony
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"Fabulous staff and all the tasty treats... With the best Guinness in town, sure you'll be only grand ☺️"
Daithi MacAodh
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"Well-kept Guinness. Laid-back atmosphere. Attentive service and good food. Nice dessert menu also and the option of two Irish coffees as digestifs. Would definitely return"
Cristian Ley
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"Great food and service. Plus they sell a proper pint of guiness here".
William Feltham