Platform 61, situated at 27 South William Street in Dublin 2, has carved out a unique niche in the city’s vibrant nightlife scene. The venue, inspired by the historic Platform 61 at Grand Central Terminal in New York—which once hosted the likes of Franklin D. Roosevelt—brings a blend of Art Deco elegance and contemporary flair to the heart of Dublin.
Opening its doors in the mid-2010s, Platform 61 initially emerged as a restaurant and bar with an underground setting, quickly gaining popularity for its secretive, speakeasy-style atmosphere and creative cocktail lists. Over time, Platform 61 organically evolved into a nightlife hotspot, leveraging its prime location within Dublin’s bustling Creative Quarter. The club became renowned for its diverse mix of live music events, DJ nights, and themed parties, drawing in a cosmopolitan crowd and becoming a staple for both locals and visitors seeking an alternative to mainstream nightclubs.
Structurally, the venue has maintained much of its original underground allure with subtle renovations enhancing acoustics, lighting, and the overall ambiance, but has not undergone significant changes in location or dramatic structural overhauls. Through its programming, Platform 61 has contributed to Dublin’s increasingly eclectic music landscape, hosting a series of up-and-coming acts before they broke into the international scene, as well as established artists in the electronic, indie, and alternative genres. The club’s cultural significance lies in its ability to serve as a launchpad for new talent while also acting as a social hub that bridges different subcultures within the city.
Notable artists who have graced the stage or DJ booth at Platform 61 include international electronic acts such as KiNK and Peggy Gou, local legends like DJ Deece and Sally Cinnamon, as well as indie groups such as Pillow Queens and All Tvvins, and a host of resident DJs who continually keep the dancefloor lively and innovative.