It's hard to decide whether the work that photographer Eric Roth did for his latest book was a dream job - or torture. Roth and his coauthor (and pub quest cohort), Eileen McNamara, made three trips over a 24-day period, "zigzagging all over Ireland, from pub to pub," in search of watering holes worth including in their book, The Parting Glass: A Toast to the Traditional Pubs of Ireland (Stewart, Tabori & Chang, $30). In the spirit of St. Patrick's Day, we pushed Roth to offer up the names of 10 great pubs - five in Dublin and five around the rest of the isle - worth settling into for an evening of good craic (fun). And though he feels like a rat for excluding so many, he was more than happy to oblige us. - Jenna Schnuer

Here are the top 10 Irish pubs to raise your glass to this St. Paddy's Day:

1-The Stag's Head, One Dame Court: "Don't let the formal atmosphere of ornately carved wood, stained glass, and other rich embellishments intimidate you. This pub is as warm and as friendly as your local neighborhood pint."

2-The Swan, 57 Aungier Street: A family-owned and very friendly spot, the Swan is a beauty of a "classic elegant pub."

3-John Kehoe, Nine Anne Street South: Consider yourself lucky if you score the "old snug," says Roth. The "enclosed booth is the best seat in the house."

4-The Temple Bar, Temple Lane: If it's nighttime, there's sure to be a music session underway at this local legend.

5-Toner's, 139 Lower Baggot Street: Need to shake hands with new friends you met inside? Rest your pint on the half-round shelves on the walls.

6-Morrissey's, Abbeyleix, Countºy Laois: "This is the most accurately preserved of all historic pubs," says Roth, "a true mecca for traditional-pub enthusiasts."