Thursday, March 17, 2011

St. Patrick's Day In LA: Which pub is for you?

St. Patrick's Day is here and that means we are all Irish for the day. In an effort to help you make the most of your day, I've done a little research on the topic of Irish pubs in Los Angeles. I am part Irish after-all (1/8th, to be exact) so obviously I'm an expert when it comes to all things pub.

The good news is that there is no shortage of pubs in Los Angeles. But that's also the bad news. How are you going to decide where to go? So many choices. Unless you have a favorite spot all picked out or you're plan is to drive around until you see shamrocks, I have a few suggestions. But please drink (and eat) responsibly.

Finn McCool's Irish Pub
2702 Main Street
Santa Monica, 90405
(310) 452 - 1734
www.finnmccoolsirishpub.com




There is a lot to love about this place. For starters, the bar itself was shipped to LA from Dublin. And to go along with the authentic Irish bar, most of the staff is Irish as well. There's nothing like hearing an Irish brogue to get you in the mood for St. Patty's Day. And if you come for the accents you'll stay for the food. Along with the traditional Irish fare they also have an extensive vegan and vegetarian menu if you'd rather have a healthier meal with your Guinness. On the other hand there's the Irish Nachos; cheddar cheese, Irish bacon, sour cream and salsa on top of their house made thick cut chips. So. Good.




They'll be open at 9am St Patrick's Day. Live traditional Irish music from 1-5pm then live rock and roll from 9pm to closing (around 2am).


Casey's Irish Pub
613 South Grand Ave.
Los Angeles, 90017
(213) 629 - 2353
www.caseysirishpub.com


Casey's is located in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles.This place has been here since 1969. It feels a bit moody; it's dark and rich and almost stylized. It's no wonder it's been used to film countless television shows and movies. There are a lot of cool elements in this pub including the ginormous mahogany bar, behind which you'll find all manner of Irish whiskeys and beers. They feature a good selection of Irish fare including a Guinness stew served with some of the best Irish soda bread I've ever had. And speaking of Guinness, you'll find it on the menu in two different places; on the drink menu and under the appetizers. Love it.

To celebrate St. Patrick's Day Casey's is closing the street out front. They'll have live music all day with no cover. And plenty of green beer, of course.


Timmy Nolan's Tavern and Grill
10111 Riverside Drive
Toluca Lake, 91602
(818) 985 - 3359
www.timmynolans.net




Timmy's is my local pub so I'm a bit partial to it. It has two stories of Irish charm and hospitality, you can either belly up to the downstairs bar or find a cozy booth upstairs. It's also a great place for sports fans with their 11 flat screens. They have over 20 beers on tap and over 20 Irish whiskeys available and a knowledgeable staff to help you decide which is the right one for you. The menu is full of Irish pub grub and comfort food - try the mac and cheese or the Irish Nachos. Timmy's Irish Nachos are very different than Finn's; Finn's are prepared with a bit more pizazz and, lets say restraint. Timmy's nachos are shameless and  bad for you but perfect for soaking up all those pints you just drank. Steak-style fries smothered in cheese, Irish stew, bacon and who cares what else. And if that's not enough, try the Black Irish Brownie, topped with Jack Daniels caramel sauce and home made whipped cream.



Timmy's is celebrating St. Patrick's Day with bagpipes and drink specials.


Have a safe and Happy St. Patrick's Day!
Cat (Mc)Crimins


Do you have a great local pub? Tell us about it!

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