.png)
Saint Patrick’s Day is more than just a celebration of Irish heritage, it’s also a great time to take the family out for some traditional Irish cuisine and of course to grab a pint of Guinness. There are tons of places to eat and drink in Los Angeles, here’s just a few that I like to frequent starting with our very own Griffins of Kinsale.
1007 Mission St, South Pasadena.
(626) 799-0926
What my friends and family often just refer to as ‘The Pub’, Griffins sports a family atmosphere with some unique dishes in addition to my personal favorite policy; no television. Their Shepard’s Pie is second to none and if you’re in the mood for a juicy burger the Pub Burger is fantastic. The Guinness Brats are also another one of my favorites. You can find Lagunitas here on tap as well as some Cider, Harp, Guinness and Smithwick’s. Between all the food and drink they also offer live music from traditional Irish tunes to local bands. This is the place I go to listen to music, have a drink and talk with friends. The service is simply spectacular and after a couple visits, you’re almost guaranteed to run into someone you know. I cannot speak highly enough of Griffins of Kinsale.
300 W Main St #110, Alhambra
(626) 872-1504
In neighboring Alhambra, nestled among the shops and eateries of Main Street lies Limericks Tavern. Limericks is where I go when I want corned beef and cabbage. It’s also where I go for my Bangers and Mash. Both plates are so delicious it’s very difficult to pick between the two. The menu offers a lot of variety from Bratwurst to a fantastic Cubano sandwich. For sports fans there’s a lot of televisions and they show UFC fights with no cover charge, ever. Their happy hour Monday through Friday includes by one beer and get the second at one dollar and with over 20 beers on tap the extra savings can go a long way!
Jameson’s Irish Pub and Sports Bar
6681 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles
(323) 798-5360
A little further out in Hollywood just down the street from the Musician’s Institute sits Jameson’s or what we refer to as ‘Jamoes’ Sports is really the highlight here. This is where my friends and I go to watch basketball or soccer. The restaurant is very large, the food delicious and affordable. Every single sandwich and burger I’ve eaten there is always good. The wait staff is quick, and kind and it has a very nice family vibe to it. Whenever we’re there you can see and hear family’s laughing and having a good time or cheering as their team scores or as their rival team fails. Their happy hour deals are great. It’s nice to get off the busy streets of Hollywood and enter a pub and restaurant that feels a little old school. I go here weekly(and sometimes more) with a few of my friends to connect, have a pint and watch a little telly. I have yet to have a bad experience there, if you’re out that way keep an eye out, you may find me at the bar laughing and eating a burger.
330 W. Birch St, Brea
(714) 529-1224
Venturing south into Orange County you’ll find Macallans Public House in Brea, where the selection of scotch, whisky and bourbons is second to none. Among its numerous awards, the pub was named Orange County’s No. 1 whisky bar in Orange County in 2018. The place also provides an impressive collection of beers and expertly crafted cocktails. Expect a night of fun as Macallans offers classic comfort dishes with the fresh ingredients. Live music on Friday and Saturday nights only enhances the experience.
2980 Los Feliz Blvd.
Los Angeles (323) 664-0228
The Tam O’Shanter, Los Angeles’ oldest restaurant operated by the same family in the same location, has been delighting diners for over 90 years,
St. Patrick’s Day will be the perfect opportunity to enjoy good cheer, warm hospitality and exceptional food in a cozy old world atmosphere. Those with some Scottish ancestry just might even find their family tartan among the extensive collection decorating the walls.
Signature cocktails like Moscow Mule (vodka, Bundaberg and ginger beer) and Table 31 (templeton rye, jasmine liqueur and apple bitters) along with a wide assortment of beers are the perfect beverages before diving into any one of their cuts of delicious prime rib.
I love St. Patrick’s Day. I love being Irish, I love seeing everyone out having a great time with their friends, that’s what the day is really about: for celebrating life for the sake of life itself. Sometimes we need days to remind ourselves that good food, drink and friendship can make this journey so much easier. So remember to have a great time and be safe, Uber, Lyft or walk if you go out. Have a Happy St. Patricks Day, South Pasadena! Sláinte mhaith!
