Our Wednesday early-evening arrival preceded the weekly trivia night, where we found the cozy atmosphere already flowing with guests seated at wood tables and atop plaid-covered stools. Irish music played in the background and chalkboard signage spotlighted Irish beer, cider and whiskey. Local and seasonal brews, as well as wine and Irish coffee, are also available.
A taste of Ireland
Customers will always find one of the Barry’s at the helm of the bar, and our visit allowed Danny to walk us through the libations.
Pleased that one member of my group expressed interest in one of the 50 Irish whiskey options, Barry explained that in Ireland, many of the counties have a different take on what an Irish whiskey can and should be.
Family recipes
As his mother predicted, Barry’s family recipes (which he calls Irish soul food) made their way onto the menu. We were taken with the flavorful bowl of potato soup ($6.) Not too heavy in texture, the broth delighted from white wine, cream, fresh chopped rosemary, thyme and plenty of hardy red bliss bobbing potatoes.
A mashed version of those potatoes served as a thick and creamy topper for the Shepherd's Pie ($14.) Layered beneath the spuds, we plunged into ground beef seasoned with Guinness, sautéed peas, carrots and onions.
As an unexpected and pleasant touch, warm slices of homemade Irish brown bread were served on the side of both dishes. The recipe, which incorporates molasses, was offered to the Barry’s from a pub they visited in Ireland, a connection they still have today.
