With St. Patrick's Day coming up, it's time to start thinking about the best place to spend this holiday full of beer, whiskey and the color green. St. Patrick's Day was originally the celebration of St. Patrick, a patron saint of Ireland. However, as more and more Irish immigrants came to the United States, it became a way to celebrate Irish culture as a whole and the many wonderful things it brings to our country. One of the best affects that the Irish have had on our culture is the introduction of Irish pubs. These Irish pubs in the South are the perfect places to experience a slice of Ireland.
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Whether you're there for the pub grub, the Irish coffee or the selection of craft beer, going to an authentic Irish pub is an experience. Often decorated liberally with Irish decor and featuring the best Irish whiskeys, Irish pubs are the place to go to unwind after work or to turn up on the weekends.
Some host live bands or karaoke, while others simply curate an atmosphere of coziness and camaraderie that encourages strangers to strike up conversation and share a few drinks. On St. Patrick's Day, there's no better place to go than your nearest Irish pub, where you can honor St. Patrick with a green beer and a plate of authentic Irish fare. These 15 Irish pubs in the South are the perfect watering holes to celebrate St. Patty's Day and enjoy all that the Irish have to offer!
1. John D. McGurk's- St. Louis, MO
Whether you live in St. Louis or are simply passing through on a road trip, John D. McGurk's is the best place to stop by for some hearty Irish fare and libations. This Irish pub has been open since the '70's, and hosts Irish bands and musicians every night of the week. Enjoy lively Irish music while chowing down on steak, fish, pasta and tasty Irish dishes. If you feel like a break from the rustic wood and brick interior, check out the 15,000 square foot outdoor garden area with its fountain, waterfall and beautiful landscaping.
2. Kerry Irish Pub- New Orleans, LA
You don't typically think of the Irish when you think of New Orleans, but this Louisiana city has a sprinkling of Irish pubs for when you want a break from jambalaya and jazz. Kerry Irish Pub hosts live music every night, offering a space for traditional Irish music in New Orleans. It also has a reputation for having the best pint of Guinness in the city.
3. Katy O'Ferrell's Publick House- Cape Girardeau, MO
The O'Ferrell's came from Ireland and are the perfect authorities on how to own a cozy Irish pub in the states. Known for its impressive Irish beer, whiskey and scotch menu, this Southeastern Mississippi Irish pub is the spot for friendly people and comforting Irish-inspired eats. Plus, it has fun themed days like 2 for 1 Irish whiskey, 2 ginger Tuesday, and of course thirsty Thursday.
4. The Celtic House Irish Pub & Restaurant- Arlington, VA
The Celtic House Irish Pub & Restaurant is the place to go to experience traditional Irish cuisine and drinks, along with a welcoming atmosphere and staff. Start with a tasty atmosphere, enjoy some beef stew or Shepherd's pie, and end with a delectable dessert, all while sipping on a pint of Guinness. This pub also has a wide selection of Irish whiskeys, bourbons and scotch's. There's wings and trivia night on Wednesdays, or come for the live music every Friday and Saturday.
5. Meehan's Public House Downtown- Atlanta, GA
Meehan's is perfect for a great pub vibe, large sandwiches and burgers, and Irish charm. Part of a landmark building, this Atlanta pub is not one to miss when exploring the city. The drink specials always hit the spot, and the truffle mac and cheese with lobster added is addictingly delicious. Whether it's St. Patrick's Day or a typical weeknight, Meehan's Public House Downtown will transport you to Ireland with its pub food and welcoming atmosphere.
6. St. James Gate- Folly Beach, SC
St. James Gate offers the welcoming atmosphere of a classic Irish Pub, giving any Irish food or culture lovers a haven of whiskey and beer. Enjoy the live music and fresh seafood entrees, or have the Shepherd's pie, which has a healthy serving of meat and an abundance of potato and cheese. The year-round garden patio has a wood-burning fireplace to get cozy by during the colder months, and it's tempting to spend the whole afternoon there making new friends with a craft beer in hand.
7. Mo's Irish Pub- Houston
Although an Irish Pub may not fit into the idea of the classic Southwestern bar you'd expect when passing through Houston, this Irish Pub is the place to go for good beer and a laid-back, cozy atmosphere. Sports fans can enjoy the TV screens throughout the bar while sampling the extensive craft, domestic, and imported beer selection. Come to Mo's for a relaxed evening with friends and a plate of yummy Irish grub.
8. Jack & Ginger's- Austin, TX
With a location in Austin and Dallas, Jack & Ginger's is known for having "the biggest pretzel you've ever seen," the perfect ambiance, and a great selection of beers. Try the Guinness Battered Fish & Chips, Ginger's Shepherd Pie, or a Full Irish Breakfast complete with black pudding and crispy potatoes. Better yet, come to this hip Irish pub for happy hour for a deal on a pint and pretzel or a beer flight.
9. Meagher's Irish Pub- Bridgeport, WV
Meagher's Irish Pub was created with the intention of giving the community a place to have friendly conversation and gather with friends. It does just that, living up to the hopes of its founders, the Meaghers. Meagher's serves Irish/American fare, New Celtic cuisine and a wide selection of tasty Irish ale and whiskey, which is best enjoyed in the company of old friends and new acquaintances.
10. Finnegan's Way- Miami, Fl
Finnegan's Way is ideal if you want the choice between classic Miami fare like margaritas and coconut shrimp, and classic American and Irish compfort food. This Irish sports bar offers a beautiful view and is known for its amazing staff. Drop by Finnegan's to play pool, watch the game, and enjoy the casual, welcoming atmosphere of a Dublin pub.
11. The Red Shamrock Pub- Birmingham, AL
If you find yourself with a hankering for pub grub or Irish whiskey, The Red Shamrock Pub is the place to go in Birmingham. Known for having the best bartenders in town and great food, check out the live music on Friday and Saturday nights. Even better, enjoy the happy hour during the week from 2 to 6. On St. Patrick's Day, this lovable Irish Pub has Irish drink specials and green beer for the perfect way to celebrate Irish culture.
12. The Limerick Pub- Wheaton, MD
They say that there's "something for everyone" at The Limerick Pub, whether you're there for an entertaining night of trivia or a thought-provoking book reading. This cozy pub curates a welcoming atmosphere that invites patrons to cheers with strangers and let loose with friends. Sing along to the live music and throw some darts as you enjoy your blarney and Guinness.
13. McNamara's Irish Pub and Restaurant- Nashville, TN
Although most people come to Nashville for the country music and honkytonking, it's fun to switch it up with one of Nashville's original Irish Pubs, McNamara's. You'll feel like you've been transported right to Galway or Dublin when you see the walls covered in Gaelic sports memorabilia, Irish albums and other traditional decor. Enjoy the corned beef and cabbage and Scotch eggs for a taste of Ireland, have some good craic (fun) on a weekend night, or come on a lazy weekend morning for a classic Irish breakfast.
14. Molly Malone's- Louisville, KY
With a location in Louisville and Covington, Molly Malone's is unique for serving classic Irish fare, American food and an extensive vegan menu. It's beloved for its welcoming atmosphere and delicious Irish food, along with its Friday and Saturday DJ nights, which last into the wee hours of the morning. Sports fans can enjoy international soccer, rugby, and hurling on the wide screen TV, cheering on their favorite teams with plate of corned beef hash and a pint of Guinness in hand. Plus, the tasty Irish brunch on Sunday mornings is the perfect way to cure your hangover.
15. O' Connell's Irish Pub- Savannah, GA
There may be bigger Irish Pubs in Savannah, but none are as authentic as O' Connell's. The atmosphere is friendly and cheerful, Irish music playing in the background and soccer jerseys, pictures of Irish countryside, and other Irish memorabilia covering the walls. This Irish bar is known for having the best Guinness in town, each batch of which is tested to ensure that customers get the very best.
READ MORE: 11 Authentic Irish Dishes That Don't Involve Guinness or the Color Green
