Everyone has a favorite local pub, but here are some outstanding choices for an Irish-inspired celebration this St. Patrick’s Day.
And good news: the Shore is graced with the luck of the Irish, a number of restaurants serve these signature dishes not only on March 17, but throughout the year as well.
Duffy’s Tavern, Ocean City
Nestled in the Montego Bay shopping center, Duffy’s has been serving pints of Guinnessand Irish stew to loyal patrons since 1985. The diverse menu offers traditional Irish dishes, such as the generously stuffed baked lamb pot pie, and beach favorites like steamed shrimp, crab cake sandwiches, grilled steaks and more.
Go: 130th Street, Ocean City. Call 410-250-1449.
Shenanigans Irish Pub & Grille
Eat, drink and be Irish on 4th Street. Perhaps one of Ocean City’s only authentic Irish bars, Shenanigans allows patrons to step off the boardwalk and right into Ireland. The menu offers Irish inspired eats like “Shamrock Steamers”, “Crocks O’ Gold”, “Shenawhiches” and “Dublin Desserts.” Sit back with a pint at the bar and look for your family’s Irish crest — the pub’s ceiling is trimmed with dozens of them.
Go: 309 N. Atlantic Ave., Ocean City. Call 410-289-7181. Visit ocshenanigans.com.
The Irish Penny Pub & Grill
The only Irish bar in Salisbury lives up to the hype with a tin ceiling, a hand-crafted oak bar and weekly, authentic live music sessions. The Penny’s warm, cozy atmosphere easily draws people in, but its the pickle shots and juicy Jameson burgers that keeps them coming back. The homemade menu is packed with classic Irish dishes with an Eastern Shore Twist. Don’t forget to try the bangers and mash.
Go: 1014 S. Salisbury Blvd., Salisbury. Call 410-742-0002. Visit www.theirishpennypub.com.
Murph’s Beef & Ale
Pitt ham, hand-carved beef, baked turkey and slow roasted potatoes are always available at this laid-back Irish eatery, located in Henlopen Square. The simple, yet mouthwatering menu features creamy potato soup, gravy cheese fries and slow-roasted beef, pork, ham and turkey sandwiches. Get yours “Murphed” by topping it with specialty aged provolone, homemade gravy and sauteed garlic broccoli rabe. Then wash it all down with a gloriously cold pint of ale.
Go: 37169 Rehoboth Avenue Extended, Rehoboth Beach. Call 302-212-5355.
Irish Eyes Restaurant & Pub
After more than two decades, Irish Eyes has earned a reputation for quality service that matches its menu. And while there are a few authentic choices, the name of the game here is burgers, seafood and steaks. Plus, enjoy bands who specialize in the Dublin-down sound on a fairly regular Saturday night basis.
Go: 105 Union Street, Milton. Call 302-684-8889. Visit www.irisheyespub.com.