Here in Seattle it's 6PM on a Saturday evening so there's no better time for me to finally put a personal FAQ answer on the record: No, Irish bars in the US are *not* that similar to actual pubs in Ireland. Let me cover just some of the ways!
-
-
When you get back to your table, you enjoy your drinks with your friends. Going to an Irish pub is group work. IMPORTANT: Conversation is had at a level where you can hear each other clearly, but not be clearly overheard, except for occasional uproarious laughter.
Show this thread -
Other differences: Irish pubs are often carpeted, rarely seen in the US. Nostalgic knick-knacks are less common, though not rare. Parking lots are vanishingly rare. No such thing as strip malls either.
Show this thread -
A really stark difference is that drink-driving is much much more taboo in Irish culture, where DUIs are not seen as misdemeanors (either socially, or legally). The hours are quite different too. Things tend to close earlier in Ireland than most US cities.
Show this thread -
Irish pubs tend to be less spacious too, people are really packed in in a way you'd never see in the US. But it's good! O.k. since I'm going to abuse this tweet thread to refer people to in the future, here's my list of pubs worth going to if you visit Ireland ...
Show this thread -
Hughes' on Chancery lane, behind the four courts, Dublin. Best session music in the city too. Friday night is best.
Show this thread -
Gravedigger's in Glasnevin, also Dublin, especially on a cold winter's night.
Show this thread -
Bowes' on Fleet St. Dublin. Don't venture any more into Temple Bar than this.
Show this thread -
Ryan's on Parkgate St., Dublin, before you go up for a meal at FXBs.
Show this thread
End of conversation
New conversation -
-
-
The only thing better than a shandy with TK red lemonade is a proper toasted sandwich. And a bag of Taytos.
Thanks. Twitter will use this to make your timeline better. UndoUndo
-
Loading seems to be taking a while.
Twitter may be over capacity or experiencing a momentary hiccup. Try again or visit Twitter Status for more information.