Columbus and Ireland have a lot in common.
Nearly 13% of Ohioans claim some Irish ancestry and sometimes, whether it’s the desire to feel connected to that ancient ancestry, or because you’re just craving a Guinness, we find ourselves heading out to the nearest Irish pub.
Irish pubs weren’t immune to the negative effects of the pandemic and we certainly lost a few, but the best of the best are still open and going strong. Whether you’re looking for a full Irish breakfast or you’d just like to grab a pint with your friends, we’ve got a fun selection of Irish bars around town where you can do either.
Hey Hey Bar and Grill
Located snuggly between Merion Village and German Village, Hey Hey Bar and Grill isn’t a stereotypical Irish pub. Technically, this is more of an Irish-American bar, but it still makes the list. The building itself was once a Prohibition-era speakeasy, but now it’s a delightful neighborhood bar. If you’d like a bite to eat with your meal, you can always order the iconic sauerkraut balls that Hey Hey is known for. Or, you can grab something off the menu of the guest kitchen, Two Fat Indians.
Location: 361 E Whittier St, Columbus, OH, 43206
Website: Hey Hey (Facebook)
Fado Irish Pub
Fado may be a chain restaurant, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth visiting. From a traditional Irish Breakfast, including rashers and pudding, to fish and chips, both the menu and the ambiance will make your Irish eyes smile. In addition to several Irish beers on tap, Fado also has a selection of Irish whisky.
Location: 4022 Townsfair Way, Columbus, OH 43219
Website: Fado Irish Pub
Dempsey’s Food & Spirits
Located in the heart of downtown Columbus, Dempsey’s Food & Spirits offers a yummy menu with dishes like Guinness Stew and Cottage Pie, as well as plenty of drinks to get your evening started right. Dempsey’s also offers Notre Dame fans a friendly place to watch football games, whether they’re losing against Ohio State or not.
Location: 346 S High St, Columbus, OH 43215
Website: Dempsey’s Food and Spirits
Dublin Village Tavern
In addition to a large menu with plenty of Irish dishes, Dublin Village Tavern also offers some amazing drink choices, including Guinness, Harp, and Smithwick’s on tap. They also happen to have a massive offering of Irish Whisky, American Whiskey, and Scotch on the menu. The charm at Dublin Village Tavern feels super authentic, which is enhanced by the late-1800s building that houses the pub.
Location: 27 S. High St, Dublin, Ohio 43017
Website: Dublin Village Tavern
Byrne’s Pub
Established in 1995, Byrne’s Pub is the perfect place to grab a pint with friends after work. They offer both food and drink at Byrne’s and it’s frequently accompanied by live performances. Although Byrne’s is most known for the epic St. Patrick’s Day bash they put on, a visit anytime of year is well worth it.
Location: 1248 W. 3rd Ave., Columbus, OH 43212
Website: Byrne’s Pub
Cavan Irish Pub
Named after Cavan County in Ireland, Cavan is the only gay Irish pub in the state, according to their website. The bar has a fantastic covered patio, cold drinks at the bar, and even some epic drag shows. Very few pubs and bars can genuinely say that they are one-of-a-kind, but Cavan is and it’s amazing.
Location: 1409 S High St, Columbus, OH 43207
Website: Cavan Irish Pub
McClellan’s Pub
With over 500 choices of Scotch and Whiskey, McClellan’s Pub is the perfect place for a stiff drink and a delicious plate of fish and chips. The bar has some great daily specials, including $5 Guiness on Fridays.
Location: 6694 Sawmill Road, Columbus, OH 43235
Website: McClellan’s Pub