ROCHESTER, N.Y. — St.Patrick's Day is approaching and Rochester is cholk full of great pubs to help fuel the luck o' the Irish. Although there are a number of places that could satisfy any of St. Patrick's tastes, here are a few that are definitely worth checking out for the holiday.
— Johnny's Irish Pub at the corner of Culver and Merchants is currently in its 20th year. Featuring 22 taps of craft and local beers that are always changing to bring in the best of the best. Johnny's offers a food and beer pairing the last Wednesday of every month with a different brewery or mix. Also a great spot for music lovers as Johnny's features live bands at least four nights per week, and often more! Look for their float in the parade and for those who go to Johnny's don't miss out on the Reuben!
— MacGregor's Grill and Tap Room on Empire Boulevard is a beer lover's paradise. There are currently five MacGregor's in the area, but this one stands out for its expansive dining room and extensive menu options. MacGregor's has been serving the Rochester area for about 30 years with the Empire location doing so for the last 12. On Saint Patrick's Day, they will be serving fresh corned beef and cabbage with carrots and potatoes. Featuring 84 beers on draft, yes 84 beers on draft, with plenty of daily and monthly beer specials, plus they have recently started selling signature cocktails. And although it's not a traditional Irish dish, the chicken wings are a top-notch choice at this establishment.
— Shamrock Jack's next Sea Breeze is an Irish pub dream come true. Since 2003 they've been serving up exquisite steak, seafood and more. However, for St. Patrick's Day they feature traditional Irish meals exclusively — the corned beef and cabbage pairs perfectly with a Jameson or cold Guinness. Shamrock's has one of the largest St. Patrick's day gatherings in the region — a multiple day festival of sorts with a huge party tent in the parking lot, live music and, of course, tons of great Irish beer and food. Opens at 8 a.m. Saturday for the holiday.
— Murphy's Law at the corner of East and Alexander is the perfect place to enjoy the St. Patrick's Day Parade. With more than 100 beers from around the world, and a spectacular scotch selection, this bar has it all. Open seven days per week, Murphy's offers lunch, dinner and late-night menu items. Of course, expect a very lively crowd for this holiday weekend!
— Magpie Irish Pub is a cozy bar in the heart of Park Avenue. Open until 2 a.m. every day, Magpie offers a wide selection of beers, wine, sandwiches, soups and more. Grab a seat at the long, beautiful bar, or lounge in a comfy booth. Magpie is the perfect spot to enjoy anything from a casual lunch date to a rowdy night out.
— Caverly's Irish Pub in the heart of the South Wedge. Established in 2005, Caverly's always offers great drink specials. Don't come hungry because there is no kitchen, but that's because they focus on beverages, and do a spectacular job at that with plenty of beer and whiskey options. True to the spirit of traditional Irish pubs, Caverly's has a very homey feeling, as if you just wandered into your best friend's living room, and the patrons are just as friendly as the atmosphere!
Wherever you choose to celebrate, have a safe, fun St. Patrick's Day! Cheers!