Embark on a gastronomic journey through central Ohio, where every bite tells a story of Ireland's rich culinary traditions. Discover hidden gems serving up the best of Emerald Isle cuisine, all year round.
Imagine starting your day with a plate that captures the essence of Ireland itself. At McClellan’s Pub, diners are treated to a near-perfect rendition of a full Irish breakfast. This meal features two eggs prepared to perfection, accompanied by bangers, sausage patties, crisp bacon, hash browns, juicy tomatoes, earthy mushrooms, and fresh toast. The inclusion of beans would elevate this dish to its most authentic form, but even without them, it remains a stellar choice available throughout the day.
Located conveniently in the Northwest Side, McClellan’s Pub invites visitors to savor this hearty breakfast anytime they wish. For those eager to immerse themselves in Irish culture from the moment they rise, there’s no better place to begin their day than here. The atmosphere alone transports patrons to another world, enhancing the dining experience beyond mere sustenance.
Fado presents a unique twist on the classic shepherd’s pie, redefining expectations while staying true to its origins. Instead of relying solely on lamb, as tradition dictates, Fado incorporates colcannon—a delightful mix of mashed potatoes and cabbage—into the recipe. This innovative approach layers ground beef and vegetables steeped in a luscious sauce beneath the creamy potato topping, creating a dish both comforting and intriguing.
Situated at Easton Town Center, Fado beckons food enthusiasts to explore its menu filled with such creative adaptations of time-honored recipes. Each ingredient is carefully selected to ensure maximum flavor, resulting in a dish that pays homage to Ireland while introducing modern flair.
For lovers of robust flavors, Dempsey’s Food & Spirits delivers with its exquisite Guinness beef stew. Prepared using pot roast, tender carrots, onions, redskin potatoes, and the iconic stout beer, this stew embodies everything wonderful about Irish comfort foods. The rich aroma wafting through the air upon entering Dempsey’s Downtown location sets the stage for an unforgettable meal.
This establishment prides itself on offering authentic Irish touches amidst its diverse offerings. As one savors each spoonful of the stew, they’re reminded of Ireland’s agricultural roots and the importance placed on hearty meals during colder months. It’s more than just dinner; it’s a connection to history and tradition.
No exploration of Irish cuisine would be complete without mentioning fish and chips, a staple enjoyed worldwide yet deeply tied to Ireland’s coastal past. Old Bag of Nails elevates this simple pleasure with hand-battered cod fillets fried until golden brown. Served alongside steak fries and coleslaw, this dish satisfies cravings for something crispy and satisfying.
With ten locations scattered across central Ohio, Old Bag of Nails ensures accessibility for all who wish to partake in this classic treat. Additionally, their New England Reuben sandwich introduces another layer of creativity, combining fried fish with marble rye bread, Swiss cheese, coleslaw, and thousand-island dressing. Such versatility showcases how adaptable and enduring Irish culinary traditions truly are.
At Byrne’s Pub, the humble bangers and mash transform into a gourmet affair worthy of praise. Grilled smoked sausages rest atop velvety mashed potatoes before being adorned with grilled onions and drizzled generously with brown gravy. On the side, pesto green beans add a pop of color and freshness to balance out the richness of the main components.
Fifth by Northwest residents flock to Byrne’s Pub not only for its delicious food but also for the warm ambiance that mirrors traditional Irish pubs. Every detail, from the decor to the music playing softly in the background, enhances the overall dining experience, making it feel like home away from home.
Dublin Village Tavern honors Irish culinary customs with its Irish kettle dinner, featuring corned beef cooked alongside cabbage, carrots, and potatoes. To further enhance the presentation, a banger and rashers accompany the dish, providing additional texture and taste dimensions. This meal encapsulates the spirit of communal feasting so often associated with Irish gatherings.
In contrast, Valter’s at the Maennerchor brings unexpected charm to the occasion by incorporating German influences into their celebration of St. Patrick’s Day. Here, chef Valter Veliu crafts marinated, boiled, and roasted corned beef served with cabbage and warm baguettes. Despite the fusion elements, the dish retains its core identity, proving that cultural boundaries needn’t hinder authenticity.