Peanut shells on the floor, a properly poured pint of Guinness and a shot of Jameson with strangers who will soon be friends can make for the perfect Irish pub experience. This is exactly what you find at
McKinnon's in Hartford.
On any given night, McKinnon's has drink specials, entertainment and giveaways. This is one of the few bars that offers live traditional Irish music every weekend, and a free buffet on Fridays from 4 p.m.-7 p.m. And the best part—never a cover.
Food: Traditional pub grub, with Gaelic inspired names. The portions are large, the food is delicious and the prices are right.
Booze: Serves only the best Irish beer and whiskey. Think while you drink on Thursday nights during the trivia battle, which draws a big crowd. Drink for the liquid courage to help you make your way to the microphone for Monday night karaoke.
Decor: A traditional looking pub, with plenty of sports paraphernalia and fun reading material on the walls. Irish rugby jerseys, Guinness posters and hardwood bar add to the Irish atmosphere. There's a pool table, too. But it can be difficult to play in the cramped space if there's a crowd. Speaking of which...
Crowd: You need not be Irish to enter. This is a place to go after work for a few drinks. Whether you stay in your work clothes or change into your jammies, you’ll feel at home.
Sounds: If there’s no karaoke, trivia or live band, you can count on hearing some U2, over and over. So all you U2 fans out there, this is your place.
Insider tip: There’s minimal service here. Get your own menu, write down your order and bring it to the bartender, then wait for someone to bring your meal.
Bottom Line: One of the best places to be on St. Patrick’s Day in Hartford. McKinnon’s is also a great place to make new friends and foggy memories.
McKinnon's Irish Pub114 Asylum Street, Hartford
860-524-8174
Mon.-Thu., 11 a.m.-1 a.m., Fri.-Sat., 11 a.m.-2 a.m. Closed Sun.
Happy hour: Mon.-Fri., 4 p.m.-7 p.m.
