Whether you’re interested in watching a football game or just returning a few pints, you’ll find a great deal of joy in Austin’s Irish pubs.
Fado
The atmosphere at Fado is warm and friendly, and the design invites you to mingle. The bar in the center of the space is roughly oval in shape, so it can sit on all sides. In the standing room area, there are practical little shelves for your drinks. Outside, the long, narrow courtyard is a great place for people-watching in good weather. Boxed chicken quesadilla might be the perfect pub meal: Jack cheese between boxtie potatoes with sour cream. Hmm Although the bar is popular with singles, it doesn’t look like a singles bar.
214 West 4th Street; (512) 457-0172
BD Riley
A low-key pub in the midst of the madness of 6th Street, BD Riley’s is a good place to watch football games or listen to live blues or classic rock. The menu is much more varied than you would expect in an Irish pub. In addition to above-average fish and chips, the kitchen also serves excellent Reuben, Irish nachos (thick cheese fries), and delicious chicken tortilla soup. 204 East 6th Street; (512) 494-1335
Sean Patrick’s Irish Pub and Texas Food
The only Irish pub in San Marcos, Sean Patrick, caters to college kids, tourists, and mall shoppers. The crowd can be an odd mix of people, but the food is consistently top-notch, and there is a wide selection of beers. You’ll find plenty of cheap chicken wings and beer at happy hour. The restaurant has achieved total mastery of the potato – baked, fried, mashed, topped with chili – you name it. It’s not the type of place to have a quiet conversation on a Friday night, but if you’re looking for a fun bar that’s not too crazy, Sean Patrick has you covered.
202 East San Antonio Street, San Marcos; (512) 392-7310.
