Hey there, folks! So, listen up – McGillin's Olde Ale House, just got crowned the top Irish bar in the whole country! But guess what? They haven't poured a drop of Guinness for almost 20 years. Yep, you heard that right!
And you know what's cool? This St. Patrick's Day is gonna be the same. A McGillin's spokesperson spilled the beans to NBC10. Now, why, you ask? Well, the oldest Irish joint in the nation has a thing for beer that's got the Irish vibe. They're all about the ones "exclusively brewed in Ireland." That's where O'Hara's Irish Craft Stout steps in, and guess what? It's the only Irish stout in the U.S. that's brewed exclusively in Ireland.
Now, here's the kicker – McGillin's and O'Hara's are like best buds for almost two decades. It's the only non-American drink you'll find at McGillin's. And the owners, Mary Ellen and Chris Mullins Sr., they've been steering the ship for more than 30 years. They're all about staying true to O'Hara's, and that's a big deal.
Even though they're not serving the most famous Irish beer, McGillin's still snagged the top spot on Travel Channel's list of best Irish bars in America, right before St. Paddy's Day. There's this wild rumor about Abraham Lincoln stopping by for a pint in the year McGillin's opened. They can't confirm it, but hey, they're not denying it either – it's like their own little historical mystery.
March is a big deal at McGillin's. Everything turns emerald green, and they're dishing out Irish treats like bangers and mash and Irish lamb stew. And don't forget the Irish Potato Martini – a St. Paddy's Day special that's a must-try.
The customers are totally on board with McGillin's Irish love. The regulars, especially the Irish bunch, are singing their praises on social media. St. Patrick's Day? That's like McGillin's Super Bowl. Expect surprise visits from Irish dancers, bagpipers, and Philly's St. Paddy's Day parade on March 10.
Oh, and here's the scoop – the bar's opening an hour earlier on the big day, from 10 a.m. to 2 a.m. There's a cover fee, but you get in and out privileges if there's space.