The Irish Pub Hearkens Back to Atlantic City’s 1920s Heyday

STYLE

Amid the mix of high-rise casinos and abandoned yards steps from the beach on St. James Place, this celebrated establishment hearkens back to AC’s 1920s heyday. Its restored tiles, old wooden tables, Tiffany-style lamps and brass-railed bar are surrounded by vintage beer and boxing posters and newspaper front pages. A few old-timers, perched on barstools, complete the atmospherics.

THE SCOOP

The Irish Pub supposedly tiptoed through Prohibition as a speakeasy. Richard and Cathy Burke bought it in 1972. They have meticulously maintained the historic integrity and still personally work the room. The prices are something of a throwback, too. Most everything is under $11.

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THE MENU

You’re not coming for culinary exotica. Think: ham and cheddar, a steerburger, corned beef and the occasional meatloaf special. It may be one of the last places to offer a liverwurst-and-onion sandwich. The beer-battered fish and chips with steak fries hit the spot. Malt vinegar is awesome on the fried cod. Spirits lean toward hard cider and Irish whiskey, with some 16 beers on tap—including Irish stalwarts Guinness, Killian’s and Smithwick’s.

HEADS UP

Literally, keep your head up if you are taller than 6 feet—ceilings are low, decor even lower. In warmer months, sit on the patio. Cash only.