What makes a good Pub?

Be honest, what’s your idea of the best type pub to enjoy your favorite tipple for an hour or more? This is entirely a personal taste of the individual but we’re laying it out here because well, we’re the Irish Tipple and we think it’s worth discussing. So without further adieu here are some factors which go into making a proper pub.

1. Atmosphere: Now it goes without saying, a good pub should have a welcoming atmosphere that makes customers feel comfortable and relaxed like they’ve just tumbled onto the set of Cheers. Sometimes you want bright lights at other times low lighting, regardless it’s got to include music.
2. Quality drinks: A good pub should be capable of spinning up any cocktail, tap beer, wine, spirits, and a non-alcoholic bev. The drinks should be well-made and served at the right temperature.
3. Pub grub: While not all pubs serve food, those that do should offer a good selection of crowd pleasers that are freshly prepared using quality ingredients. A staple of pubs in Ireland is the ham and cheese sandwich called a “toastie” they’re a perfectly salty and savory.
4. Friendly staff: The bartender and staff at a good pub should be friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive. They should be able to recommend drinks and food, be able to tell a joke and answer any questions.
5. Entertainment: It’s said we don’t communicate enough these days but entertainment, in the form of live music, quiz nights, or sporting events on TV. All these go into creating a lively atmosphere, diversions and return customers.
6. Cleanliness and hygiene: It’s ok to be edgy but in looks only. Everyone wants a pub with personality sans the sticky bar tops and floors, reasonably clean restrooms and dishwasher cleaned glasses and dishes – meaning they’re not serving us yesterday’s lipstick on a pint glass.
7. Loud & Crowded or Not: When you walk into the pub do you want to feel like the you’re the only patron who gets pampered service or do you like crowds? We a the Irish Tipple are in the latter category and that’s the way it will stay.
8. Is the pub or bar dog friendly? This has recently become a big ask amongst dog owners. Call ahead to find out if you can bring your pooch along on a leash to settle in aside you at your local watering hole.

Overall, a good pub should provide a welcoming environment, quality drinks and food, friendly staff, entertainment, reasonably clean standards, all this without looking like they’re trying.