Words by Johanna Harlow
Raise a glass to St. Pat at these charming Irish pubs.
alhambra irish house
Redwood City
There’s nothing like soda bread and stout on a fine spring day. If you’re in Redwood City, find your way to Alhambra Irish House, an earthy establishment with exposed brick walls and wood plank floorboards. That old-school atmosphere alludes to a storied past: a theater and saloon once stood on this site in the 1900s, and wiley outlaw Wyatt Earp once frequented it. Nowadays, guests happily quaff Kilkenny and tuck into hearty shepherd’s pies with ground beef and veggies, served in a rich gravy and topped with a creamy mash. Whether you’re fancying a cocktail or a cold one, this pub comes through. For a mixed drink in keeping with the spirit of the holiday, try the Dubliner (Teeling Irish whiskey mixed with Grand Marnier, Punt e Mes vermouth and orange bitters). Return for live music and line dancing lessons. 831 Main Street. Open Wednesday through Monday.
molly o’s
San Carlos
For a grand time over a glass of Guinness, pay Molly O’s a visit. In addition to a spacious layout and upstairs seating, this San Carlos gastropub goes modern with contemporary chandeliers and intricate green tilework behind the bar. The envelope-pushing menu dishes up Cal-Mex Irish fusion (think burgers with Irish bacon and quesadillas with corned beef) alongside more traditional fare. Try the sturdy Irish stew loaded with Guinness-infused beef, veggies and potatoes alongside potato skins and a tumbler of Jameson. Sláinte! 1163 San Carlos Avenue. Open daily.
fiddler’s green
Millbrae
Top of the mornin’ to ya! Fiddler’s Green greets the day with traditional Irish breakfast foods like black and white pudding, baked beans, bangers, grilled tomatoes and potato bread. If you’re there for a drink, choose from plenty of pale ales, IPAs and pilsners—or warm up with a splash of whiskey in your Irish coffee. Stained glass windows, parchment-colored walls and a wooden sign hanging out front add old-timey charm, so top up your glass and settle in for a spell. 333 El Camino Real. Open daily.