Innkeepers Around Town -Meehan's Irish Pub

As residents of this wonderful town, our innkeepers love visiting the local restaurants, shops, and attractions, gaining valuable experiences that we can then share with our guests. This way we can give real advice when you ask us where to eat or what to see. Keep an eye out on our blog for regular reviews of our favorite local hot spots!
This past Tuesday, I had the pleasure of dining at Meehan’s Irish Pub and Seafood House. Meehan’s is located right on the waterfront, in the historic Diskmuit’s House, built in 1917, a prime location for watching the boats come in the harbor. John Meehan, a veteran in the hotel industry, opened his restaurant in 2010 and, although he passed away in 2015, his friends and employees have continued to run the restaurant according to his dream and it has been a staple of the downtown food scene ever since. Immediately upon entering the restaurant, you can feel that this a place that it’s employees love and care for – the brass is polished, the tables clean, the staff smiling.
Meehan’s actually offers 3 different menus: the Irish Pub menu, which offers standards such as Shepard’s Pie, the delicious Tommy Dolan Burger, and the hands down best Reuben in town; the Backyard Island Cafe, serving up tropical delights such as the Pacific Rim Pork Belly Salad, Jerked Shrimp Tacos, and Conch Fritters; and their recently completed Johnny’s Oyster Bar, in memory of their beloved captain, John Meehan. The Oyster Bar serves decadently fresh oysters, raw, baked, or fire roasted, Clams Casino, and Cast Iron Calamari. I dined from the new Oyster Bar Menu.
Dinner started with one of Meehan’s signature cocktails, the Stubborn Mule. Jameson Black Barrel whiskey, ginger beer, and lime served  ice with a garnish of crystallized ginger made by the smiling barmaid, Megan. This delicious concoction was enjoyed alongside the Tuna Tartar appetizer. Chef Kris makes an amazing Tuna Tartar, marinated in a tangy ginger and soy sauce and served over cucumber salad and topped with fried wonton strings. As I was enjoying it, a smiling waitress came by and asked if I was enjoying it, as it was her favorite dish on the menu. I have to say, after eating it, it may be my favorite item on the menu as well.
My main dish, recommended by the manager, Corey, was the Fresh Catch Entree. A nice cut of mahi mahi grilled, served with a decadent shrimp and crab reduction, mashed potatoes, and lightly sauteed green beans. I’m not at all ashamed to say that I ate every single bite. This is fine dining in a relaxed, pub atmosphere. But I would feel just as comfortable ordering their homemade chicken fingers, famous macaroni and cheese, and a nice pint of Guiness.
Bonus – They have live music downstairs Thursday through Sundays.
 
What – Meehan’s Irish Pub and Seafood House
Where – 20 Avenida Menendez
When – Daily, 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 a.m.
How – Short 10-15 minute walk or 5 minute bike ride from St. Francis; reservations not needed
Why – Varied menu, vegetarian and gluten-free options available, always delicious