“Oh it is the biggest mix-up that you have ever seen, my father he was orange and me mother she was green.” This catchy ditty is a legendary Irish Rovers tune. Having a father that was raised in Belfast, Northern Ireland and a mother who is deep rooted in County Kerry, St. Patrick’s Day was always a bit of a challenge for me. I was that student every year that was decked out in both orange and green. It was not the greatest of fashion statements, but I certainly added some color to the pubs I visited.
If green beer and amateur U2 covers are your idea of a good time when celebrating this Americanized holiday, than read no further. As St. Patrick’s Day falls on a Tuesday most of us have to report to work the next day and it may be advisable to celebrate with close friends with a wee bit of traditional craic and a proper pint of Guinness.
On the North Shore make sure to pay visit to this trio of pubs. When you tuck into these welcoming taverns you might just be lucky enough to hear the lilt of an authentic Irish brogue, meet the owners, and hear some genuine music to complement your good ole’ corn beef and cabbage. My advice to you is try to go early in the day or evening to avoid the “eejits” that crave that green beer. Sláinte!
The Port Tavern
84 State St, Newburyport 978-465-1006
The Port Tavern is always packed from opening to close. Co-Owners Dermot Bolger, David Buckley, and Phillip Wynne oversee this cozy but boisterous place that will lend for a great spot to enjoy some cheerful ditties and local Irish fare. Stop in between 4 and 6 and catch Sheila Linehan a local darling from the Emerald Isle. She will feature many of the ballads one yearns to hear. theporttavern.com.
Olde Main Street Pub
121 Essex St, Salem 978-594-8188
Newcomer Olde Main Street Pub has brought new life to downtown Salem. At the helm, co-owners Kiernan O’Neil and chef Tim Caldwell have an intimate space where you immediately feel at home. Kiernan’s most recent tweet proclaims “Few weeks to St.Patricks Day. Make a date to visit us. Craic will be 90.” They promise a fine array of Irish whiskey’s, a winning Scotch selection—and regular customers unanimously claim that their Guinness pour rivals the best. The menu, which is served from 12 to close, will include chef Caldwell’s (made from scratch) Guinness beef stew, Shepard’s pie and corn beef and cabbage. As there will be no live music, it’s a good option for more personalized conversations.
The Peddler’s Daughter Irish Restaurant & Pub
45 Wingate Street, Haverhill 978-372-9555
The Peddler’s Daughter in Haverhill holds a solid place in this community and welcomes visitors early that day for a tasty Irish Breakfast from 8 a.m. until 11 p.m. and Irish-born Michael Conneely is the owner and chef and is a cheerful staple in the community. If you want to hear live music throughout the day this is the spot. The lineup includes the following: The Pop Farmers 11am-3pm, Bag Pipers and then A Ghlacadh Ceathair (Take 4) from 5.30pm-10pm. thepeddlersdaughter.com.