Irish bars (and imitations) are a dime a dozen in our fair city, so it’s a comfort to come across one with such a distinct identity after only being open a couple of weeks.
One step inside new Loop hang The Kerryman, and you’ll see the County Kerry-bred owners put a lot of thought into the space. An Irish design firm has created a polished, upscale interior with leather booths, lots of mahogany and granite-topped bars. With three levels and a unique, winding layout, we made some great discoveries while navigating this spot.
Inside: Sail on up to the mezzanine level and get cozy in a leather booth, or continue to the third floor and settle in at high-top tables with leather-padded benches and chairs. We like the “secret” nook with an overstuffed leather sofa and table.
The top levels offer a bird’s-eye view of the action at the main bar, or slide around to the back of the second floor and hit the more secluded bar and party space. We hear an outdoor patio with hanging plants is in the works; we can’t wait.
Drinks: We love bartenders who can pull a slow and steady pint; Guinness, Harp, Bass, Smithwicks and Magner’s Irish Cider are all on tap ($4.50-$6), which means you can order Black & Tans, Half & Halfs and Snakebites. A half-dozen other drafts round out the selection, or try a bottled beer ($4-$4.50) or glass of wine ($6-$9). There’s also plenty of whiskey and liquor.
Food: Upscale pub fare delivers on taste and presentation. The Irishman’s Quesadilla combines appetizing Emerald Isle cheddar, bacon, tomatoes and spinach ($6.95); the baked, three-cheese mac ($8.95) topped with crunchy potato chips had us craving a second helping. Other options include sandwiches, salads, burgers, fish and chips, chicken pot pie, filet mignon and all-day Irish breakfast.
Crowd: The corner location at Clark and Erie Streets draws professionals for an after-work tipple, including film critic Richard Roeper. From twentysomethings to the 40-plus set, the crowd’s settling in for some good conversation, starting off the night, or chatting up a nearby cutie.
Dress: After-work duds (think loosened neckties) or dressy-casual. On the weekend, jeans are the norm for guys and girls, though we did spot a few ladies who looked ready for a night at the clubs.
Service: Friendly, extremely attentive, and professionally put together in black pants, ties and lavender button-downs.
Music: Rock and pop during the week, and managers are trying out DJs on the weekends (with live acts possible as well). We give two thumbs down to last week’s mix master; full-throttle “Baby Got Back” doesn’t match the sophisticated interior.
Bottom line: Drop your anchor here for a night of good times and good Guinness.
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kmbudell@tribune.com
