The Brazen Head Pub: Ireland's oldest pub and my very best pub experience. Yes, even though it is considered "touristy", Janis, Roz and I had a blast here. The pub claims to have been in existence since 1198. The current pub was built in the 1750's and is lined with dark wood paneling, old photographs, autographed money, police and firefighter patches from around the world. They showcase traditional ("Trad") music every night.
We came in for some lunch and a pint. I had typical pub grub - fried shrimp - which was fine but not remarkable. Our bar maid, Sophia, from Bulgaria struck up a great conversation with us. She was terribly persuasive - kept encouraging us to go into the other room to enjoy the music - but it was chuck-a-block full. She kept her eye out and when some customers left, she saved us seats right behind the musicians. Of course, we had to stay for our "turd" beer! Loved the spoon player - really talented! I'd love to add a video clip but that would make this website sooooo slooooowwww.
Needless to say, I'll remember this stop for the rest of my life - imagine, it's getting dark, the skies have opened up and torrents of rain are falling, you look out the window from your cozy warm seat in the pub, feeling the heat from the other patrons and the fire, little lights are glowing and reflecting off the pictures around you, your belly is full and you are enjoying a lovely pint while listening to some of the finest trad music ever! While we could have stayed there forever, we are anxious to meet up with our group. . . .
We came in for some lunch and a pint. I had typical pub grub - fried shrimp - which was fine but not remarkable. Our bar maid, Sophia, from Bulgaria struck up a great conversation with us. She was terribly persuasive - kept encouraging us to go into the other room to enjoy the music - but it was chuck-a-block full. She kept her eye out and when some customers left, she saved us seats right behind the musicians. Of course, we had to stay for our "turd" beer! Loved the spoon player - really talented! I'd love to add a video clip but that would make this website sooooo slooooowwww.
Needless to say, I'll remember this stop for the rest of my life - imagine, it's getting dark, the skies have opened up and torrents of rain are falling, you look out the window from your cozy warm seat in the pub, feeling the heat from the other patrons and the fire, little lights are glowing and reflecting off the pictures around you, your belly is full and you are enjoying a lovely pint while listening to some of the finest trad music ever! While we could have stayed there forever, we are anxious to meet up with our group. . . .