Feed me, I’m Irish

BY KAREN E. BOWES
Staff Writer

Above, the outside of McDonagh’s Pub, Keyport; top left, the scene inside. KEYPORT — For those craving a bit of Irish pub culture, McDonagh’s is serving it up on a plate.

Bangers and mash, fish and chips, and shepherd’s pie are a few of the staples offered at the new downtown Keyport bar and grill.

“We’re just trying to bring a bit of Ireland to Keyport,” said principal owner and namesake Mattie McDonagh. “It’s something authentic.”

Born in Enfield in County Meath, McDonagh and his wife, Maggie, chose the location based on its architecture and access to the waterfront.

PHOTOS BY KAREN BOWES Once an antique shop, “We rebuilt it from the floor up,” Mrs. McDonagh said.

Large and airy, the space is now decorated to look like a typical Irish village. By using quaint storefront façades built into the length of the dining area, diners are offered a unique view.

“We built Joyce’s Book Shop [a display inside the restaurant] for James Joyce, my favorite Irish writer,” said Mrs. McDonagh.

A post office, tweed shop and book store complete the “village.”

“You get a warm, cozy feeling,” said manager Kenny Lawlor of the decor. “Almost like an oasis. It’s a bit of a surprise when you walk in.”

According to Lawlor, the building once housed an archery club.

“Local historians are putting together a package for us,” said Lawlor. “We’ll be dedicating an entire wall to the history of the building.”

Lawlor said downtown was the perfect place for the new pub.

“I see Keyport as an up-and-coming kind of place,” Lawlor said. “Here, we have the opportunity to start at the ground up, ahead of the curve.”

For barflies, there are 10 beers on tap including Guinness, Bass, Yuengling and Carlsburg. Eight televisions are tuned in to all things sports. The music is Irish pop, rock and folk.

In the future, the McDonaghs hope to host spoken word events and live Irish music.

“We’re hoping to do it monthly,” Mrs. McDonagh said.

McDonagh’s is located at the corner of Broad and West Front streets, Keyport. Prices range from $9.95 to $19.95 for entrees, and $6.95 to $8.95 for appetizers. Call (732) 264-0999 for more information.