St. Patrick’s Day has always been a cherished tradition in Erie, Pennsylvania – the hard-working little city on Presque Isle Bay. Since its founding more than two centuries ago, this historic settlement has served as home to generations of Irish; appropriately, their culture is evident throughout. If you are looking to experience your own little piece of that authentic Irish culture in Erie, there is no better way than to visit Erie’s best Irish pubs on St. Patrick’s Day.
Sullivan’s Pub and Eatery, located at 301 French Street, is a good place to start. Perched at the corner of French and Fourth Streets since 1905, Erie’s oldest Irish Pub boasts exposed brick and tin wainscoting in an old-fashioned setting that’s sure to put you in an Irish mood. Fancy a bite to eat? Sullivan’s offers a full line of fried American goodness. They also pour a mean Guinness at Sullivan’s, in addition to offering both domestic and imported beers at a reasonable price.
Right down the street from Sullivan’s sits Scully’s Pub and Pizzeria, at 408 State Street. One of Erie’s favorite St. Patrick’s Day Irish pubs, Scully’s presents a rustic interior that will be crammed wall-to-wall with thirsty revelers. Do not worry about struggling to get a drink; the best bartenders in Erie stand behind the old bar and are quick to serve. Scully’s also offers a robust menu of appetizers, salads, pizzas, and subs.
Two blocks down from Scully’s is Molly Brannigan’s, Erie’s most authentic Irish pub; entering through the front doors is like entering a different time and place. The solid oak bar that stretches down the side of the room is perforated with wooden dividers bearing crystal and glass panels. Stained glass adorns the entryways, and a huge stone fireplace near the back exudes a warmth and glow that sets the tone for the entire operation. Molly Brannigan’s has the largest selection of beers in this list, as well as the most interesting menu, which features standard American bar food as well as Irish favorites like Corned Beef, Cabbage, and Shepherd’s Pie. Molly’s, as the locals call it, is located at 506 State Street.
If you are lucky enough to be in Erie, Pennsylvania on St. Patrick’s Day, you have the chance to participate in a decades-old tradition by visiting three of Erie’s best Irish pubs, all located within three walking blocks of each other in historic downtown Erie; there is really no better day or no better way to experience Erie!