Flanagan's Ale House

It looks like a place you might hear the entire bar singing "Whiskey in the Jar," no? (Credit: Joseph Lord, special to Velocity)

To walk into Flanagan's is to be struck by the Irish-pubness of the place. Like all the Celtic-themed bars along this stretch, the Ale House hits your senses immediately with a large, dimly-lit bar, slightly uncomfortable booths and favorable beer selection.

The ornate ceiling is green, and the windows facing Baxter Avenue open wide so you can shout at passersby while you enjoy your imported brews. Then there's the traditional Irish music that makes Flanagan's feel just a little like something out of "The Departed."

What distinguishes it from other Irish pubs in the city is the diversity of its beer and food selection. Certainly, you may endear yourself to St. Patty's Day standards Guinness and Harp, but Flanagan's is a choice hangout almost in spite of these offerings.

In Flanagan's, patrons can enjoy an evening of authentic Irish pub atmosphere mixed with one of 17 draft beers, ranging from local offerings from Bluegrass Brewing Co. to Stella Artois to Bud Light. Oh, and Guinness, too. A fridge behind the bar is packed with dozens of distinct bottles that should appease the most elitist beer snob, and Flanagan's well-stocked bar can mix just about any stiffer drink, too.

There's nothing wrong with shepherd's pie, but the drawback of Irish pubs is that the selection doesn't always meet the tastes of everyone in a large group. If you're organizing a posse for an evening out, odds are at least someone will balk at bangers and mash or fish and chips, great beer selection aside.

Flanagan's offers these choices and much more. You can appease the pickiest of eaters with buffalo chicken sandwiches, Italian salads and specialty pizzas. (Those specialty pizzas are as good as any in the Highlands. Seriously.) Best yet, most items on the menu cost about $7 per serving.

In the rear, Flanagan's has an enclosed patio with well-spaced tables and an attractive fountain, although sitting there isn't quite as fun as people watching from the front booths. Once again, Flanagan's comes through with options, this time for seating.

Flanagan's is open from 11 a.m. to 4 a.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 4 a.m. Sunday.

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