I tend to be a frequenter of bookstores, bakeries, and coffee shops. It’s the deep armchairs, cinnamon-sugary air, and coffee beans that practically whistle for me (and I dutifully come running every time). I’m discovering a different landscape that’s previously been uncharted by my armchair-loving self—that of pubs. One in particular, The Irish Nobleman, which is located near downtown Chicago.

To start, the name is simply gold. It paints a picture of Irish culture combined with historic richness. I imagine not just any old pub that merely commoners of, let’s say the 1800’s, would frequent but one fit for the high-brow tastes of a nobleman as well. The name, along with the beautiful exterior, is both a clue and a treat before you walk through the front doors.

Once inside it’s clear to see the pub and restaurant have been given an apt nomenclature. As a coffee shop and patisserie connoisseur, I’m accustomed to light, bright surroundings of coziness-meets-softness. The Irish Nobleman is refreshingly their opposite.

Classic rock hits or Irish music pulses through the speakers as your eye takes in the rich and dark décor, combined in the best way imaginable. (There is also a jukebox.) The dark wood of the expansive bar, mahogany paneling, etched ceiling tiles, and wooden tables ground the room in a down-to-earth ruddy elegance. And we can’t leave out the many TV monitors for the sports enthused or the green bar stool tops—a fitting not to Ireland.

As you enter, it feels like you’ve stepped into another dimension. This isn’t just another shop or store with a factory same-ness you’re accustomed to seeing, but an other-worldly quality that the typical eatery is severely lacking. The Irish Nobleman offers a time travel to the best parts of the past.

And it’s no wonder the pub is so unique, its interior was constructed by Irish owner Declan Morgan, a carpenter by trade. Using master builder skills, an eye for detail, and the talent of salvaging historic details from old buildings, he constructed a one-of-a-kind bar experience fit for television back in 1999. The building location is quite historic in itself as it’s very first Chicago restaurant was established in 1933. Declan and his wife run the pub in this current day, and it attracts visitors from all around the city, and across the globe. 

The bar wall is a salvaged 100-year-old arched wooden piece complete with an expansive mirror that catches the light from the rustic chandeliers and roaring fire. The bar itself is fitted with an old church pew fused into the tail end. Where else will you find such curated furnishings?  

I keep expecting to see a hobbit walking around or to get a tap on the shoulder from a suited Barney Stinson asking me if I’ve met his friend Ted. But this isn’t The Lord of the Rings or How I Met Your Mother, but a cool bar in real life that’s second to none.

Adding to the stunning surroundings are the delicious menu offerings. I have never tasted a more amazing shepherd’s pie as the one at the Irish Nobleman and it far surpasses my own home recipe (note to self improve home recipe).

The crispy breading of the Guinness battered fish and chips coupled with the scratch-made tartar sauce will have you eating like a Medieval times peasant or *cough* so I’ve heard. If hand-cut fresh french fries are more your speed, there’s always the parmesan garlic fries or black truffle fries (topped with real truffle zest!) to send you into a delightful food coma of bliss. Simply put, you can’t go wrong with any of the fresh gourmet options.

And I haven’t even touched on the outdoor seating area complete with a turfed surface for pups or the large room for parties and events. Did I mention they have coffee and pastries? Hmm…my typical coffee shop and bakery haunts look out!

I never used to understand the appeal of a bar. Watching Cheers with my parents during my childhood, I thought of bars as stark, boring, and void of any visual appeal or warmth. Now, after experiencing a space as grandly historical yet inviting as the Irish Nobleman, I can see why people seek out a pint of lager and that place where you are known by name. But not just any place—a place fit for a nobleman. And an Irish one at that. Slainte!

Irish Nobleman Pub is located at: 1367 W Erie St, Chicago, IL. Visit: www.IrishNobleman.com for more details and seasonal specials.