It’s not easy narrowing down a list of The Best Jersey Shore Irish pubs. While residents are searching for year-round Irish bars, vacationers are after a casual spot to relax after beach days. But what separates the best Irish pubs from the rest is more than a pint of Guinness. It’s the unmistakable hospitality, authentic menu, and legendary St. Patrick’s Day events that patrons love.
The town of Spring Lake and parts of the surrounding coastal areas of Sea Girt and Belmar are affectionately referred to by locals as the “Irish Riviera” due to the high concentration of Irish Americans in the area. But our guide to the 10 Best Jersey Shore Irish Pubs spans the entire coast, highlighting each county’s top spots. From lively, waterfront spots in Asbury Park, to historic pubs near the Atlantic City boardwalk, these are the Shore’s best.
Quick Click Guide: Keep scrolling to see the list, or select an NJ Region below to find the best Irish Pubs nearby.
| North Jersey | Central Jersey | South Jersey |
Listen to The Best of New Jersey Podcast!
The Best Jersey Shore Irish Pubs
Angelsea Pub
Where: North Wildwood
Details: Angelsea Pub is known as a “must-stop” for visitors passing through North Wildwood. The tavern itself is historic, as the building dates back to 1885 when it first opened as the Germantown Hotel. Locals champion the pub’s authentic Irish menu, from their tender Hot Roast Beef sandwich to Sean’s Shepherd’s Pie. Other Irish favorites include the Corned Beef Special and Grilled Reuben, as well as the French Onion Soup. Besides Guinness, the pub serves 17 beers on tap in addition to rotating seasonal cocktails and Irish Whiskey.
Brothers Daley
Where: Sea Bright
Details: This casual Irish Pub features some surprisingly upscale European-inspired cuisine. Patrons will find small plates like maple pork belly and deviled eggs with crab. Not to mention entrees like Pork Schnitzel, and the BD Burger made with house ground chuck and brisket. Even the drink menu includes specialty cocktails like the Silly Wabbit (rum, apples, and Trix cereal) and BD Dirty Martini. The pub is typically known as an intimate cocktail and dining experience, with St. Patrick’s Day festivities being the exception.
Dublin House Restaurant & Pub
Where: Red Bank
Details: Locals love the Dublin House for the food above all else. From their shepherd’s pie and Gaelic Chicken to the fan-favorite fish-n-chips, it’s an authentic Irish menu. The pub is also Guinness Academy certified, with the Perfect Pint badge to prove it. Otherwise, they host regular sports broadcasts for fans to watch both American football and soccer. They notably excel in the customer service department, with a great wait staff and bartenders. It’s always a good sign when so many first-time patrons leave feeling like family.
Johnny Mac House of Spirits
Where: Asbury Park
Details: Johnny Mac House of Spirits considers itself Asbury Park’s favorite bar. That’s a fierce debate in and of itself, but there’s no denying this eccentric watering hole’s popularity. The bar has Irish roots thanks to Founder John McGillion, and always leads Asbury Park’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade. In a brilliant marketing move that draws endless interest, Johnny Mac’s offers a free slice of pizza with every drink. (This is an all day, every day, year-round offer.) From holiday parties to outdoor patio hangouts, this is a great place to socialize.
Josie Kelly’s Public House
Where: Somers Point
Details: This local favorite Irish Pub is situated in a hundred-plus year old building. A great number of owners and businesses have passed through during that time, leading to Josie Kelly’s Public House. The pub invites patrons to experience the traditions and hospitality reminiscent of the western coast of Ireland. That includes a brunch, lunch, and dinner menu of authentic favorites like Bangers & Mash or Beef & Guinness Pie. For drinkers and nondrinkers alike, they serve a number of signature craft cocktails and alcohol-free libations.
Kelly’s Tavern
Where: Neptune City
Details: This authentic Irish Pub is a Jersey Shore landmark, with over 70 years of history to its name. For generations, the Kelly family has designed taverns that pay tribute to their Irish heritage. The current incarnation of Kelly’s Tavern is no different, emphasizing good food, great drinks, and impeccable service. The menu features filet Mignon sliders, French onion soup, Fish and chips, a corned beef platter, and more. Don’t leave without ordering the homemade cheesecake, ice cream sundae, or warm brownie cake dessert.
McDonagh’s Pub
Where: Keyport
Details: There is always something going on at McDonagh’s Pub. With two full bars, two different stages for live music and events, and 25 TVs for live sports, the pub attracts patrons of diverse interests. Besides a menu of Irish classics, they also serve fan favorite pizzas, sliders, quesadillas, and fire roasted chicken wings. Families should take note of the pub’s frequent Character Dining events, featuring everything from Leprechauns to Miss Rachel impersonators. (As well as their spacious, upstairs private event hall called “The Loft”.)
O’Donnell’s Pour House
Where: Sea Isle City
Details: O’Donnell’s Pour House is the only Irish Pub in Sea Isle City, and focuses on upscale casual dining. The menu is definitely what sets this pub apart from the pack, with a number of unexpected choices. This includes standouts like Shrimp & Chorizo Sausage Skewers and Pan Blackened Swordfish topped with grilled pineapple. Of course they have traditional Irish options such as braised short ribs, Shepherd’s Pie, and their signature O’Donnell’s crab cakes. Kids can enjoy options like chicken fingers, pasta, and grilled cheese.
St. Stephen’s Green Publick House
Where: Spring Lake Heights
Details: Top notch service and quality Irish cuisine combine to make St. Stephen’s Green a winner. This Irish pub offers lunch, brunch, dinner, and dessert, with everything from traditional Irish breakfasts to Irish bread pudding. Patrons also praise their “Celtic” chicken wings, which come in Buffalo, Irish Whiskey BBQ, or Dublin dry rub flavors. The cozy atmosphere and attentive staff really help sell the authentic Irish hospitality St. Stephens Green is going for. Their must-try desserts include Irish Bread & Butter Pudding and Banoffee Pie.
The Irish Pub & Inn
Where: Atlantic City
Details: This cash-only Atlantic City hotspot doubles in the tourist-filled summer months as a hotel. The building is a cornerstone of the area, still standing after prohibition, two world wars, hurricanes, and high tides. The menu features their signature app, the St. James Potatoes, in addition to sandwiches, platters, salads, and more. The pub is equally famous for creating their own holiday, known as Bag Day, an annual March 18 tradition. Note: The Irish Pub is currently closed for renovations, but will reopen after completion.
Click Here To See More Best of New Jersey Lists.
Jersey Shore Irish Pubs FAQs
Top Photo: St. Stephen’s Green Publick House / Website