Ireland is synonymous with pubs. Traditionally, the
"Pub" was the focal point of community life. Most
pubs started as grocery shops, and subsequently
were granted permission to sell spirits (liquor). Very
soon sales of alcohol exceeded groceries, and most
store owners converted their premises to what we
today call "public houses" or "pubs". Thus many
small villages in Ireland have up to 9 or 10 pubs in
their small neighbourhoods.
For some, alcohol encouraged joyful moments, an
emigration of the soul from sometimes unhappy
realities. But for most people, the pub was there for
sheer delight. You never knew who you would
meet, what deal would be sealed or what piece of
gossip you'd hear.
"Pub" was the focal point of community life. Most
pubs started as grocery shops, and subsequently
were granted permission to sell spirits (liquor). Very
soon sales of alcohol exceeded groceries, and most
store owners converted their premises to what we
today call "public houses" or "pubs". Thus many
small villages in Ireland have up to 9 or 10 pubs in
their small neighbourhoods.
For some, alcohol encouraged joyful moments, an
emigration of the soul from sometimes unhappy
realities. But for most people, the pub was there for
sheer delight. You never knew who you would
meet, what deal would be sealed or what piece of
gossip you'd hear.
Most Irish pubs like the "Irish Harp" in
Niagara on the Lake had "Snugs". These
were small private rooms that were adjacent
to the main bar. Entry was by key only, that
were mostly held by the local priest. Here he
could enter secretly, often unseen by his local
congregation, and have a "halfin" - a measure
of whiskey.
What's best about an Irish Pub? Undoubtedly
it's atmosphere. Those once tobacco stained
walls contain unrivalled friendliness and good
humor.
Niagara on the Lake had "Snugs". These
were small private rooms that were adjacent
to the main bar. Entry was by key only, that
were mostly held by the local priest. Here he
could enter secretly, often unseen by his local
congregation, and have a "halfin" - a measure
of whiskey.
What's best about an Irish Pub? Undoubtedly
it's atmosphere. Those once tobacco stained
walls contain unrivalled friendliness and good
humor.
The Irish Harp has tried to
reproduce that warmth and
welcome. Owned by Trevor Smyth
from Co. Derry Ireland, the interior
of the "Harp" was built in Ireland
and shipped to the beautiful town of
Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Experience the food in mahogany
surrounded counters and walls.
Relax with a pint of beer in our snug
or Claddagh rooms. There's always a
welcome on the mat!
"Home is where the Harp is."
reproduce that warmth and
welcome. Owned by Trevor Smyth
from Co. Derry Ireland, the interior
of the "Harp" was built in Ireland
and shipped to the beautiful town of
Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Experience the food in mahogany
surrounded counters and walls.
Relax with a pint of beer in our snug
or Claddagh rooms. There's always a
welcome on the mat!
"Home is where the Harp is."
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