115 East 5th Street
Guinness Tag: $6.50 | Overall Rating: 8.40
Since the beginning of time, I've been saying that the best time to go to an Irish Pub is when the sun is still shining. Connolly's on Fifth is a fine example of why I make that statement. During the daytime, you'll be able to chat with the bartenders and locals, you'll be able to appreciate the authentic decor & craftmanship and even enjoy some GAA. During the nightfall you can expect sticky floors, a dance club vibe, incredibly crowded spaces, and a potential cover charge.
We aren't going to waste our time at night here and neither should you, so let's only focus on the day shift. This beautiful Pub has been around for almost 25 years, and they pour a marvelous pint of the black stuff. Their Irish Coffees are quite popular and the whiskey selection gets the job done so long as you're not a total snob.
They are proud supporters of the GAA and broadcast all of the games for those looking to find them (Gaelic Athletic Association). They provide a loft upstairs for when the place starts to get crowded, and the curb appeal has a traditional feel to it that resembles those in NY and even Dublin. There's certainly Craic to be found here. Brogues and Ireland natives are behind the counter most of the time and many of the patrons are friendly and engaging. At one point the bartender who grew up 20 minutes west of Dublin joked around with us about the Cincinnati Bengals football team.
The building itself is over 100 years old, and it used to be an old wood shop and horse stable. Now, the interior of the building is filled with police badges, autographs, Celtic memorabilia, exposed brick, and other unique decor. You'll find real candles throughout the place that gives the dark room some charm and warmth, and you're forced to enjoy the typical small and grungy toiletry that many Irish Pubs obtain.
At the end of the day, the atmosphere here beats many Irish Pubs out there. It has the ideal vibe that most people think about when they picture an Irish Pub inside their head. They stay true to the Irish culture whether it's the music, the GAA, the decor, and especially the hospitality. Although we don't recommend grabbing a pint here when the sun goes down, we surely advise you to snag a Smithwick's and a fun conversation when the doors open. You'll have no problem making a few friends inside these doors if you decide to come back from time to time.
Thanks for the good time, Connolly's! Slainte.
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