5120 Pleasant Avenue
Price of a Guinness: $6.00 | Overall Rating: 6.15
When you pull into the parking lot and look at McKinley's curb appeal you instantly think "maybe there's somewhere else that I could go instead". It's ugly on the outside and to be honest, the inside isn't much prettier. You're not going to find too many authentic tangibles in here regarding the Celtic culture, however, the wall decor, signage, and colors definitely make you feel like you're in an Irish Pub, nonetheless.
The regulars are what do the place justice. When you come at the right time then you'll certainly get hit with the Craic. The locals and bartenders are willing to buy you a round so long as you aren't an ass. Don't get the wrong idea; nobody is going to be buying you any shots by simply walking in and sitting on a barstool: you're going to have to fit in, of course!
The crowd here can be fantastic, but it can also be awful. It really does depend on what day and what time you arrive. On a good day, you'll run into Blue Collar chatty Cathies. On a bad day, you'll run into creepy lower-class guys who find it fun to be obnoxiously loud and annoying. Thursday afternoons are decent as they offer free darts (plastic) every Thursday. The dart throwers here are rather good and they have a few jokes up their sleeves. Gamedays are typically a packed house and you'll most likely be standing like a sardine if you show up right at kickoff.
There's a jukebox for the foot tappers and the music in general seems to be pretty awesome. The barstools here are very comfortable and the overall vibe is nice and dark. There's keno for the dreamers and a tiny toiletry for those who need to plop a few potatoes. The toiletries are surprisingly pleasant. Typically, bathrooms at places like these require a Tetanus Shot upon exiting, but you should be alright here at McKinley's.
The drinks here get the job done after a long day's grind. The Guinness unfortunately comes in a 16oz glass but it's not a wallet buster. The brew selection consists of inexpensive light beers, and the whiskey selection could use some help. Bombs are popular here among the locals and all in all everyone seems to know a thing or two about either the Reds or the Bengals (or both). The last time I was here I enjoyed a lovely conversation with a newly engaged couple who were devout Cincinnati Reds fans. After a couple of Guinness and a quick comradery shot, we became the best of friends that anyone could ever have for an hour.
Don't cancel your day plans to get here, however, if you're either going to or coming from Jungle Jim's then you should certainly swing by for a few quick pints. You'll encounter a good deal of Craic if you're lucky, but don't bet your bottom dollar on it.
Thanks, McKinley's! See you next time. Slainte.
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