Irish Pubs in Grand Rapids

In Ireland, pubs are known for their casual and friendly atmosphere, free-flowing conversation, hearty food and drink, and often some Irish sports on the telly or a wee bit of traditional Irish music.

Irish pubs in Grand Rapids pretty much follow the same template, right on down to the Irish beers and whiskeys on the menu. These pubs pack ‘em in on St. Patrick’s Day, of course, but they also go out of their way to make patrons feel welcome any time of the year.

Quinn and Tuite’s Irish Pub

The phrase “Céad Míle Fáilte!” – which means “A Hundred Thousand Welcomes!” ­– is emblazoned over the entrance to this northeast side pub, and it’s indicative of the warm hospitality visitors enjoy at Quinn and Tuite’s. Owners Bill Quinn and Rick Schall bought the former “Pete Brown’s Office” bar in the mid ’80s and eventually turned it into a popular Irish pub. (Tuite is Schall’s mother’s Irish family name.)

Since then, Wednesday night Irish sing-alongs, pool and cornhole, more than 90 different Irish whiskeys and award-winning pours of Guinness have become pub staples. “We were given the distinction of the best pint poured in Michigan by Guinness,” says owner Bill Quinn. “We have the perfect mix of nitrogen and CO2, we use the proper gas, our lines are constantly cleaned, and our help is educated on how to pour a proper pint.” In addition to Guinness, you’ll find Irish mainstays like Harp Lager, Smithwick's Irish Ale and Magner’s Irish Cider.

Quinn and Tuite’s has been recognized for more than its Guinness pour. It was once named the best neighborhood bar in Grand Rapids and also one of the state’s best neighborhood bars. Adorned with posters, mirrors and paintings full of the love of Ireland, it envelops you in the friendly, easy-going culture of the Emerald Isle.

“You’re a regular the first time you’re in here. You’re never a stranger,” says Quinn. “It’s like being in Ireland.”

Flanagan’s Irish Pub

I love strolling around downtown Grand Rapids in every season. Whether it’s a snowy winter day or a brilliant summer evening, when I’m ready for a break, it’s easy to pop into . In the heart of downtown, across from and the historic McKay Tower, the welcoming Irish pub has been a part of the Grand Rapids community for four decades. It was completely remodeled by new owners (of Irish descent) in 2016, making it even more authentic and comfortable.

Located across from Rosa Parks Circle in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids, Flanagan’s is an easy stop before or after a show at Van Andel Arena or DeVos Performance Hall, or anytime you’re visiting downtown shops, museums and festivals.

This welcoming Irish pub has been a part of the Grand Rapids community for four decades. It was completely remodeled by new owners (of Irish descent) in 2016, making it even more authentic and comfortable.

You’ll find a wide selection of Irish beers and whiskeys here – including Guinness on tap – plus creative cocktails and specialty shots. Flanagan’s also serves food, a mix of traditional Irish dishes and American favorites.

O’Toole’s Public House

Twin brothers Dave and Paul Reinert used to love visiting Boston’s ubiquitous Irish public houses when they were younger. It later struck them that Grand Rapids might embrace an Irish bar that was warm, welcoming and lots of fun. “That’s where the whole concept of O’Toole’s came from,” says Dave Reinert.

They opened O’Toole’s on Bridge Street in May of 2003, before that downtown-adjacent corridor saw an upsurge of revitalization and welcomed more bars and restaurants to the area. “When we opened we were one of the only places on the road,” says Reinert. “It’s been cool to see everything evolve.” (They’ve been part of the evolution – the brothers also own Butcher’s Union, located on the same block.)

The vibe they’ve created is friendly and upbeat. “We have a really relaxed, come-as-you-are type of atmosphere,” says Reinert. “O’Toole’s is a great place to come with your friends and let your hair down a little bit.” 

When you visit, you’ll find Guinness and Harp on tap and plenty of Irish whiskeys. But O’Toole’s also has a nice selection of wines, seltzers and cocktails, plenty of Michigan craft beer, and lots of burgers, sandwiches, salads and starters.

A little farther out...

Grattan Irish Pub (Belding, MI)

A little over 10 miles southeast of Rockford, off of Belding Road, you’ll find Grattan Irish Pub. Built by Irish farmer immigrants, and established in 1937, Grattan Pub is family owned and operated.

Beer and cocktails rule the day here. The expansive food menu offers some Irish dishes, like the corned beef Rueben sandwich with homemade sauerkraut (that they brine themselves), but there’s also a selection of traditional American bar food.

Sometimes Grattan Irish Pub has live music on the weekends. Check the pub’s Facebook page for more information.

The Curragh Traditional Irish Pub (Holland, MI)

The Curragh offers plenty of authentic Irish food and drink, from imported beers and whiskeys to Bangers & Mash, Shepherd’s Pie and Irish Stew. It’s located in downtown Holland, about 30 minutes from downtown Grand Rapids.