Kenny's Bar

Just what County Clare needs - another pub claiming to be the heart and soul of Ennistimon. Kenny's Bar in Ennistimon had me rolling my eyes before I even crossed the threshold. The exterior's got that calculated "authentic Irish pub" look that usually makes me want to run screaming in the opposite direction. But here's the thing - and it absolutely pains me to admit this - I might have judged this book by its perfectly weathered cover a bit too hastily.

Let's talk about what you're walking into, because Kenny's Bar Ennistimon isn't your typical tourist trap masquerading as a local haunt. The first thing that caught me off guard was the surprising lack of leprechaun imagery and "Kiss Me I'm Irish" tat. Instead, there's this genuinely intriguing mashup of surfing memorabilia and American road trip nostalgia that somehow... works? I know, I'm as shocked as you are.

The bread - oh, for heaven's sake - the bread. Usually when someone tells me "the owner bakes it fresh daily," I brace myself for mediocre sourdough with delusions of grandeur. But this stuff? It's the kind of bread that makes you question every other slice you've ever eaten. It arrives warm, with a crust that crackles just so, and an interior that's practically begging for a swipe through their seafood chowder.

Speaking of which, let's discuss this chowder situation. I've had more seafood chowders in Ireland than I care to count, most of them bland affairs that seem to have been made by someone who once heard about seafood in a dream. But Kenny's version is something else entirely. Rich without being heavy, loaded with fresh seafood (actual seafood, mind you, not just the suggestion of it), and seasoned by someone who clearly understands that salt and pepper aren't the only spices in existence.

The catch of the day deserves its own paragraph, if only because it's managed to accomplish something I thought impossible - fish and chips that don't make me wish I'd ordered something else. The batter is light enough to make you forget you're eating fried food, and the fish inside is invariably fresh enough to make you wonder if they've got a secret tunnel to the ocean.

Now, about the prices - they're firmly in the middle range, which initially had me skeptical. In my experience, mid-range pricing usually means mid-range everything else. But here's where Kenny's pulls off another miracle: the portion sizes are actually reasonable, the quality is consistently high, and you don't leave feeling like you've been robbed blind or served pub grub masquerading as fine dining.

The staff, much to my chagrin, are genuinely friendly. Not that manufactured, "I'm being nice because it's my job" friendly, but the kind of warmth that makes you feel like you've been coming here for years, even if it's your first visit. They're efficient too, which shouldn't be noteworthy but sadly is in this day and age.

The atmosphere hits that sweet spot between lively and overwhelming. Yes, it gets packed - especially after 9 PM - but somehow maintains its charm. The live music (when they have it) doesn't make you want to stick forks in your ears, and the mix of locals and tourists creates a buzz that feels authentic rather than forced.

For those keeping score at home, they've got all the modern conveniences - they take cards (hallelujah), there's parking nearby (both paid and free street parking if you're willing to walk a bit), and yes, you can even bring your dog. They do take reservations, which I'd strongly suggest using, unless you enjoy standing around hoping for a miracle during peak hours.

Look, I didn't want to like Kenny's Bar in Ennistimon. I really didn't. But sometimes you have to admit defeat and acknowledge when something is simply done right. Whether you're a local looking for your new regular spot or a visitor wanting to experience a proper Irish pub that hasn't sold its soul to tourism, Kenny's deserves your attention. Just... don't tell them I sent you. I have a reputation to maintain.