When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Irish Eyes
Why Irish Eyes is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Irish Eyes Pub in Lewes, Delaware, is a vibrant and welcoming establishment that serves as an excellent place for friends to meet up and enjoy a memorable dining experience. Celebrating over 30 years of operation, Irish Eyes is renowned for its fresh local seafood, including oysters sourced both locally and from afar, Maryland crab meat, and live lobsters displayed in tanks greeting guests upon arrival. The menu not only highlights classic seafood dishes but also offers authentic Irish fare and vegetarian options, catering to diverse tastes and preferences. The atmosphere combines traditional Irish charm with a lively and friendly environment, making it suitable for casual get-togethers or special occasions. One of the pub's standout features is its spacious second-floor waterfront banquet facility, known as the "Lewes Room," which can seat over 150 guests. This venue is ideal for hosting events such as holiday parties, weddings, and other celebrations, supported by attentive banquet coordination and culinary services that ensure a personalized and seamless experience. Irish Eyes is more than just a pub; it is a community hub that embodies warmth, quality food, and great company, making it a great place to connect with friends and create lasting memories.
Here's what people think of Irish Eyes
As of recent, Irish Eyes holds a 4.3-star rating based on 161 reviews.
User reviews for Irish Eyes Pub generally reflect a positive overall experience, as indicated by its solid 4.3-star rating from approximately 161 reviewers. Many patrons praise the establishment for its fresh and delicious seafood, particularly applauding the quality of oysters, crab meat, and the welcoming presentation of live lobsters. The ambiance receives favorable remarks for being cozy and authentically Irish, contributing to a friendly and enjoyable environment for social gatherings. The banquet facility also garners positive feedback for its spaciousness and suitability for large celebrations, with guests appreciating the attentive service from the staff and efficient event coordination. On the positive side, reviewers frequently highlight the excellent food quality, generous portion sizes, and the accommodating nature of the staff as major strengths. Customers enjoy the diversity of the menu, which successfully blends seafood staples with Irish classics and vegetarian options, allowing groups with varied tastes to find satisfying choices. However, some negative comments focus on typical concerns such as occasional wait times during peak hours and variability in service speed. A few patrons mention that the pricing may be on the higher side compared to other local options, and some note that the decor could benefit from updates to enhance ambiance further. Despite these occasional critiques, the overall sentiment remains strongly positive, with many guests recommending Irish Eyes as a reliable and enjoyable destination for both casual dining and special events. In conclusion, the review landscape suggests that Irish Eyes Pub maintains a reputable standard for food quality, atmosphere, and customer service, solidifying its position as a favored meet-up spot in Lewes, Delaware.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Amber Fitzgerald
Irish Eyes has a carpet so sticky it deserves its own warning sign. The moment you step inside, your shoes form an emotional bond with the floor. It’s like walking on a mix of Velcro and mystery syrup, holding you in place just long enough to question every life choice that led you here. You don’t leave Irish Eyes, the carpet releases you when it’s good and ready.
KC C.
Dirty, musty dive bar...if u like that sort of place...no food, nasty restrooms...not much else
Tony B
Typical college neighborhood dive bar. Prices might be a little above average. Surprised to learn there's no kitchen, and thus no food.
Darren B.
Great service and beer selection. Solid prices. Cool dive bar. But ..... Carpet. It's like walking on a dirty sponge. I dig some people like that, me not so much.
Tony Buck
Interesting bar, decent size, with some bar games, and very old school. The bartender was very nice, and though we didn't fit in with the people who were patronizing the bar that night, we never felt unwelcome, or let's get out of here, or anything like that. With being old school, the prices were old school too, which was very good. My only real issue with the place was, you can only have basic cocktails, and the rest rooms could use some updating.
How to reach Irish Eyes
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Website: None
Why Irish Eyes may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Irish Eyes with your friends? Because this pub and restaurant offers a genuine, welcoming atmosphere where camaraderie thrives naturally. Whether you crave hearty food, authentic drinks, or simply a lively spot to gather, Irish Eyes caters to all your group needs with warmth and authenticity. The ambiance is famously cozy and unpretentious, rooted in genuine Irish hospitality, with staff that often bring real Irish charm to the experience. The venue balances a rustic pub feel with spacious dining areas, making it perfect for groups ranging from casual catch-ups to celebrations. Plus, the lively crowd and the consistent presence of hearty meals and well-poured pints create an energetic vibe that encourages relaxation and fun. This is not just another chain restaurant with a themed name; Irish Eyes carries the essence of a traditional Irish pub—complete with familiar pints of Guinness and dishes that satisfy diverse palates. Gathering your friends here means sharing a memorable experience in a place that feels like a second home, where each visit is accompanied by good food, good drinks, and great company.
What activities make Irish Eyes a perfect place to meet up with friends? First and foremost, dining together is a central activity, with an extensive menu that covers delicious pub fare and comfort food that appeals to a broad audience. From savory appetizers like fried pickles and buffalo wings to satisfying entrees that often include Irish specialties, the food supports sharing and conversation. The pub also boasts a solid selection of beers on tap—especially Irish staples like Guinness and Smithwicks—making it ideal for those who appreciate a well-crafted pint. Beyond the dining, Irish Eyes is known for hosting live entertainment, which injects energy and excitement into the atmosphere, perfect for groups that enjoy music and socializing. The spacious layout includes both a long wooden bar and multiple high tables, plus a more relaxed sit-down dining area in the rear, providing versatile spaces depending on your group’s mood. Whether you're in the mood to chat over drinks, feast on hearty food, or enjoy live music, Irish Eyes accommodates all by blending casual comfort with lively ambiance.
Why is Irish Eyes particularly suited for group meetups or special occasions? One of its standout features is the spaciousness coupled with cozy corners, allowing groups to feel both connected and comfortable. Unlike cramped venues, Irish Eyes provides enough room for larger parties to settle without feeling rushed or crowded. This makes it an excellent backdrop not only for casual friend gatherings but also for family celebrations or even small corporate meetups. The staff's reputation for friendliness and accommodating service contributes to the ease of organizing group events. Additionally, Irish Eyes has experience hosting private events like wedding receptions, demonstrating its capability to handle more formal, planned gatherings with grace. The venue’s layout supports both lively bar seating and relaxed dining settings, so guests can move around and mingle naturally, enhancing the social experience. The combination of authentic food, drink variety, and inviting space means everyone in your group can find their niche, whether they’re food lovers, beer enthusiasts, or music fans.
What kind of food and drink can groups expect at Irish Eyes? The menu is broad and approachable, featuring classic pub grub with a solid emphasis on quality and taste. Popular appetizers like fried pickles, coated evenly and served with a spicy garlic mayonnaise, appeal especially to groups seeking sharable starters. The buffalo wings come in various flavor coatings, accommodating different heat tolerance levels, which is essential for a diverse group. While the food is generally described as straightforward and satisfying, many find the variety refreshing with items ranging from traditional Irish dishes to American pub favorites. On the drinks side, Irish Eyes offers a modest but reliable tap selection that reliably includes Irish favorites such as Guinness and Smithwicks, essential for an authentic Irish pub experience. There’s also a thoughtful cocktail menu including crowd-pleasers like Bloody Marys, though some reviews mention mixed experiences with certain drink offerings. Overall, the menu balances to satisfy both casual diners and those looking for a comforting taste of Ireland.
How does the atmosphere and crowd at Irish Eyes enhance group meetups? The crowd tends to be loyal, diverse, and lively, drawn by the authentic vibe and quality offerings. Regulars appreciate the genuine Irish hospitality, and newcomers quickly notice the friendly, unpretentious environment. The pub’s décor is warm and inviting, dominated by classic wooden accents and a long bar that naturally draws groups together. This setting encourages conversation, laughter, and connection, essential ingredients for memorable gatherings. Live entertainment further enlivens the space, creating a backdrop of music and energy that groups can enjoy without overwhelming casual conversations. The balance between a cozy pub feel and vibrant social scene ensures that whether your group prefers quiet chats or boisterous fun, Irish Eyes can cater to your mood. This atmosphere makes it a destination for those who seek to rally with friends in a place that feels both special and familiar.
What should groups know about service and overall experience at Irish Eyes? Feedback indicates that while the food and atmosphere receive high praise, service can vary, with some reports of slow or uneven service at times. This inconsistency appears to be an area where the management is aware of potential improvements. Nonetheless, many visitors highlight friendly bartenders and accommodating staff who enhance the overall experience. For group meetups, this means planning with a bit of patience but expecting a welcoming reception and willingness from staff to help with special orders or event needs. The management’s experience with private events, like weddings, underscores a commitment to guest satisfaction, with many testimonials praising the staff’s helpfulness and flexibility. This reputation for event hosting further builds confidence for groups considering Irish Eyes for celebrations or special occasions.
In summary, Irish Eyes is an excellent choice for those wanting to host a meetup with friends or family because it combines authentic Irish hospitality, a welcoming and lively atmosphere, quality pub food and drinks, and versatile spaces suitable for groups large and small. Whether you are planning a casual hangout, a festive party, or a private celebration, Irish Eyes offers the right mix of comfort, authenticity, and fun, making it a memorable place to rally your favorite people.