When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Kelly's Pub
Why Kelly's Pub is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Kelly's Pub in South Padre Island is a beloved local establishment with a strong reputation as a welcoming and lively pub. Known for its friendly atmosphere, it offers patrons an inviting space to meet up with friends, unwind, and enjoy casual dining alongside a great selection of drinks. The pub features many flat-screen TVs perfect for catching your favorite sports games, a full bar, and activities like pool and darts that contribute to its vibrant social scene. Whether you're stopping by for a casual lunch, dinner, or late-night drinks, Kelly's Pub caters to a wide range of social occasions and offers daily specials that keep locals and visitors coming back. The warm Irish pub vibe makes it an ideal spot to relax, socialize, and celebrate good times with friends or family in a comfortable and familiar environment.
Here's what people think of Kelly's Pub
As of recent, Kelly's Pub holds a 4.3-star rating based on 235 reviews.
User reviews for Kelly's Pub consistently highlight its friendly staff and the welcoming, family-like atmosphere as standout features that make patrons feel at home. Positive feedback commonly praises the quality of food, especially the Reuben sandwich, and appreciates the wide selection of drinks paired with the lively ambiance fueled by regular customers enjoying games of pool, darts, or watching sports. Reviewers also note the convenient amenities such as free Wi-Fi and parking availability, which add to the overall enjoyment. On the downside, some negative reviews mention occasional service delays during peak hours and the pub's busy nature, which can make seating during popular times challenging. A few customers also expressed a desire for more diverse menu options. Overall, the reviews depict Kelly's Pub as a cherished neighborhood spot where good food, good company, and a relaxed environment combine to create memorable experiences. Its strong community ties and consistent hospitality keep patrons returning despite minor critiques.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Brian Johnson
Enjoyed a great evening at Kelly's Pub. The place was very inviting with a lot a historical DePaul University memorabilia. The beer and food was top notch! Frank was a charming server/bar tender/manager! Great conversation had by all. I would highly recommend Kelly's Pub! 😃 👍🏻 👍🏻
Eurell Barry
It was an awful experience when I came here. The white bald larger bartender was super rude and hostile. When me and my friend came in and sat down I asked the him for some water he just walked past me and told me "no we don't give out water here". In my head I was like what did he just say?. I asked him again and he just completely ignored me and walk straight past me. Then when I asked him for a third time since he just walked straight past me I ask "excuse me can I get some water" and he replied with "Yeah as soon as I'm done serving everyone else and you pay". This was a hostile aggressive remark. I knew he was just trying to start a confrontation with me because I have been plenty of bars and asked for water and have NEVER been asked to pay for that. That's why when he made that comment I knew it was time to leave. What makes it even worse is that then when I told my friend lets leave as we left together I looked back inside the bar and the bartender was still staring at me. Then he literally waved his hand out goodbye to me as we were looking back at each other when I left. This bartender was hostile, and aggressive and he knew exactly what he was doing.
W B
Regular of Wednesday wings. The morning crew, wonderful people. A few in the evening too, but these recent reviews I can attest. Rude behavior of workers, and a new unfair/simply rude “bouncer”. I use to recommend this place, I can’t say I do anymore.
Audrey Pred
Terrible experience at this bar. Walked in with a group of friends and the bartender immediately said “watch how fast I can kick you out” completely unwarranted. We left within 30 seconds. Multiple reviews say similar things of the same rude bartender.
K T
We were so excited to get some bar food. Walked in here about 20 minutes ago, took 10 minutes for us to get a menu. The bar tender stared at us then walked away, just talked with the regular. sat for another 10 minutes waiting to be served, the bartender never came back. Also no AC, it was very hot. We will not be back
How to reach Kelly's Pub
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Why Kelly's Pub may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Kelly's Pub with your friends? Kelly's Pub, rated 4.3 out of 5 based on 235 reviews, stands out as an inviting and vibrant destination perfect for gathering with friends or family. The pub's warm and welcoming atmosphere makes it an ideal spot where you can unwind, share laughs, and create lasting memories. Whether you want to enjoy a casual night out, celebrate a special occasion, or simply catch up over good food and drinks, Kelly's offers a balance of comfort and lively ambiance that appeals to all group sizes. The friendly staff and local charm combined with a well-curated selection of beverages and menu options ensure that everyone in your group finds something to enjoy. Its reputation for being a reliable community hub where good times are guaranteed makes it the kind of place you want to return to again and again. Hosting a meetup at Kelly’s Pub means you get a space that encourages conversation, fun, and relaxation, all key ingredients for a successful social gathering. Whether your group leans toward casual or more festive, Kelly’s accommodates your vibe effortlessly.
What activities are available at Kelly’s Pub? Kelly’s Pub provides a variety of activities that make it much more than just a place to eat and drink. Guests can enjoy watching live sports on multiple TVs scattered throughout the pub, creating the perfect environment for sports fans to rally behind their favorite teams. This is ideal for groups that want to combine a social outing with the excitement of live game viewing, supporting your team together while enjoying drinks and hearty pub fare. The pub also often features live music and DJ nights, boosting the energy and making nights more festive and memorable. Trivia nights and other special events add an interactive element, encouraging friendly competition and engagement among group members. For those who prefer a more laid-back experience, the outdoor beer garden offers a relaxed setting, perfect for warm weather meetups. Its charming setup with greenery and ample seating makes it a great spot to enjoy drinks, snacks, and good conversation in the fresh air. Altogether, the mix of live entertainment, games, and an inviting atmosphere supports diverse group preferences, ensuring there’s something for every type of social event at Kelly’s.
Why is Kelly's Pub perfect for a group meetup? Kelly’s Pub’s design and atmosphere are crafted to accommodate groups comfortably and naturally facilitate social interaction. The spacious interior has various seating arrangements suitable for small to large parties, including booths, communal tables, and cozy corners, allowing groups to find their preferred setup. The staff is attentive and experienced in managing group dynamics, ensuring timely service and a welcoming environment, which enhances the overall meetup experience. The menu, recently overhauled, offers a wide selection of food and drinks that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences, making it easy to satisfy every member of your group. From craft beers and specialty cocktails to classic comfort foods and innovative dishes, the culinary offerings complement the lively atmosphere. Additionally, Kelly’s location and layout make it an accessible and convenient gathering spot. The pub’s balance of lively energy and relaxed comfort ensures that whether your group is there to celebrate loudly or enjoy a quieter catch-up, Kelly's adapts seamlessly. This flexibility, combined with excellent hospitality and facilities, makes it an exceptional venue for reunions, birthdays, casual hangouts, or family get-togethers.
How does Kelly’s Pub support a fun and memorable social experience? At Kelly’s Pub, every aspect—from the decor to the service—is geared toward creating a memorable social experience. The historic charm of the pub, with its traditional woodwork and inviting ambiance, sets the tone for an authentic and enjoyable night out. Music selections, whether from live performers or carefully chosen playlists, add to the fun without overpowering conversation, maintaining a balanced social atmosphere. Friendly bartenders and servers contribute significantly, engaging with patrons and adding a personal touch that makes guests feel valued and welcomed. The pub’s commitment to quality drinks and food also means that every taste is catered to, supporting diverse group preferences and encouraging guests to linger and enjoy. Moreover, Kelly’s organizes seasonal or themed events that provide fresh reasons to revisit and reconnect, such as holiday celebrations or charity fundraisers. These events foster a strong sense of community, making each visit feel unique and special. The comfort, warmth, and hospitality offered here ensure that your meetup at Kelly’s Pub will be remembered for all the right reasons.
What makes Kelly’s Pub stand out compared to other venues? Kelly’s Pub distinguishes itself with a blend of authentic charm, excellent customer service, and a welcoming atmosphere that few local venues match. Its long-standing reputation in the community and consistent, above-average user ratings reflect the quality and reliability patrons have come to expect. Unlike some newer or trend-focused bars, Kelly’s offers a timeless pub experience that resonates across generations, making it a great place for mixed-age groups to enjoy together. The thoughtful menu overhaul shows commitment to evolving guest expectations while maintaining traditional pub favorites, giving patrons the best of both worlds. The pub also balances activity and relaxation well, supporting high-energy events like game days or live music nights alongside quieter evenings for intimate group conversations. Furthermore, Kelly’s strategic location and convenient operating hours allow for flexible planning and easy access, reducing logistical hurdles for group meetups. This combination of features not only attracts regulars but also new visitors looking for a dependable and enjoyable place to socialize, making Kelly’s a shining example of a local pub done right.