Tom Bergins

On St. Patrick's Day, Irish pubs simply cannot be avoided. But why go to just one? For those Angelinos who want to embark on a pub-crawl like none other, here are four spots you won't want to pass up. Green beer anyone?

 

 

Tom Bergin's Tavern: It's the oldest Irish pub in L.A. and a definite first stop on your St. Patty's Day pub-crawl. Everything about Tom Bergin's Tavern says Irish pub, from the oak wood interior to their famous "Horse Shoe Bar," which according to lore, was the inspiration for the bar used on Cheers. But it's best to down a few pints of Guinness and maybe a shot of their world famous Irish coffee and be on your way. It tends to get really crowded on St. Patrick's Day.

840 S. Fairfax Ave., 90036; 323-936-7151

 

Molly Malone's: Once you've left Tom Bergin's, head across the street to Molly Malone's for some traditional Irish music. St. Patty's Day is always a wild ride at this Irish pub/music venue hybrid – and this year plans to be no different. Some of the acts scheduled to perform include Baker's Cream Experience, the Black Shamrocks, and RapScallions. Beer will be flowing, of course, but don't expect any of it to be green. The folks over at Molly Malone's aren't keen on St. Patty's Day gimmicks.

575 S. Fairfax Ave., 90036; 323-935-1577

 

St. Nick's Pub: Now that you've satisfied the urge to hear real Irish music, head down Third Street to St. Nick's for a cheap beer and a traditional pub setting. Although it's located in West Hollywood, St. Nick's somehow avoids the scenester types and manages to maintain a neighborhood-y type atmosphere. The bartenders have a no-nonsense demeanor, the jukebox spins mostly grunge-era rock, and the clientele consists of people just looking for a cold beer and some decent conversation. How can you ask for anything more on St. Patty's Day?

8450 W. 3rd St., 90048; 323-655-6917

 

O'Brien's Pub: You've already made your way west, so why not finish the night off at one of the best known pubs in Santa Monica? Along with its rustic pub setting, O'Brien's has one of the finest Irish menus in Los Angeles, with traditional favorites like bangers and mash, shepherd's pie, and corned beef and cabbage. You can eat, drink and even sing old Irish fight songs, which is not that uncommon for the regulars. How better to end your St. Patrick's Day pub-crawl than with a little piece of Ireland right here in Los Angeles?

2226 Wilshire Blvd., 90403; 310-829-5303