When McShane’s Bar and Grill opened its doors as an Irish pub in the earliest moment of spring 2005, one thing was clear: Its owners knew how to properly throw a St. Patrick’s Day celebration.
Now entering its sixth year as one of Eugene’s main Irish pubs, there are few better places in town to enjoy America’s biggest Irish holiday.
For those students sticking in Eugene for St. Patrick’s Day and looking to leave the small circle of campus nightlife, McShane’s is an enticing option.
Located southeast of campus off Highway 99 near Lane Community College, the three-story restaurant and bar offers St. Patrick’s Day-themed events from 11 a.m. until it closes at 2 a.m.
“It’s the biggest day of the year,” said Forrest McHarry, manager of McShane’s. “It’s about people getting together, putting on their green and celebrating all things Irish.”
Although six years may seem a small amount of time when compared to Irish pubs in bigger cities that boast signs that read ‘est. 1859′ or older, McShane’s has been able to accommodate Eugene’s holiday needs.
The 700 to 800 people expected inside the restaurant is a testament to McShane’s’ ability to please.
Aside from offering the entreatingly cliché alcohol options of Guinness, Irish Car Bombs, Baileys and Jameson whiskey, McShane’s tries to incorporate legitimate Irish St. Patrick’s Day traditions to create a genuine holiday-themed environment.
“We change everything up for St. Paddy’s Day,” McHarry said.
The restaurant varies its menu throughout the day to feature a seven-item selection of traditional Irish dishes. Garlic fries, corned beef and cabbage, roasted potatoes and fish and chips comprise most of the all-Irish menu.
“St. Paddy’s Day is really the only day where we do the nice plate of Irish food,” McHarry said.
The traditions don’t stop at just food.
During the day, traditional Irish music is played through the restaurant, while Irish limericks are passed around and read aloud.
As the day crowd transitions into a nighttime environment, McShane’s provides a more party-type atmosphere, including live music and an open dance floor.
This year’s entertainment features two local Eugene bands, including Medium Troy. The music typically starts between 9 and 10 p.m. and plays until close.
“During the day, people hang out and eat food, while during the night, it basically turns into an all-out party,” McHarry said.
When looking for authenticity, the bar’s all-day affair with Ireland is one of the best options in town.
Rather than staying around campus, it’s a good choice to venture out to Highway 99 and experience the bar’s take on what St. Patrick’s Day is all about.
“It’s a very diverse group,” McHarry said. “It is the public house type of scene, just people getting together and enjoying each other’s company.”
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