Irish Pub Melds New And Familiar

By Alissa Wolf, FOR THE INQUIRER
Posted: July 11, 1992

The Irish Pub, an Atlantic City landmark for 20 years, is more than just a bar.

With its warm wood-and-brass decor, collection of antique memorabilia, selection of reasonably priced imported beers, hearty food, friendly service and overall good vibes, it's the next best thing to winging your way to the Emerald Isle. And it's more than deserving of its reputation as a beloved Shore institution.

For years, the Pub avoided change, seemingly remaining frozen in time and space.

But things are different now, with the recent addition of its spiffy outdoor terrace, located behind the main bar, on New York Avenue - it's been dubbed the Downtown Bistro at the Irish Pub.

So what's the big deal? Plenty of Shore bars and restaurants have outdoor stuff in the summer.

First of all, owners Catherine and Richard Burke, who built the terrace on the former site of a ramshackle abandoned garage, spared no detail in transforming the spot into one of the most aesthetically pleasing around.

Enclosed by a lacy wrought iron fence, the terrace is adorned with potted flowers, two charming wooden gazebos, cafe tables with salmon marble tops, slate floor and other outdoorsy accouterments.

"In nice weather, people love to sit outside," says Catherine Burke, who likes to mingle with customers.

More important, Burke hopes the terrace signals a renaissance for New York Avenue, which used to contain many quaint shops, restaurants, and nightclubs.

"Richard and I love this area," says Burke. "We foresee a lot of positive changes in the future."

IF YOU GO

* The Irish Pub is located at St. James Place and the Boardwalk in Atlantic City. It is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The terrace is open 11:30 a.m. to 1 a.m. daily. Phone: 609-344-9063.

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