What better place to celebrate any event than an Irish pub?
Kelsey’s Restaurant in Ellicott City is often so packed with revelers on holidays that they have to turn some folks away.
But even if it’s not a holiday, Kelsey’s is still a local haunt that you’ll want to visit.
Family-owned and -operated since 1994, Kelsey’s is a favorite withlocals, but is warm and welcoming to just about everybody.
And though Kelsey’s serves food, most people go to enjoy the friendly bartenders, beer specials and big-screen TVs.
The scene: Bright Irish flags line the top of the bar, which is made of dark cherrywood. There is ample seating in the pub, including barstools, bar tables and regular dining tables. Kelsey’s has several TVs, including a 62- inch, high-definition big screen. The dining room is separated by glass doors so that the noise from the pub crawlers don’t bother the diners. Quiet and cool, the restaurant area is filled with more cherrywood booths and tables. Tiny glass lamps perch on each table, along with a vase of fresh carnations.
The pour: Kelsey’s pub area is always more crowded than its dining room, perhaps owing to Kelsey’s wide variety of beers on tap. The Irish car bombs are not to be messed with, and the bartenders will often join in a drink with customers.
The taste: While Kelsey’s offers traditional Irish dishes such as Irish stew, shepherd’s pie, Killarney shrimp and chicken Ireland, they also have American fare including burgers, pasta and meatloaf. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the tortellini New Orleans or the Rachel (the Reuben’s sister.)
Why you will go: If the helpful staff, cold beers and fun atmosphere don’t get you, the happy hour will. Kelsey’s boasts the best happy hour in Ellicott City, with specials from 3 to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. All rail drinks, all 16-oz. drafts, glasses of house wine, wings and fries, and chicken and fries are all just $3 each.
Why you won’t: The only reason you won’t go is if you can’t get in because of the crowd!
8480 Baltimore National Pike, Ellicott City
410-418-9076
Entree prices: $25 to $40
