If you are looking for a spot to grab a pint or classic pub fare this St. Patrick’s Day, Fionn MacCool’s at 1601 Main Street is a reliable fixture in the Mount Pleasant and Olympic Village area. It is a casual Irish pub that balances traditional comfort food with a few modern additions.
St. Patrick’s Day Features
First up is the Spice Bag, a popular Dublin takeaway staple that has made its way to Vancouver. The dish features buttermilk chicken tenders, French fries, roasted peppers, and onions tossed in a savory seasoning and served with a side of chip shop curry gravy. It offers a satisfying mix of textures and that familiar pub-style comfort.
Another seasonal option are the Irish Croquettes. These are made with breaded and fried corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and mustard, served over a mix of mozzarella and mashed potatoes. The addition of curry ketchup adds a tangy element that helps cut through the richness of the croquettes.
The Guinness Jalapeno Cheddar Bread arrives warm from the oven with a garlic parmesan dip. The bread has a savoury character from the Guinness and cheddar, while the jalapeno brings a mild heat that develops slowly. It is an easy dish to share at the table.
For a festive drink, the Jameson Green Tea Shot is recommended, made with Jameson Irish Whiskey, peach schnapps, and sweet and sour mix.
Regular Menu Staples
If you are looking for their standard pub fare, there are several hearty options to consider:
The Grilled Sirloin features a top sirloin that has been aged for more than a month. It is served with mashed potatoes, seasonal vegetables, and a side of chimichurri. The herb sauce adds a nice freshness to the plate.
The Lemon Dill Salmon is a lighter alternative, featuring oven-roasted salmon served with jasmine rice, onions, and vegetables. The lemon dill sauce provides a bright citrus note that works well with the fish.
The Guinness Steak and Mushroom Pie is a classic Irish pub dish. It has a buttery crust filled with a steak and mushroom stew made with Guinness, served alongside mashed potatoes, vegetables, and gravy.
To finish the meal, the Apple Pie is good choice and is served warm with French vanilla ice cream, a caramel drizzle, and cinnamon sugar. The contrast between the warm pie and cold ice cream makes for a very familiar, classic finish.
Quick Facts: Fionn MacCool’s Vancouver
- Address: 1601 Main St, Vancouver, BC
- Neighborhood: Mount Pleasant / Olympic Village
- Best For: St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, Irish comfort food, and casual pints
- Hours: Open daily from 12 AM (Sunday – Thursday) and 1 AM (Friday & Saturday)
- Parking: Street parking is available on Main St and nearby side streets
