Have you heard of Carrigan’s Pub? This gastropub is the newest addition to the Historic District’s growing number of nightlife spots. With a large patio and plans for a rooftop bar in the works, Carrigan’s is a great place to meet up with friends and grab a drink and a bite to eat.

My husband and I visited on a Friday night and arrived early, around 5:30pm. We had no problem snagging an outdoor table, but by 6:30 p.m. those were pretty much gone. Inside, however, there were still plenty open, offering lots of cozy seating areas and a huge L-shaped bar also with plenty of seats.

Anyone else remember bartender Eric Bennett of Bettola fame? Well, he is now using his mix master def jam-ness at Carrigan’s. I couldn’t decide what to order from the extensive specialty cocktail menu, so I gave it over to Eric, who whipped up a First Steps for me. This drink is made from Cocchi Americano Rosa (an Italian aperitif wine), Bonal Gentian-Quina (also an aperitif), lemon and blackberry. Well, the blackberry and lemon were the only things I recognized, but the drink was outstanding and Eric’s Tom Cruise-esque Top Gun/Cocktail-like moves were impressive, offering up an ice-induced tribal beat worthy of Simon Cowell’s consideration.

 

Being a public house, they also offer an extensive selection of gins, fortified wines and bitters so patrons can build their own martini. In addition to spirits, Carrigan’s also offers seasonal cocktails, craft beer and a limited menu of pub-inspired food.

 

 

 

Located in the century-old Blackwell Building at 2430 Morris Avenue, the renovation plans continue and there will soon be an addition of a roof top bar. The atmosphere is fun and festive and the prices are quite reasonable. With a well-lit parking lot across the street, plenty of indoor and outdoor seating, friendly staff and good food and drinks, Carrigan’s Public House should be at the top of your fall bucket list.