Arts & Entertainment
 

Diverse clientele livens up O'Neill's

Free karaoke, $1 weekend cover bring in urban professionals, 
frugal UH students

Liquid Diet

Mario Gudmundsson

Even late on a weekday evening, one quiet drink at Brian O'Neill's turns into an entire evening of pitchers. This could easily be the case several times a week, given the drink specials and friendly service that keep a diverse crowd coming back for more.

The brick-paved patio in front, crowded with a cross-section of inner-Loopers on any clear night, offers a glimpse into the kind of evening the patrons are having -- which is usually a boozy one. A distinctive wall of dark red paneling faces the street, with customers spilling out from French doors and bellying up to the window bay where bartenders can serve the patio.

Several rooms cater to patrons who choose to stay inside with atmospheres to fit any mood, from roomy areas near the bar to more intimate spots close to fireplaces. The entire place is decorated like a traditional Irish pub, with heavy wood trim and leather couches abounding. Any spot in the pub is ideal, though, for hoisting a brew.

"We have an impressive beer assortment, with 18 beers on tap and 51 bottled beers," bartender Pamela Carlstom said, pouring draft after draft from the iced over taps that ensure a frosty drink every time. According to the stunning blonde Carlstom, the most popular drink is probably the Bull Blaster -- Jagermeister and Red Bull over ice.

"We have live entertainment Wednesdays through Saturdays, but it's always a laid-back place to socialize and hang out," Carlstom said. "We get all of the college games here, too."

There's free karaoke every other Wednesday night, and musicians like Luther & the Healers, Ezra Charles and the Mighty Orq play at Brian O'Neill's on weekends for a $1 cover charge, bringing in big crowds of college students and professionals.

"The most interesting collection of people you'll come across in Houston," is how manager Jennifer Finlay said she sees it.

"We see all ages and all types of people," Finlay said. "All blends are possible here, because there are no barriers. I've worked in a lot of bars, and this is by far my favorite."

Prompt and friendly service helps keep this bar a local favorite. The bartenders and wait staff are friendly and patient, and though they don't intrude on conversations, they do bring your drinks promptly and continually suggest menus or assistance.

Brian O'Neill's offers a full menu of pub-grub appetizers, like buffalo wings and egg rolls, along with salads and hearty entrees. Oversized burgers and steaks are recommended, but one of the best bargains is the Monday night special: a pizza and a pitcher of beer for $12.

Weekday happy hours and daily specials on drinks and food make any night a good option for cash-strapped Cougars to check the place out.

"Nothing in Houston compares to this place," Finlay said. "This is the place to be if you're looking for a full-on party this weekend."

Brian O'Neill's Restaurant and Irish Pub

5555 Morningside Drive

The verdict: A great place for cheap beer and good food.

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