An Irish Pub Experience

WHEN one speaks of Ireland, the images that normally come to mind are shamrocks, leprechauns, beers and of course, the iconic Irish pubs. The latter, which is short for “public house,” is an age-old figure that is present in every Irish community, and is where the locals gather to relax and unwind while having a mug or two of the likewise famous Irish beer.

TODAY, one can find Irish pubs in almost all major cities around the world. A pub’s wide array of beverages paired with its low-key and homey ambience, has made it a popular hangout for many people regardless of ethnicity.

In Cebu, for example, there is a new spot where one can experience how it would be like to drink and dine like the Irish—it is called Marshall’s Irish Pub Bar & Restaurant.

Although pubs are generally known to be drinking establishments, some such as Marshall’s also serve food.

Owner and executive chef Larry Marshall said: “At home, I cook everything from Italian to Korean and Chinese, but I was trying to think of something unique for Cebu. I was always planning to open a restaurant and it was just a matter of deciding what kind.”

An American of Irish descent, Larry noticed that what Cebu needs is more places that would offer the culinary specialties of his forefather’s homeland, as well as the fun experience of being in a pub.

“From the beer standpoint, we have everything,” Larry said. “We have local beers and we also have a complete line of imported ones from Ireland, Germany, Belgium and the United States.”

Marshall’s serves Guinness Draught, Guinness Foreign Extra, Heineken, Fullers London Pride, Dettinger, Hoegaarden and many more.

Marshall’s also has a complete bar for those who would rather have cocktails, or taste some of its signature drinks like the Greentini, Irish Pride or Shamrocker Cocktail.

As for the food side of its menu, Marshall’s offers mainly classic Irish dishes with grilled burgers and sandwiches on the side.

It serves Cheesy Boxty, which is Larry’s take on the traditional Irish snack boxty. It is a square-shaped potato pancake that is seasoned with melting cheese and spring onions. Other must-tries are the Emerald Isle Calamares and Fish & Chips, as both are dipped in Larry’s “secret Guinness beer batter.”

Marshall’s nightly entertainment consists of acoustic performers, making it a good place for one to unwind after a long, stressful day. As how the folks in Ireland go straight to their pubs, Cebuanos can likewise head to Marshall’s for a fun and relaxing time. Cheers!

Marshall’s Irish Pub Bar & Restaurant is in Century Plaza Commercial Complex at Juana Osmeña St., Cebu City. It is open from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. on Mondays to Saturdays.