When you’re abroad, as an American, about the first thing you look for is the Irish pub. It’s where you’ll find all the other American tourists … but also the friendliest locals. Finally, Aspen has its own Irish pub in the newly-opened Finbarr’s Irish Pub & Kitchen. With lots of strategically-placed big screens, plenty of beers (and cider!) on tap, and tasty food, Finbarr’s is one new Aspen restaurant that’s likely to be around for a long time.
My first visit, I ate mainly off the appetizer menu. My second, the bar menu. My third and fourth, just drinks. Overall the portions aren’t huge, but they aren’t expensive either, so I’m ok with it. Maybe it’s not the best place for post-pickup-basketball grub, but for snacks or a girls’ night, the food is tasty and creative.
Can't go wrong with Guinness cheese fondue and pretzel bread ($10)
Kale (instead of spinach) artichoke dip ... not my favorite app ($?)
Mussels were delicious: fresh and tasty, but not standout ($11)
I also had the french onion soup ($6 and delish) and the braised greens ($5 and not so delish). The bangers and mash got rave reviews from my companions, the burger not as much, though more for its size than flavor. Every time I’ve been in Finbarr’s, it has been packed with locals and tourists—which is exactly what you want in a real Irish pub.