Cocktail Corner: A Bit of the Blarney About Dargan’s

Dargans (courtesy photo)

Dargans (courtesy photo)

A spirited toast to all things alcoholic!  By Leslie Dinaberg

Irish eyes are always smiling at Dargan’s, one of my favorite downtown pubs (18 E. Ortega St., 805/568-0702). Of course the place will be rocking this weekend in honor of St. Patrick’s Day, but it’s a great place to tipple any time of the year. Try a specialty pint, like the Black & Tan (3/4 Ale topped with a 1/4 “hat” of Guinness) or the Snakebite (1/2 Cider and 1/2 Harp); or choose from an impressive list of Irish Whiskeys, including Clontarf, Knappogue Single Malt and Tullamore Dew, along with all of the usual suspects.

Owned by third generation pub-meister Paul Dargan, who has mastered the art of keeping the atmosphere upbeat, casual and friendly, Dargan’s is a kid-friendly place to boot. When my son was young, we escaped a few rainy afternoons playing Foosball at Dargan’s. They also have plenty of pool tables available, and often have live music—everything from traditional Irish tunes to folk, rock ‘n’ roll and even Karaoke.

Plus the food is great. “The Shrimp” (mouth-watering shrimp sautéed with spicy chili garlic butter and server on a bed of mashed potatoes), beer battered Fish & Chips and the Chicken Pot Pie are my favorites. And you can’t go wrong with the Irish Pub Chocolate Bread Pudding with Irish cream sauce and a shot of Bailey’s in your coffee.

Cheers to the Irish in all us!

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Leslie Dinaberg

Leslie Dinaberg

When she’s not busy working as the editor of Santa Barbara SEASONS, Cocktail Corner author Leslie Dinaberg writes magazine articles, newspaper columns and grocery lists. When it comes to cocktails, Leslie considers herself a “goal-oriented drinker.”

Originally published in Santa Barbara SEASONS on March 15, 2013.

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