The Irish Oak Salutes Old World Tradition And Gaelic Cuisine With Contemporary Flair February 17, 2011

CHICAGO - Voted one of the “Top 10 Best Irish Pubs in the U.S.” by MSNBC in 2010, The Irish Oak, 3511 N. Clark St., is the ideal blend of Old World Irish tradition coupled with a Chicago sports bar feel. A Wrigleyville institution, The Irish Oak features daily Gaelic specialties, authentic whiskey, and perfect pints. Most of the interior, including two full bars, have been imported directly from Ireland, creating an experience as authentic as its Guinness.

Cubs fans and Wrigleyville locals alike flock to this unique pub for its twist on traditional Irish fare. The Irish Oak also offers tantalizing appetizers, sandwiches, and burgers. Featured specialties include the Guinness Stew; Irish Nachos, a mountain of cross-cut fries topped with cheddar cheese, bacon, scallions, and sour cream; Bangers and Mashed; and the Guinness Float. The Big Onion Burger and the Corned Beef Sliders are priced at $11 and $9 respectively.

The Irish Oak boasts various daily specials. On Wednesdays, domestic drafts are $3; on Thursdays, the Irish Tour is the specialty, a drink that is a combination of Irish whiskey and beer ($7); on Fridays, guests will enjoy the All-You-Can-Eat Fish-n-Chips ($8); and on Saturdays and Sundays during their popular brunch, $5 Bloody Marys and $15 bottomless Mimosas are featured.

The pub offers an extensive drink menu with over 40 different types of whiskey, including organic whiskeys, and 15 beers on tap. Those who finish a bottle of Jameson are encouraged to sign the bottle, which is then displayed along the perimeter of the pub. At the back of the bar, guests may enjoy their favorite pint at the Signature Whiskey Still Room, which intrinsically transports visitors to the genuine, century-old pubs found in Ireland.

The Irish Oak is famous for its Kegs & Eggs weekend brunch and monthly Whiskey & Bacon Tasting, where the head chef creates unforgettable, scrumptious aperitifs such as ostrich-wrapped bacon and bite-sized bacon sandwiches every second Thursday of the month. The $20 tasting includes five whiskey and bacon-infused pairings.

Not only is The Irish Oak well versed in gastronomy, but it is also an entertainment destination, with its Comedy Night on Tuesday evenings, and live musical performances on weekends. Through Mar. 19, The Irish Oak will televise all of the rugby games live for the “6 Nations Rugby Tournament.” The Irish Oak, home to Notre Dame fans, caters to all types of private parties, including fundraisers for charitable organizations, with its customizable food and drink packages and private event rooms, which can seat up to 100 people.

The Irish Oak is open Tuesday through Friday from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m., Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 a.m., Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. The bar is open every day of the week come Cubs season and opens two hours early for home games. Reservations are accepted by calling. It is easily accessible with public transportation. For additional information, visit www.irishoak.com or www.facebook.com/irishoak.

About Big Onion Tavern Group
Chicago-based hospitality company, Big Onion Tavern Group, serves up some of the best food, events, and entertainment the city has to offer at each of its restaurants: 404 Wine Bar Co. and Jack’s Bar & Grill, 2856 N. Southport, Ave.; The Irish Oak, 3511 N. Clark St.; and The Spread Bar & Grill, 2476 N. Lincoln Ave. For more information or special events reservations, call 312-643-0440 or visit www.bigoniontaverngroup.com.