The Harp Irish Pub

THIS VENUE IS CLOSED

The Harp mostly avoids the wanton kitsch usually associated with Irish pubs. While there is a sign in the middle of the main bar area advising patrons that it's 12 miles to Galway, it's almost possible to believe it's true, particularly if you have entered through the main doors off the highway. As you would expect, the décor conforms more or less to the Irish Pub School of Design that suggests as much green upholstery and wood panelling as possible, with the impressive addition of stained glass windows that advertise different brands of booze. The Tooheys window is notable for the lovingly rendered schooner glass in the middle of it. The abundance of polished wood corresponds encouragingly with a complete absence of pokies. A renowned live music venue, the Harp features local and international folk acts as well as a bistro that offering some of the best pub fare around. The standard menu offers Guinness pie, the 'Very Very Famous Harp Irish Burger' and some more traditional Irish meals, with most under $15. There's a kids' menu too. Being an Irish pub, it naturally has Guinness and Kilkenny on tap, with pints costing around $6.50. A genuinely welcoming and friendly atmosphere combined with great food in a comfortable setting makes the Harp a great place to have a meal and a drink with family and friends and perhaps catch a show afterwards. It's only 15 minutes down the Princes Highway from Newtown, and worth the drive if only to taste the Guinness Pie.