I’ll start by saying that I lived in Dublin, Ireland, granted, for only a few months, but had a chance to witness firsthand, the chaos of Temple Bar and the relaxing atmosphere of countless traditional, fiddle-infused Irish pubs. Even with my short experience in Ireland, I miss the environment that true Irish pubs provide. To date, I have never felt that I could walk into any bar in the GTA and meet my new best-friend, whom I will share a pint of Guinness with, then never see again. Point being, I have yet to experience a real reproduction of the home-style feel, fiddle ‘n flute, pub environment in a GTA bar until now.
Outfitted with an ice rink in the winter (and outdoor fire pit) and a relaxing (and rare 40 seat’er) patio in the summer, Ceili’s Cottage is no question a far taste of Ireland from the outside. However, from the minute you step in the front door, owner Patrick McMurray (renowned oyster shucker and owner of Starfish), has created a true Dubliner experience. Although the bar is a little less lively when McMurray is M.I.A. (and watch out for the mildly snooty waittresses), the bar staff generally does a good job ensuring your drink is always full.
Stay for a proper pint (12 taps - Guinness, Harp, Kilkenny, and Smithwick's, rounded out by other stouts, ales, and lagers from brewers of Ontario and Quèbec); outstanding oysters (but overpriced compared to Pure Spirits or Rodney's); or just snack from the $1-$5 taster menu (I recommend the homemade kettle chips). Trust me on this one, you and your buds will quickly forget that you are in the GTA after only moments of your first sips of dark ale.
Classic fare options range from Mac and cheese to Mutton Stew to good ‘ol Bangers and Mash. Keep in mind, the menu reads: Hot on Sunday; Cold on Monday; Hashed on Tuesday; Minced on Wednesday; Curried on Thursday; Broth on Friday; Cottage Pie on Saturday.
If you are a scotch drinker, this is the place to discover a new favourite; I recommend a taste of the Glenkanichie or Talisker, but truthfully, I am waiting for McMurray to stock-up on Auchentoshen 12yr, only recently approved for import from the Edinburgh area!
All in all, with classic Newfy, New Brunny and PEI tunes pumping out the speakers, I guarantee a fun night out. Non-regulars, watch out for the ‘ringing-of-the-bell-announcements’ and the creepy crawlers hanging from the ceiling.
Recommendation: Try one (or a few) of the unique cocktails created by, The Thirsty Traveller, Kevin Brauch; be sure to order at least a dozen oysters; and choose from either Bangers and Mash or the daily special. Also, try and check out Tuesday night for some live music by local musicians.
Hours of Operation: Monday to Wednesday, 5 pm - 12 am; Thursday and Friday, 5 pm - 2 am; Saturday, 12 noon - 2 am; Sunday, 12 noon - 11 pm
Price: Apps. $1-$5 / Mains $10-$15
Address: 1301 Queen Street East
Website: http://www.ceilicottage.com/
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