I will start by saying there is typically nothing I hate more than an Irish pub, they are always corny, the beer is usually border line terrible, and the decor almost always cheesey.
However, when I saw how full the patio was I had to give Hurley's a try. I headed in and dared to order a pint of the black, and was very excited to be served a good pint of Guinness, probably the best I have had in Canada. The bar man was kind and attentive. Although there was a certain cheese factor like all other Irish pubs, this one lacked the over the top cheesiness which kept it tolerable. Another bonus, in addition to the patio in front there is also a good side patio in the back with heaters which pump out, well, heat.
The patrons in this pub were great craic; mostly filled with tourists it was nice and social, a friendly place. I felt if I walked in the next day people may have really known my name.
I would definately recommend this place to start out your night on Crescent!