I'd call this place a Birkdale "gem" since it is located away from the main drag in Birkdale but is definitely worth it to go out of your way to find this place. It had been bookmarked ("on my list") for a while now and I finally got to experience the excellence of this place.
Went with a buddy on a Tuesday evening. There was a decent size crowd watching some sports from the bar or from the tables. They had a roaring fireplace..... which upon further inspection was a gas fireplace (doh!)... but it provided some great ambiance and character to an already cozy and inviting, upscale Irish pub.
For some reason, whenever I got to a place that deems itself and "Irish Pub" I always find the urge to order traditional Irish fare and see how the food stacks up. On this particular night I ordered their fish and chips - which was highlighted on the menu as one of their specialties..... I was expecting a lot from it since I have eaten my fair share of fish and chips. My expectations were met and exceeded! The fish was perfectly cooked... the breading was light and the fries that accompanied the fish were perfect. A lot of places have a heavy hand with the breading or the fries are way too crispy or way too soggy. This was a perfect combo of fish 'n' chip goodness.
Definitely need to come back to try more on their menu - especially the BEER! I must confess, it was a work-night and I live very far away from Galway so I will probably never get to be a beer expert here, unless the restaurant lets me crash next to the nice fireplace (which I highly doubt). Typical bar offerings here... I bet this place is hopping when the weather is nice judging by the number of outdoor seating areas around the restaurant.