Looking for an authentic Irish dining experience with St. Patrick’s Day just around the corner? Look no further than Ashling on the Lough in Downtown Kenosha. Nestled between the Kenosha Harbor and museum campus, festive flavors and drinks combine at this comfy spot celebrating all things Irish all year long.
Ashling on the Lough (pronounced “läk”, an Irish term for “lake”) has been serving up a traditional Irish pub experience of food, drinks and live music since 2008. Guests can warm up by the cozy wood-burning stove during cold Wisconsin winters or enjoy the cool Lake Michigan breeze on its dog-friendly outdoor patio in summer months.
Belly up to the beautiful wooden bar that features an extensive tap list of Irish and European favorites. Ashling on the Lough’s whiskey game is on par with an entire page of selections to choose from. All served by the charming bartender and general manager Paul Ward who hails from County Clare, Ireland. Try the Irish Mule or the award-winning Bloody Mary, made with Guinness.
Small plates for sharing include twists on traditional favorites like curry chips, Reuben rolls, Colcannon Poppers and poutine. The fresh steamed Molly Malone mussels in a white wine sauce are light, herbaceous and the perfect starter. Drunken mushrooms, served in a sweet honey and whiskey cream sauce, are another local favorite.
Irish comfort food abounds in their main dishes, including the Cottage Pie – made with a rich braised beef, hearty veggies and herbed mash potatoes. Wednesday night’s feature is the creamy potpie, loaded with root vegetables, spices and finished with a glistening crust. Guests cannot go wrong with the quintessential beer-battered cod fish fry, an Irish tradition. Burgers, meatloaf, pot roast and chicken all round out the menu. For lighter fare, try the Irish root soup with a hint of ginger or the salmon salad. Gluten-free, vegetarian and dairy-free options are all available.
Don’t skip the dessert! A warm and buttery bread pudding with a hint of caramel and a slight boozy finish is the perfect ending, along with an Irish coffee.
Open for weekend brunch, lunch and dinner, this welcoming Irish gem draws in a mix of locals, business folks, families and date nights. Happy hour runs seven days a week from 3 to 5 p.m. with $5 taps and $6 select appetizers. Stop in for Make a Wish Mondays where five percent of all sales go to the organization, helping local kids with their wish.
For more information, visit Ashling on the Lough at ashlingonthelough.com.