You don’t need an excuse—or a holiday—to enjoy a great Irish pub. But if you’re looking for the perfect spot to raise a pint, swap stories, you'll find some of the best, just due west of Chicago.
From warm, wood-paneled hideaways pouring perfectly poured Guinness to lively spots with live music and hearty Irish grub, these pubs offer more than just a place to drink—they’re community hubs, where conversation flows as freely as the whiskey. Whether you're craving a classic fish and chips, a night of tunes, or just a cozy corner to unwind, there’s an Irish pub waiting for you.
Here are some of the best Irish pubs near Oak Park!
Irish Times
A beloved Brookfield institution, this award-winning pub captures the heart and soul of a true Irish gathering place. Recognized as the top Irish pub in Chicagoland for 2023, it delivers an experience steeped in tradition—from its perfectly poured pints to its cozy, welcoming atmosphere, with a fireplace for those colder days.
Their signature shepherd’s pie, featured on Chicago’s Best, is a standout on a menu filled with classic Irish comfort food. Paired with an impressive selection of Irish beers, this spot offers an authentic taste of Ireland, making it a can’t-miss destination. Plus, be on the lookout for their year round event schedule. This bar really knows how to throw a party!
Click here to learn more.
Ryan's Public House
Ryan’s Public House is a cozy neighborhood gem that brings the warmth and charm of a classic Irish pub to Brookfield. With well-poured pints, and hearty but oh so delicious pub food, it’s the perfect spot to unwind with friends or enjoy a casual meal.
Their menu features Irish favorites like shepherd’s pie and fish and chips, alongside a great selection of beers and whiskeys. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick drink, catching live music, or looking for a spot to watch the game, Ryan’s Public House delivers an authentic pub experience with a friendly, local touch.
Click here to learn more.
Celtic Corner
Celtic Corner is a neighborhood bar in Elmwood Park, where the welcome is always warm, the bartenders are friendly, and the vibe is laid-back and fun. It features a unique dive bar atmosphere and daily deals on pizza and chips; it's the perfect spot to relax and unwind after a long day.
But that's not all - Celtic Corner is also known for featuring incredible live music acts and even karaoke nights! Whether you're in the mood for a pint, a laugh, or some great tunes, this is the place to be. Come experience the neighborhood feel and friendly atmosphere that has made (and keeps) Celtic Corner a beloved spot for locals.
Click here to learn more.
Angelo O'Leary's
So it's not exactly an Irish Pub, but it fits the description in many ways. Angelo O'Leary's in Forest Park is where a traditional Irish pub meets New Orleans-inspired cuisine. The inside looks and feels like your classic Chi-rish establishment, but the menu tells a different story.
From fried green tomatoes and succulent BBQ shrimp to classic po'boys and juicy burgers, there are lots of options to sink your teeth into. Plus, plenty of great food and drink specials all year round.
Click here to learn more.
Duffy's
You can’t miss this classic Irish watering hole—Duffy’s Tavern in Forest Park stands out with its bright green facade and bold red awning proudly bearing its name. Inside, you'll find a no-frills, old-school pub where regulars and newcomers alike are greeted with a friendly smile and a perfectly poured pint.
Known for its great vibes, affordable drinks, and lively conversations, Duffy’s is the kind of spot where everyone feels like a local. Whether you’re stopping in for a cold Guinness, catching a game, or just soaking in the neighborhood charm, this Forest Park staple delivers the quintessential Irish pub experience. Although there's no kitchen at Duffy's, you're welcome to bring food in from some of the neighboring restaurants.
Click here to learn more.
O'Sullivan's
Looking for a fun and delicious spot to unwind in Forest Park? Look no further than O'Sullivan's Public House! Their cozy neighborhood pub in the heart of downtown is the perfect place to grab a drink and some pub fare with friends. They have a fantastic selection of daily food and drink specials, including out-of-this-world pub food.
You won't be able to resist their mouth-watering appetizers like mini sliders and chicken wings or their savory entrees like the patty melt and fish and chips. And when the weather is nice, take your meal outside to our fabulous outdoor patio. So grab some friends and grab a seat at O'Sullivan's.
Click here to learn more.
Shanahan's
Get ready to experience the best of both worlds at Shanahan's in Forest Park! With a unique blend of New Orleans and Irish culture, Shanahan's is the perfect spot for foodies and pub-lovers alike. Founded in New Orleans in 1977, Shanahan's has been serving up delicious Creole cuisine for decades.
Now located in Forest Park, this authentic Creole restaurant has become a staple in the Chicago area's food scene. Whether you're in the mood for traditional pub fare or want to spice things up with some flavorful Creole dishes, Shanahan's has something for everyone. Come raise a glass and say "cheers" with a touch of New Orleans and Ireland at Shanahan's!
Click here to learn more.
Mike O'Donnell's Irish Pub
Welcome to Mike O'Donnell's Irish Pub in Franklin Park, where the clock always strikes beer thirty! This cozy neighborhood Irish bar is a local favorite, and it's not hard to see why. With an impressive selection of drinks and rotating specials for both food and beverages, there's always something new to try.
But that's not all - if you're looking for entertainment, Mike O'Donnell's has plenty. Get your game on with their selection of games, belt out your favorite tunes during karaoke night, or kick back and enjoy some live music. They hope to see you there!
Click here to learn more.
St. Patrick's Day holds a special place in Chicago, where the city’s deep Irish heritage and love for celebration come together to create one of the most vibrant and well-known St. Paddy’s Day festivities in the world. Chicago’s Irish roots date back to the 19th century when a large wave of Irish immigrants settled in the city, seeking opportunities and bringing their traditions with them. Over time, the Irish community became deeply ingrained in Chicago’s cultural and political fabric, influencing everything from labor movements to local government.
One of the most famous ways Chicago honors St. Patrick’s Day is by dyeing the Chicago River a brilliant shade of green—a unique tradition that dates back to 1962. The annual parade, one of the largest in the country, draws thousands of spectators who line the streets for a sea of bagpipers, Irish dancers, and festive floats. Beyond the parade, the city's many Irish pubs and neighborhoods, such as Beverly and Bridgeport, come alive with live music, traditional fare, and plenty of Guinness flowing from the taps.
For Chicagoans, St. Patrick’s Day isn’t just about celebrating Irish heritage—it’s about embracing the city’s history, coming together as a community, and keeping the spirit of Ireland alive with enthusiasm that rivals any celebration outside of the Emerald Isle.
Ask your bartender if they have any of these on tap!
Guinness - a dark Irish stout with a creamy head and a rich, malty flavor
Smithwick's - an Irish red ale with a smooth, slightly sweet taste
Harp Lager - a crisp lager with a light body and a clean finish
Magners - a refreshing, slightly sweet cider
Kilkenny - a creamy, smooth Irish ale with a slightly sweet flavor
Murphy's Irish Stout - a dark, velvety stout with a dry finish and hints of chocolate and coffee
Beamish Irish Stout - a rich, full-bodied stout with a creamy head and a roasted malt flavor
In addition to these traditional beers, many Irish pubs also offer a selection of mixed beers, such as a Black and Tan (a mix of Guinness and pale ale), a Half and Half (a mix of Guinness and Harp Lager), or a Snakebite (a mix of cider and lager). These mixed beers can be a fun way to try new flavors and add a bit of variety to your pint.
Whatever your choice, meet us at one of these incredible Irish pubs this St. Patrick's Day!