Finn McCool's Fortitude Valley — Restaurant in Brisbane City

After traveling through the Aussie outback for a couple of years documenting ‘Shorty’s Great Australian Pub Crawl’, I decided to settle down now that I’ve reached my golden years. Returning to my beloved Queensland my mission was to find a new local watering hole, walking distance from my apartment. I’m here to tell you by begorrah and bejaysus I struck gold!!! Nestled amongst the hustle and bustle of Fortitude Valley’s Brunswick Street Mall lies a little gem reminiscent of the rolling green hills of Ireland. The famous Finn McCools! If you’re partial to indulging in the occasional pint while watching your favourite sport on the multitude of big screen tv’s or if you prefer a night out listening to live music, then Finn McCools is where you want to be. With a laid back atmosphere and friendly staff Finns offers a vast array of Irish and local beverages as well as a mouth watering menu ranging from bangers and mash, parmies, steaks, pizzas, burgers, and other taste sensations to a traditional Sunday roast, all at a pocket friendly price. The decor of rustic timber work gives the ambiance of a quaint Irish tavern although you’re in the heart of one of Australia’s most liveable cities. The Brisbane CBD is only a short walk away, but if you’re lazy like me, the train station entrance is just across the mall. This award winning watering hole, owned and operated by the Hallmark Group is a must visit venue if you want a little taste of Ireland while visiting the Sunshine State. As is the tradition, if you’re the first to approach me and call ‘Shorty’s Shout’ your first pint will be on me! See you there! All the...

During my visit, a particular group was visibly intoxicated, engaging in disruptive behavior such as stealing drinks, verbally abusing patrons, and spilling drinks. At one point, I was verbally attacked for sitting at a table. I approached the security guard on duty, identified by badge number 009, and requested that one individual be removed due to his clear intoxication. Unfortunately, my request was ignored.

Additionally, I observed a member of this group stealing a drink from our table. When I again addressed the security about this person, the guard remarked, "I'm not kicking him out because you do not like him." This response felt dismissive and unprofessional, as my concern was based solely on the disruptive behavior I was witnessing.

It was apparent that this security guard was socializing with the group throughout the night, which raises questions about their objectivity and commitment to maintaining a safe environment for all patrons. My companion also raised a concern with the security guard, who misleadingly claimed to be the manager.

The situation I encountered reflects a serious lapse in security protocol, which is unacceptable.

I strongly urge you to provide your staff with proper training to ensure that all patrons are treated equally, regardless of personal relationships. It’s crucial that rules and regulations are upheld consistently.

Absolutely do not recommend anyone going here at all. If I could give 0 star to this...

Staff with ‘I can’t be bothered’ attitude.

While the pub looks inviting with nice décor and spacious layout, the staff is about as chilled as a frozen beer mug.

We asked about the special of the day, and he did really know. There is no food menu posted on a sign board, nor were we able to get proper menu. The only information was a small screen on the cash register that flashed some daily specials. But the guy behind the bar counter didn’t bother to point that out.

It happened to be wing day when we visited. So, we ordered some wings. Again the ‘can’t be bothered’ mantra kicked in. I had to ask what kind of sauces they come with and if there is a choice… shouldn’t the staff ask me how I’d like the wings?

Once I sat down at one of the tables (the one that was least dirty – they all needed a serious wipe down) I placed my little sign with the order number. Then went to ask for the WiFi password “we don’t have WiFI” was the snappy response… well! I’ve seen at least 2 wifi networks with the name ‘Finn’.

The final straw was when the wings were served without any paper napkins and cutlery. I had to go to the counter again and was only given a few napkins after a dismissive look and a mumbled comment, that I couldn’t understand.

The wings were ok, but the staff attitude left a...