McGettigan's — Restaurant in Bahrain Island

Adliya is where the overspill of neighbouring Juffair is in regard to nightlife. It’s dusty dirt filled busy roads are intertwined with bars and restaurants that cater for all types of party revellers. Locals, boy racers in their fast cars from Saudi and westerners who locate here purely for financial gain and all year round sunshine.

Mid week you can take a stroll and bar hop after eating an overpriced meal somewhere. Sprinkled in amongst this metropolis melting pot you’ll find shisha bars playing Arabic music. So loud that when you enter, your ears start to bleed. Women greet you, speak in pigeon English and show you to an area of your liking. If you decide to stay that is?

Then there’s Irish Village, JJ’s, Escobar, Lanterns, Temple Bar, 21 something or other etc. Then there’s this place, you’ll hear it before seeing it. A huge outside area where the masses gravitate towards listen to yet another covers band play the same songs as everyone else in the half mile radius.

You’ll enter through a large bar area that resembles most Irish bars the world over. Though this particular one has women in search of vulnerable men with deep pockets and one thing on their mind. FYI, it’s not the football results. Smoke, bar snacks and party music is what the crowd wants and that’s exactly what they get. Men with women younger than their daughters swap phone numbers with ladies of the night. Cheap thrills and expensive drinks.

If you’re looking for sophistication, smart casual and intellectual conversation, then you’ve taken a wrong turn. If you want drunken debauchery, bad behaviour, women who couldn’t dress a salad never mind themselves, then you’re in the right place. It’s a meat market full of the 9-5 brigade letting their hair down and getting unapologetically...

I arrived at McGettigan’s full of anticipation, hoping to enjoy a proper roast dinner while watching the football with full commentary – and I wasn’t disappointed. On arrival, the server was exceptionally welcoming and helped me find the perfect seat in the bar area.

Not long after, the shifts changed, but the excellent service continued seamlessly. I was well looked after throughout the evening. When the time came for food, I was not let down – the roast dinner was lovely. The beef, in my opinion, could have been sliced a little more thinly, but it was still very tasty and satisfyingly filling.

It was a thoroughly enjoyable evening, made even better by the right result for my team! A small piece of feedback for the team managing the venue: it might be worth considering the majority of customers’ preferences during match nights. On this occasion, switching to music during breaks in play somewhat dampened the atmosphere. Given the number of supporters visibly backing one team (as shown by their jerseys), maintaining the commentary or crowd noise would likely have enhanced the experience and possibly encouraged customers to stay longer after the final whistle.

That said, this is only a minor suggestion and certainly wouldn’t stop me from returning. McGettigan’s is a fantastic venue with a brilliant team – I’m already looking forward to...

McGettigans Bahrain is a vibrant and welcoming Irish pub that has truly become a local gem. The live band that performs here is one of the highlights of the experience. Their energetic performances create an incredible atmosphere, making it a fantastic place for music enthusiasts. They cover a wide range of genres, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy.

The bartenders at McGettigans are not just skilled at mixing drinks; they are also incredibly friendly and attentive. They go above and beyond to make you feel like a valued customer. Whether you are looking for a classic pint of Guinness, a G&T or a creative cocktail, they will whip it up with a smile.

Overall, McGettigans is a place where great music and excellent service come together for a memorable night out. It is the perfect spot to unwind, enjoy live entertainment, and savor some...