The Irish Rover — Restaurant in Hamburg

My child and I love the trad sessions at the Irish Rover, and they’ve been a special part of our Sundays for quite some time. However, during our last visit, I was deeply disappointed by how unwelcoming the environment felt toward us. My kid was excited about the music, as always, so we arrived a little early to ensure we were on time. While waiting for the music to start, he played quietly with his toys on the floor - something we were asked to stop, despite the pub being nearly empty and him not being in anyone's way.

I understand that perhaps he was being a little too loud when expressing his joy dancing and playing at the start of the session, so since we had ordered food already, we moved back upstairs for dinner. As he waited for his chips to cool, he sat under the table with his toy, not disturbing anyone in the mostly empty pub. Yet we were asked to leave.

As a single mom, I understand the importance of respecting public spaces, and I always strive to ensure my child is considerate. However, the lack of warmth and flexibility made us feel extremely unwelcome, especially being asked to leave so shortly after our food arrived. We didn't even get to finish or take home our meal. It’s disheartening when places don’t show understanding for the needs of their patrons. Having experienced the true spirit of community and togetherness in Ireland’s pubs, I was really saddened that this sense of inclusion wasn’t reflected here.

I hope the staff can be more open and accommodating, especially during quieter times, so that the atmosphere becomes more inclusive for everyone - children...

Sad to be writing this... The Irish Rover used to be my absolute favorite Irish pub in all of Hamburg (and beyond). Countless evenings, birthdays and sessions were spent here eating the amazing food, drinking the delicious whiskey, and enjoying the music and the warm, cozy atmosphere. I was so excited to come back here with my friends after restrictions had been lifted.

Sadly, the pub has changed ownership and with it the menu, the prices, and even the interior. The service now was ok at best, nothing compared to the warmth and welcoming atmosphere that used to be so common here. But the menu was the most disappointing. Higher prices for a much smaller selection of overall uninspired, mediocre food. The shepherd's pie was fine, but the fries and burgers were quite dry and didn't taste like much.

Whoever here wrote that it's now much better than it used to be either has no taste buds or is a bought reviewer (looking at you, raving "fans" with exactly 1 single review on Google Maps...). Instead of resorting to these types of tactics, perhaps the new ownership could take a few pages out of the previous owner's book. You have big shoes to fill, which must be challenging, but you need to step...

We were a walk-in of four today and we were greeted by very friendly staff straight away. We all decided on the steak and whisky pie, which was superb. One of the best pies I had in Hamburg, let alone Germany. The pastry was fluffy and tasty, the chips were really good too and the best thing is, they got malt vinegar. Drought beer is always a treat and the sticky toffee pudding we had for dessert was devine. Again, the staff was super friendly and joked around with us, gave us great recommendations in terms of the menu and was just always there when we needed them, without having to ask for them. The cozy pub atmosphere just made all the better and we just felt right at home. Will definitely come back and would...