Shillelagh Pub @ Friendly Sons of the Shillelagh — Restaurant in West Orange

Last night I decided to check out this old-school bar in West Orange, NJ. I heard about a Grateful Dead cover band was playing there. The place was packed when I got there. Mostly with folks looking to grab a drink and some Grub. The food smelled pretty good All greasy and delicious but I was feeling healthy so I passed.

I managed to snag a seat at a table next to the sound guy. A cool dude who was clearly in his element. He let me sit there and I spent the rest of the night immersed in the music. The band was incredible. They started off strong with "Might as well" and "Bird Song," and just kept on delivering. The keyboard player, the singer, everyone was on point. The second set was even better, with "Sugaree," "China Cat Sunflower," "I Know You Rider," "St. Stephen or "Eyes of the World." I stayed for the whole show, including the encore of "Jack Straw."

The only downside was the bartenders. I don't know what their deal was. But they just seemed off. It took forever to get a Guinness and when I finally did I tried to make some small talk about the cool tap, but they just gave me a blank stare. And then the worst part: This One Bartender Started spraying this chemical cleaner right as the sound guy was doing a killer harmonica solo on "Not Fade Away." It was like She Didn't even care about the Music. It was a Total Buzzkill.

Overall though, It was a Great night. The music was amazing. The atmosphere was cool. And I met some interesting people. A Unique Spot that clearly passes...

The Shillelagh Club is a delightfully interesting place.

Set back off Prospect Avenue across from the golf course, nestled against Seton Hall Prep’s athletic fields, the large free parking makes the building and surroundings not so easy to spot.

Once you find it, it’s an older building mixed with some modern amenities. It may not be completely true to an Irish pub, but it has charm. The inside is a clean, including one of the cleanest bathrooms around. Lighting is dim and the walls are painted sheetrock or brick. Outdoor has a nice, large newly built deck, with a downstairs space for lawn games. Though we have only been a few times, it is very hit or miss when it is crowded. Events tend to draw a larger crowd.

Everyone on the staff is extremely friendly and knowledgeable of the limited menu.

The food is good for a small pub making mostly fried food, with some sandwiches, and Irish staples. The mozzarella wedges were a plus, while the pizza fries were a miss. Mostly due to the difficulty to eat.

Drinks are also as expected, with Guinness, Smithwick’s, and Jameson as well as other classic American staples. Typically nothing too exotic is offered to eat or drink.

There is a happy hour, though the only two beers listed, one hasn’t been on tap. Prices are about average, with $5-$7 beers and $10 sandwiches.

What the Shillelagh Club lacks in appearance, the staff and overall charm make for a nice...

Dance floor is small and packed. Don’t sit at those tables. Those tables are way too close to the dance floor. I advise that if you don’t want to sit at the bar, choose a table outside. Men and women don’t notice that you’re sitting there (most likely they are drunk). Your personal bubble will be intruded no doubt. I felt very uncomfortable, overwhelmed, and anxious. I’m usually kind but bc my space was very invaded, I felt very anxious and miserable, so I came off as “rude” unintentionally. I should have walked out for some fresh air. This isn’t the place to go to as an introvert. Was not a welcoming, friendly, and fun experience bc you feel FORCED to fake a smile and to fake fun. If you’re not an extrovert, you are noticed among the crowd and it’s embarrassing/humiliating bc the people there think it’s a bad thing. Never in my life did I ever experience something traumatic like this at a public place. It was absolutely unnecessary. I guess live music bars aren’t my thing. However, I do love outdoor concerts bc nobody treats me like the odd one out for not being social and dancing...