Finn McCool's

Brisbane's favourite Irish Pub, Finn McCool's is a Fortitude Valley institution, mixing the best of Irish tradition with inner city cool, where patrons come for the beer and a hearty bite, and stay for the craic (Irish good times).

Located in the middle of the Brunswick Street Mall, Finn McCool's pays homage to the historic building it occupies, with exposed rustic brick walls and rafters, pressed metal ceiling out front, and a café bar in the laneway outside.

Inside are all sorts of nooks and crannies, with glass-windowed, vine-festooned booths, barrel feature walls, pool tables, large communal tables under the striking old world chandeliers, open kitchen at the back and a large bar trimmed with stained glass running along one side.

Drinks wise, as well as the compulsory Guinness and Irish beers and ciders on tap - think Kilkenny, Magners and Bulmers -you'll find an extensive range of whiskeys including Irish faves, a selection of boutique wines, and and a range of classic cocktails like Espresso Martini, Negroni, and Aperol Spritz, plus Finn McCool's signature Mango Mule - Smirnoff vodka, De Kuyper mango liqueur, lime juice and ginger ale. 

The food menu mixes classic Irish dishes with traditional pub grub, all done very well. For a traditional taste of Ireland, there's Bangers & Mash with lashings of rich Guinness sauce, Beef & Guinness pie, and Finn McCool's famous Chicken Curry - Ireland's favourite McDonnell's curry sauce, succulent chicken breast served with fluffy rice and seasoned fries. 

On Sundays, the venue offers a delicious Sunday Roast Dinner with three roast options (including a vegetarian option) served with roast potatoes, butter glazed veggies, and Yorkshire pudding drizzled with rich gravy.

As well as being a great place for a hearty feed, drinks and outstanding Irish hospitality, Finn McCool's is the Valley's go-to for all the live sporting action, while every weekend you can enjoy a top line-up of live entertainment.

And when it comes to major events, Finn McCool's is the Valley's epicentre of St Patrick's Day celebrations, hosting its own annual St Patrick's Day Festival with piped bands, Irish dancing, feasting and drinking.

Open daily from 11am till late, Finn McCool's is the kind of casual welcoming place to drop in to any time of day, whether with a large group or solo.

Good to know – Finn McCool was an Irish legendary giant, hunter and warrior, who, according to mythology, still lives in a cave below Dublin ready to return when Ireland needs him most.

Finn McCool's is a valued partner of Must Do Brisbane.com