Blarney Stone Pub

Interesting place with a fun decor. I went for the Shepard's Pie.  Meh.  It came in a cute little cast iron pot and the serving size was relatively small. Ordered a Caesar which was fresh, crispy but not teeming in flavour
The Shepard Pie was okay.  The meat really lacked seasoning. It was nice and hot but really needed some flavour

I've been looking for a "base of operations" since moving to Bismarck and I think I've found it at the Blarney Stone. I've only been here twice mind you, but that's only because I'm forcing myself (and my wife) to try every establishment before we settle in on a regular spot.

What we're looking for is a once-a-week place to visit with one another over a few drinks and maybe - maybe - some food. We both eat paleo, which makes finding appropriate meals outside of our house challenging, so we're mostly interested in the overall vibe of a place.

I guess I'll start with the food: It's been a draw so far. I ordered the Shepherd's Pie the first time and my wife ordered the Angry Chicken Caesar Salad. The Shepherd's Pie was piping hot, which was nice, but it was also rather soupy. Lackluster. And the Angry Chicken Caesar Salad? Hold on, I'm going to need a new paragraph...

I guess the theory management is going with here is that if one enjoys one's self a Caesar Salad and he or she occasionally partakes in some Buffalo Chicken Wings, well, then doesn't it make some sense to kill two birds with one stone and throw them on the same plate? The answer is "no." In fact, what you have created is an abomination so foul, so ... insulting to the palate that it makes me question everything. Just, don't. Have wings on the menu and certainly have a classically prepared Caesar Salad on the menu, and if some crazy radical comes in and asks you to mix the two together then, by all means, satisfy the customer. But leave me be!

The second time we ate I had the Corned Beef and Creamed Cabbage and my wife had the Black & Tan Sirloin. Both were delightful.

Anyway, the atmosphere here is just what we're looking for.  It's downright romantic. There's a hearty selection of beer and wine to choose from. The clientele is all over the place and always looks to be having a good time.

One thing that sets this place apart is the multitude of zones. There is a number of bar rooms to choose from with different architecture and decor. There is a garage door that opens in the warmer months if you wish to watch the street action. There's even intimate balcony and under-balcony seating.

Yes, there is a hint of Disneyfication in the decor. It does remind me a smidge of Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament. But get some good company and a couple of drinks and you'll be ready to joust.

Definitely one of the best bar scenes in Bismarck.

Good food. Attentive server. Fun Celtic music!