I just realized I've never reviewed this place. I have been coming here for 11 years and actually love it more each time I walk through the door. The service is always friendly and there's always a nice mix of people in the crowd.
The beer selection is decent and they almost always have a special. Check the website for daily specials. You can't go wrong with anything on the menu. They have a fantastic reuben.
Parking can be difficult even in the huge lot. Just keep in mind there are often events going on at gaelic park. Don't let it deter you from going in. I've never had a problem getting a table.
This is a perfect spot to relax with friends over some food and drinks. They have live music pretty often as well. I've never had a problem holding a conversation in there even with the music.
I can't believe it took me so long to get here! Gaelic Park is a bit off the beaten track, yes, but it was a worthwhile hike.
The Carraig is a pub for folks young and older. The bar was quite nice and fully stocked, with a very relaxed, casual atmosphere. The staff was pleasant and quick. Beer and food were both dirty cheap. We ordered 3 beers, fries and cheese sticks and the total was only $20! Whoo hoo!
I am planning a return trip to try more of the menu and hopefully check out some of the live entertainment they have on weekends.
I am not Irish, I don't like Irish music, I don't even like Irish women (too bullheaded!), but I absolutely love this place! Â Top notch Shepard's Pie, also try the Beef & Guinness pie. Â The ribs are some of the best in the Chicago area, they only have them on Wednesdays, and they're REALLY cheap, I'm talking under $8/half slab with baked potato! Â
True pub atmosphere, sometimes live entertainment, nothing fancy, better than average service (sometimes with a brogue), and damn good food.
Guinness & Smithwicks on tap, this place is worth driving to the suburbs for!
Undoubtedly one of the most genuine Irish Pubs in all the southern suburbs (perhaps all of Chicagoland), the Carraig is a hidden gem worth discovering.
Nestled in the arms of Gaelic Park, you'll discover a warm, cozy atmosphere the minute you walk through their front doors. Â A brilliant stained glass ceiling will light your way as you make your way to the back for a seat at the bar, or if you're with a party, there's an abundant seating area all around. Â It does have a tendency to get a little crowded at the bar (depending on the night you're there), but I think you'll find that the Bartenders will do their best to fill your order as soon as they can. Â It's not at all uncommon to see four or five half filled pints of Guinness waiting to settle under each tap since they take their pours quite seriously. Â If you're a fan of the stout like I am, you'll appreciate that. Â If there are musicians playing that evening, it can get a bit loud so your conversations may be a bit strained, but it truly does add to the atmosphere and will make your visit much more enjoyable. Â
Anyway, if you're in the area and a bit thirsty, stop in. Â But check out a map first. Â Since it's surrounded by forest preserves, you won't have much but the Gaelic Park sign out in front to let you know you're there!
As a native South Sider I've backlashed against the typical Western Ave. bar scene and have claimed the Carraig as an adopted home pub.
Good selection/great atmosphere. Bar area can get a little cramped at times, but there's plenty of seating. Super friendly staff and tasty food.
I've never failed to have a good time here.
The Carraig is definitely my favorite Irish pub in the south suburbs. As the reviewer before me stated, the service is great, the Guiness is fresh, and the food is, in fact, outstanding. It's a nice place to go when you don't want to hang out with the just-turned-21 kind of crowd, but it's not a bunch of angry old men who hate life, either. The tables are nicely spaced so you don't feel like you're sitting on top of a stranger, and the noise level (aside from when they have musical acts performing) is great for having a normal conversation.
Review Source:In my opinion, this is the best Irish Pub in the South Suburbs. Always great service, very friendly. (Most of the staff are actually from Ireland) The Guinness is always fresh, and the food is outstanding. The atmosphere is very warm and cozy. Dark wood tables, stained glass decoration on the ceiling and lots of Irish memorabilia.
They also have trivia nights on Tuesdays in the Fall and Winter, and live music on the weekends.