After settling down in our room, I meandered down to the Ritz’s bar and grill, fondly called McGill’s. I immediately loved the atmosphere. Dark furniture was situated on a lovely wood floor and vintage pictures and antique accessories lined the walls. I found a cozy corner a few feet away from a crackling fire after teaching Ian, the bartender, how to concoct my signature drink, a Shirley Temple. As I type away, another bartender, Sean, approaches me. “Would you like a roasted marshmallow?” Uhhhh. “Sure!” I replied. And then watched in slight shock as he retrieved a bowl of marshmallows, got down on his knee and hand-roasted me a marshmallow. Talk about service! “I hope this makes your night,” he said, after introducing himself as Sean. The marshmallow was delicious too, in case you were wondering. (Sean proceeded to offer marshmallows to the other guests as well – so this was standard procedure, not extra special attention).
Avonie joined me soon after and we ordered a hearty pub dinner. I chose a sirloin steak sandwich, and I was not disappointed. Avonie also convinced me to order my very first Guinness, despite my protests. I was also bribed by Sean, who allowed me to pour the Guinness myself. It tasted great, and fulfilled all of my expectations about Irish Guinness. During dinner, we were also allowed to try a sample of Bulmer’s Cider, which was amazing. You could barely tell it was alcohol, which reminded me that I should drink it in moderation. McGill’s is a delightful hotel pub, conveniently situated, and I am sure that I will visit it often during our stay here.
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