Featured on “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives”: 5 Best Irish Inspired Pubs in the West

From seaside taverns in Oregon to high-altitude hangouts in Denver, the West has its own spin on the classic Emerald Isle watering hole. Each of the spots below earned a visit from Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, proving that you don’t have to cross the Atlantic to find cosy nooks, hearty comfort food, and a welcoming pub vibe. Map out a road trip or simply bookmark the list for future cravings—either way, these Irish-inspired joints pour plenty of West Coast personality alongside the pints.

1. Nana’s Irish Pub — Newport, OR

Indoor photo of a frothy pint of dark stout paired with a golden-brown pasty on a wooden tavern table; warm ambient light, no text or logos; photo, not illustration
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Tucked into Newport’s historic Nye Beach district, Nana’s channels the feel of a small-town Irish local, right down to the live fiddle tunes that spill onto the sidewalk on weekend nights. The kitchen leans into comfort classics and sticks to scratch cooking, which resonated with the “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives” crew. Locals love the friendly chatter at the bar almost as much as the hearty fare, making this a can’t-miss stop on any coastal Oregon getaway.

Why We Love Nana’s Irish Pub

Indoor photo of a frothy pint of dark stout paired with a golden-brown pasty on a wooden tavern table; warm ambient light, no text or logos; photo, not illustration
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Nana’s Irish Pub offers a cozy, welcoming atmosphere in Newport’s historic Nye Beach district, serving hearty Irish fare like house-battered fish and chips, comforting pot pies, and flavorful Reuben sandwiches. The pub’s commitment to authenticity and quality has earned it a loyal following among locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re seeking a warm meal after a coastal adventure or a pint of Guinness in a friendly setting, Nana’s delivers both comfort and charm.

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2. Patrick’s Roadhouse — Santa Monica, CA

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Established in 1973 in a bright-green building on the Pacific Coast Highway, Patrick’s wears its shamrocks proudly while operating somewhere between diner, roadhouse, and classic pub. Memorabilia crowds the walls—from leprechauns to license plates—which instantly charmed the “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives” cameras. Expect generous portions, bottomless mugs of joe, and the kind of come-as-you-are spirit that keeps highway travellers and regulars mingling at the same counter.

Why We Love Patrick’s Roadhouse

Indoor photo of a hearty plate of corned-beef hash next to a steaming mug of black coffee on a simple diner counter; morning light through a window, no text or logos; photo, not illustration
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Patrick’s Roadhouse is a Santa Monica institution known for its eclectic menu featuring dishes like the “Governator” egg dish and the upscale Rockefeller burger with caviar spread. The restaurant’s distinctive neon green exterior and 1940s-inspired decor make it a memorable stop along the Pacific Coast Highway. With over 35 years of serving delicious comfort food, Patrick’s Roadhouse continues to be a beloved destination for locals and travelers alike

3. Highland Tavern — Denver, CO

Indoor photo of a tall pint of amber ale beside a cast-iron skillet of bubbling pub cheese on a reclaimed-wood bar; dim tavern lighting, no text or logos; photo, not illustration
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Perched in Denver’s historic Highland neighborhood, this brick-walled watering hole nods to Celtic comfort food while staying true to Rocky-Mountain tastes. House-made pickles, slow-cooked meats, and an impressive craft-beer lineup earned the tavern a slot on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. The staff keeps things casual—swap ski stories with bartenders, then settle into a booth that feels miles away from downtown bustle.

Why We Love Highland Tavern

Indoor photo of a tall pint of amber ale beside a cast-iron skillet of bubbling pub cheese on a reclaimed-wood bar; dim tavern lighting, no text or logos; photo, not illustration
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Highland Tavern is a neighborhood bar in Denver’s Lower Highland district, celebrated for its house-made tater tots, pork rinds, and the monster pastrami sandwich featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. The tavern’s rustic charm and friendly service create a welcoming environment for patrons seeking elevated comfort food. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Highland Tavern offers a satisfying dining experience with a touch of nostalgia.

4. Waddell’s Pub & Grille — Spokane, WA

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Waddell’s may be best known for burgers the size of a small mountain, but its Irish-rooted owner sprinkles Gaelic flair throughout the menu and décor. When the “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives” crew stopped by, they found a family-friendly dining room backed by a lively sports-bar side, so you can cheer the game or keep things low-key. Spokane locals praise the generous pours and the kitchen’s dedication to scratch sauces and fresh-baked buns.

5. Humpy’s Great Alaskan Alehouse — Anchorage, AK

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Named after the local “humpy” salmon, this downtown Anchorage staple embraces the communal spirit shared by Irish public houses and Alaskan brew culture. An ever-rotating tap list keeps beer fans happy, while live bands ensure the space buzzes long after sunset, necessary in those endless summer nights. Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives highlighted the kitchen’s knack for marrying fresh Alaska seafood with classic pub comforts, making Humpy’s a warm refuge when the northern chill sets in.