If you find yourself in Atlantic Beach, Florida, just 15 miles outside of Jacksonville, make sure to visit Culhane’s Irish Pub. This episode of Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives features Guy Fieri exploring this cozy joint run by four sisters who have brought a taste of Ireland to the sunny coast of Florida. Guy dives into their hearty menu, featuring dishes like Guinness Beef Stew and other Irish comfort foods that will transport you straight to the Emerald Isle.

The Setting

Guy Fieri introduces Culhane’s Irish Pub as a dream come true for sisters Mary Jane, Michelle, Linda, and Áine Culhane. Nestled in a strip mall, this Irish pub has become a local favorite for its authentic Irish dishes. The sisters, along with head chef Olive Davis, serve up family recipes passed down through generations, making this pub a nostalgic spot for anyone craving genuine Irish fare.

The Dishes

1. Guinness Beef Stew

• Recipe Summary: The journey to this rich, flavorful stew begins with a special house seasoning blend, a mixture of white pepper, black pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, garam masala, curry powder, clove, nutmeg, kosher salt, onion powder, garlic powder, granulated garlic, dried mustard, sugar, and Montreal steak seasoning. The beef is marinated overnight in Guinness beer along with this seasoning and fresh thyme. The next day, the beef is cooked for three to four hours until tender. What takes it over the top is the homemade demi-glaze, made from veal bones, red wine, carrots, onions, leeks, celery, a bouquet garni, and tomato paste, simmered for 6 to 8 hours.
• Guy’s Reaction: Guy is immediately impressed. “This is rich, flavorful, full of depth, it’s outstanding,” he says. He goes on to highlight the tender meat, saying, “The meat completely just dissolves in your mouth.”

2. Dingle Fish Pie

• Recipe Summary: Named after a fishing village in Ireland, the Dingle Fish Pie is loaded with salmon, cod, and shrimp. The seafood is combined with a creamy sauce and baked with a golden crust.
• Guy’s Reaction: Guy digs into the dish with enthusiasm, exclaiming, “If you dig all the way to the bottom of it, you’ll find a membership card to a local gym,” showcasing the dish’s hearty nature.

3. Lamb Sliders

• Recipe Summary: These sliders feature fresh ground lamb mixed with minced red onion, whole grain mustard, minced garlic, fresh oregano, and the house seasoning blend. The lamb is formed into patties, cooked on a hot flat top, and served with curry aioli, lettuce, tomato, and red onion, all nestled in a soft bun.
• Guy’s Reaction: Guy is blown away by the sliders. “Are you kidding me? I could eat a hundred of those,” he declares. He especially appreciates the perfect balance of flavors, calling it “hands down perfect.”

The Experience

Culhane’s Irish Pub is more than just a place to eat; it’s a hub of hospitality and authentic cooking. The Culhane sisters have created a space that feels like home, serving dishes that are both comforting and delicious. Patrons rave about the genuine flavors and the welcoming atmosphere, making it a standout in the local dining scene.