Blarney Stone Pub - Bismarck

Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the Emerald Isle without leaving North Dakota at Blarney Stone Pub. This authentic establishment, located in the historic center of Bismarck, was the first of its kind in this region of the USA. The pub occupies two restored buildings from 1905, giving it significant architectural character and a cozy feel, emphasized by exposed brickwork and heavy wood finishes.

Inside, guests will find genuine Irish flair, from decor brought straight from Europe to the warm glow of the fireplace. The place is famous not only for its atmosphere but also for its impressive selection of drinks—featuring 26 beers on tap, a city record. It is rightfully considered the best Irish bar in the state, harmoniously serving as both a cozy restaurant and a lively evening social hub.

The pub's kitchen deserves special mention, offering dishes made "from scratch." The menu is a successful mix of Irish traditions and American favorites: you can try classic shepherd's pie as well as original burgers topped with Guinness-braised short ribs. This spot is ideal for those seeking quality service and a soulful environment.

If you would like to book a table or check menu details, you can use the official contact information below. Blarney Stone Pub is always happy to welcome guests and provides all the necessary information for planning your visit.

A visit here is a true gastronomic ritual. First and foremost, pay attention to the traditional Irish menu. Be sure to try the signature shepherd's pie, a hearty Irish stew, or classic bangers and mash. For those looking for unique flavors, the Dublin Dip or the famous burger with stout-braised beef short ribs are excellent choices.

Beverage connoisseurs will find a real paradise here: the huge selection of 26 taps allows you to sample both world-famous hits and local craft brews. The bar menu also features an impressive range of Irish whiskeys and signature cocktails, such as the Peach Cobbler Martini. If your visit falls on a weekend, don't miss the brunch featuring their signature Bloody Marys and traditional sides.

In addition to food and drinks, you can simply enjoy the moment at the pub: listen to live Irish music, warm up by the fireplace on a cool evening, or relax on the outdoor terrace during the warmer months. On weekdays, the pub hosts popular Happy Hours, where you can try the best menu items at a great price, making it the perfect place to end the workday or meet up with friends.

Located in the heart of the city's historic district, Blarney Stone Pub is situated at 408 E Main Ave. Thanks to its central location, it is easily accessible on foot from major government buildings and main shopping streets. A walk from the State Capitol makes for a pleasant addition to a city tour.

For those who prefer to drive, city parking is available in the surrounding area. If you are arriving from Bismarck Airport (BIS), a taxi or rideshare service will take only about 15 minutes. This makes the pub an excellent first stop to sample local hospitality immediately after your flight.

Public transport is also a convenient option, with bus routes through Downtown Bismarck stopping in the immediate vicinity of the establishment. During the summer, Main Avenue becomes a lively area where a stroll to the pub is a great way to experience the city's architecture.

The building that houses Blarney Stone Pub today has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. It consists of two structures built in 1905, which originally served as a men's clothing store and a tailor shop. For decades, these walls served the needs of local residents, and from 1977 to 2005, it was home to the popular Golden Dragon restaurant.

The modern chapter of the building's life began in October 2009, when entrepreneurs Jim Poolman, Dustin Hollevoet, and Chad Wachter opened the region's first authentic Irish pub here. Over $260,000 was invested in restoring its historical appearance through the Renaissance Zone renovation program, returning the facades and interiors to their original glory and highlighting the antique charm of the exposed brickwork.

Many decor elements were imported directly from Ireland to create the most authentic atmosphere possible. The success of the first Bismarck location led to the expansion of the brand, with branches opening in other cities like Fargo and Sioux Falls. Today, the establishment is officially recognized as one of the best Irish bars in the state, maintaining traditions of hospitality and quality.

To fully experience the atmosphere and enjoy the cuisine, a typical visit takes about 1.5–2 hours. This is usually enough time for a leisurely lunch or dinner, allowing you to take in the details of the unique interior and listen to Irish music.

If you plan to spend the evening with friends, sampling various craft beers or whiskeys from the extensive drink list, you should budget 3 hours or more. The special atmosphere by the fireplace or on the summer terrace encourages long conversations and complete relaxation after a busy day.

The establishment hospitably opens its doors daily, offering everything from early weekend brunches to late dinners. The pub's schedule allows you to plan your visit at any convenient time:

From Monday to Friday, the pub is open from 11:00 AM to 1:00 AM. On Saturday and Sunday, the doors open a bit earlier at 10:00 AM, and the establishment continues to welcome guests until 1:00 AM. Keep in mind the Happy Hour times: weekdays from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, and every night from 9:00 PM until closing.

After a hearty Irish meal, it is worth taking some time to explore the surrounding area. The pub's downtown location allows you to easily combine dining with a visit to historical and cultural landmarks located just steps away.