A Connemara institution, Gerry Coyne’s lovely big-hearted pub dates back to 1811 and, judging by the memorabilia on display in the bar, there are plenty of artefacts here now that might be familiar to customers from that time.
It's a fascinating pub - and a place that would to hard to pass by when the door is open, as the blackboard menu and general sense of welcome is very tempting. And you'd be missing a treat as it's a true traditional pub, with cosy snugs and a welcoming open fire, as well as very friendly staff - and great food.
They're known for seasonal local food and some of the produce comes from their own garden, but of curse seafood is the star of the show. The daily blackboard menus have a wide range of fish and shellfish on offer in summer - everything from local lobster and crab, to hake, salmon and scallops - and, of course, mussels. Paddy Coynes is the centre of activities at the Connemara Mussel Festival (May bank holiday weekend annually), and big, fat local mussels are a particular favourite, with their lovely brown bread to mop up the juices...
It's also a great place for music and craic, of course, and their famous one-off events which are held throughout the year and draw customers from a wide area.
A terrific place altogether, and not to be missed.
