Madra Rua Irish Pub
1034 E Montague Ave, N Charleston, SC, 29405
Madra Rua Irish Pub Menu
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Appetizers
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Dinner
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Appetizers
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Dinner
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Address :
1034 E Montague Ave
N Charleston, SC, 29405 - Phone (843) 554-2522
- Website https://www.madraruapub.com
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :11:00 am - 2:00pm
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Brunch
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : No
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Good For Dancing : No
Alcohol : Full Bar
Happy Hour : Yes
Best Nights : Thu, Fri, Sat
Coat Check : No
Smoking : Outdoor Area/ Patio Only
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : Free
Has TV : Yes
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : Yes
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Colleen J.
I have a lot of love for Madra's. I'd say I hit it up at least a few times a month for lunch, late dinner, or just drinks. I love their food, too. Those parts I'm never really disappointed in. Since I get there pretty frequently, I'm starting to notice how bad their service really is. Now, I'm not sure if they are under staffed or the servers just hate their jobs, but they are not attentive or enthusiastic about serving at all. For the sake of argument, I will assume under staffed. There have been several occasions that we've gone in and stood at the bar for 10 minutes wondering where the bar tender had gone, or sat down in a booth and watched a waitress run back and forth for a while and not acknowledge us until we asked for drinks and menus. I love this place, but I've definitely stopped going as much because of the poor service. Sad face.
(2)Michael F.
smithwicks !! I love this place, I have never had a bad food experience and the drinks of course are always great. Our little waitress was just awesome, although I forget her name already but you almost cant miss her standing just below 5' tall.
(5)Jimmy M.
I always have a thing for Irish Pubs and this place didn't disappoint. If I lived in Charleston I would definitely see myself hanging out here on a regular basis.
(4)Michelle D.
I come here every time I am in the area. It never disappoints! The shepherds pie was wonderful. I usually get the fish and chips but I am glad I strayed to try something different. This is a place where you can take friends relax and enjoy a great meal!
(4)Scot M.
Stopped by for Friday afternoon work lunch, two of us had the jalapeno chicken over rice special...it was very good. Other person in our party had the standard Irish fish and chips, looked good. I've eaten at both Park Circle and Summerville locations and have found the staff friendly and attentive. Great beer selection, bootle or tap. About as close as you'll find to a traditional Irish pub in South Carolina.
(4)Adam S.
Madra is a decent place to hang out. I've been here a few times over the past couple weeks. The food is relatively inexpensive and good. They have a couple good beers (I was especially happy the day they got lagunitas) but I never like it when they don't tell you how much they cost. They've been anywhere from $4 to $7. I'm also sort of confused about the "super authentic Irish" thing they seem to be promoting when their stuff is like... tacos. But still I think it's a solid place.
(4)Josh A.
This was one of the first places to go into the "new" downtown area of North Chuck. Really cool little Irish pub, with a nice crowd, and lots of Guiness. I believe it's "certified" by Guiness to serve their elixer by proper Guiness standards. It's cozy and can get loud, but still pretty cool.
(4)Deb B.
A great pub to hang out in. The beer is serious there and the atmosphere is very casual. The food hasn't been much to remark on, but I usually go for the beer. Pubs were meant for drinking in. I drink in this one!
(3)Emily M.
Let's just go ahead and lead off with this place is amazing. My husband and I go every Sunday for brunch, even though we live on the other side of town. Again, their brunch is amazing. I usually go there for either lunch or drinks at least once a week in addition to our weekly brunching. The food is great and very customizable as far as additions or subtractions. Their prime rib sandwich is one of my personal favorites along with their Jalapeno Chicken over rice which is the recurring lunch special on Tuesday and Friday. The staff is amazing and very attentive to us, even when they get busy. Sierra, Wade, Matt, James, and Cameron are all fantastic and never cease to impress us with their dedication, humor, wit, and responsiveness. All in all, one of my favorite places in Charleston to go, otherwise we wouldn't spend so much time there.
(5)Sandy S.
You must go to Madra Rua for brunch on Sunday's !! Wonderful atmosphere, live Irish singer, incredible price on Mimosas and Bloody Mary's....AND the best food !! shrimp and grits, Roast beef dippin' sandwiches !! Dark and cozy like an Irish Pub should be :)
(5)Adam P.
The manager contacted me about my experience, and was very apologetic and has earned another chance. I really appreciated his quick response, and trust that I had an experience that was out of the norm. More to follow!
(5)Cindy Q.
We arrived at 5:45 on a Saturday evening. Plenty of places to sit. We tried the spinach artichoke dip for an appetizer. The dip was delicious but the tortilla chips were cheap and stale. I wish they served this dip with pita chips or bread. The tortilla chips ruined the dip. I had the fish and chips and my husband had the corned beef and cabbage. My husband loved his but he wished he had the mashed potatoes instead of fries. He also didn't get the soda bread with his meal. The fish and chips were also a good choice. We will definitely go back to try something else from the menu.
(4)Glenn V.
I personally have been to Madra Rua a number of times, as they use a POS we used to support. As with many NYC Irish pubs, Madra Rua embodies what those locations have mastered and in some cases, exceeded them. What I am referring to is, you never feel like an outsider here, the bartenders are very engaging and welcoming and in small town Charleston, there has beed at some locations the 'your not from around here' feel. Small town thinking. The beer options are well thought out and pour well, the menu is very Irish Pubish, but the quality taked it to another level, surpassing a 'typical' bar menu. Inside it is thick with old and ages dark wood from floors to stools and it is crowded and tight to walk through, yes these are good attributes. It is a great place to try for food or beverage or both, dont miss checking Madra Rua out!!
(4)Rick B.
Interesting layout. Nice atmosphere. Fish 'N Chips a great choice.
(5)Jess V.
I've always been a huge fan of this neat little Irish pub. Awesome atmosphere and friendly service. I always get the burger and its cooked perfectly. The sauce that comes with it is to die for as well! Big portions too so if you're not too hungry I'd suggest splitting a plate with someone else! Great beers on tap and they are always rotating. I went to brunch this Sunday for the first time and had the Irish Benedict. It was wonderful but too much rosemary. (I'm just not a fan of rosemary but it was delicious anyway) My boyfriend got an omelet and I wasn't too impressed but their hash browns were SO good. I'd skip the brunch but definitely go in for a burger or fish and chips!
(4)Claire P.
This watering hole is a delightful drinking haven, regardless of the time of day you choose to visit. We went here for brunch on Sunday and ended up staying for 2.5 hours, because in Madra Rua time warps and you stop paying attention to how many drinks you've ordered. I will say that the brunch food needs a little love. Ordered the Southern Eggs Benedict, and my poached eggs were both cooked all the way through, closer resembling a boiled egg rather than a delicious runny yolked poached one. Kind of a bummer. I'll definitely be back though.
(3)Janelle R.
My girlfriend and I came here for the $2 taco night. OH EM GEE! They were so good and fresh! Great atmosphere too. Kinda slow that night, excited to go back sometime.
(5)Amy Yvonne H.
Always good food! Huge portions! Great drinks! Patio outside with greenery, heating lamps, tables for groups or couples. Private booths on the inside are great for an intimate date or for a group as big as 8 people! This is the perfect place for a group because there are over 7 sectioned areas through out the restaurant that give you some privacy or seclusion to do your own thing. Id recommend it to eat when your in park circle and want some irish mojo. :)
(4)Noah H.
Awesome atmosphere and good beer.
(5)Frank S.
Great food & beer, fast good service, good prices.. Highly recommended..
(4)Nancy B.
I am astounded at the positive reviews. Ten of us went last Saturday. Every dish was awful and not only was the service terrible, the server was unbelievably rude. The Irish stew was broth with corn starch thickener or something (no meat, no veggies). My prime rib sandwich was all fat and gristle. The fries were good. The fish and chips was all batter and the batter tasted bad. I asked a question about a beer and the waiter slammed the water on the table and said he would come back. He never did. He never refilled the water, never checked on us until it was time for the money and the tip. Then he finally seemed interested. It was LOUD. Most of the music was not Irish. Obviously some people like it but I cannot understand why. Music awful, food awful, service beyond awful. Maybe the beer is good. Wouldn't know because the waiter couldn't be bothered to get our order.
(1)Randy D.
Growing up in Charleston, I would have never thought that anything would ever attract people to this part of North Chuck in the evening. However the revitalized Park Circle and surrounding areas have really transformed this otherwise forgotten part of town into a great place for dining. I have probably eaten here slightly more than ten times and have never had a bad bite of food or poor service (sorry haters). I believe that between us we have sampled over 80% of the dinner menu. Stand out items include their burger (complete with their secret sauce), the classic fish & chips and Shepherd's Pie. The cheese fry appetizer is HUGE..the wings are extra tasty and the spinach dip is better than homemade. We normally sit at one of the tables near the bar and they have these great low stools that swivel! The service has always been fine even when they are packed HOWEVER we don't drink so any review of the bar would be a guess...but no shortage of people drinking beers! It's a great experience and there are a few other great places to eat in the same area...we are going to try the new Mexican street food place next week... ***kudos to the reviewer that walked from the Amtrak station to eat here (for numerous reasons)***
(4)Sharon H.
As a followup to my review on 6/30. The manager contacted me and apologized for the food and service. She left a gift certificate to come back. I ordered the fish & Chips again and this time it was VERY good. Completely different from the first try. My husband had the wings and onion rings and again..the food was very good. Still no Bass ale (fire that distributer!!) but a had a Blacksmith instead. Perfect with the fish & chips. I really appreciate the followup by the manager. I am sure we will return many times.
(5)dan d.
I've been a few times, and I don't understand why my coworkers insist on repeatedly dragging me here. The food is mediocre and the service is worse - bordering on comatose. On two separate lunch outings my group was held up by the kitchen taking forever to figure out our orders. I've had more "do we really have to leave a tip for that?" conversations here than any place else. (Though in all honesty I usually just don't go back to those places, see the first sentence for why I keep coming back here.) Another thing that I don't like is that they cram the fact that they're an Irish Pub down your throat. There's framed Guinness posters all over and the only music they play is the Pouges and Flogging Molly. (Note: I like both of these bands, just not on perpetual replay) If you want beer, go to the Mill (next door); if you want food go to the Barbecue Joint (3 blocks away) or maybe even Sesame (1/4 mile). If you want soccer on TV pull up a stool. 2 stars because even though I can't stand the thought of going here again, their food has yet to make me physically ill.
(2)Scott V.
Stopped in this dive after learning the pizza place down the street wasn't open on Sunday nights. Extensive menu covering all the basics of an Irish Pub. Excellent choices in beer and great atmosphere, though it seemed they played the same music over and over again, but just could have been me. LOL. The other reviews about the burgers are spot-on, and yes, they are very thick and that special sauce they service it with is great. Love the interior of the place with all of the stained glass, dark wood paneling and the different 'rooms' as you make your way through the place. Will definately be back!
(4)Adrienne B.
Lots of options for seating: smoking, non-smoking, and patio. The Irish Stew is the best dish on the menu and the soda bread is delicious!
(4)frank m.
I'm gonna go ahead and say it.... Best burger in Charleston! I know Sesame is right around the corner, but as my friend would say "you don't want your burger to taste like a meatloaf". The three things you can't go wrong with @ Madra are the Burgers, Shepard's pie and Fish and chips. The bar is only a few years old, but it feels like its been there for 50 years. It's awesome.
(5)Inan A.
Defenitly a business that deserves the support..Good drinks,good happy hour,good food,soccer on tv, it s like found gem for europeans..
(5)Meredith M.
After attending a funeral at the Methodist Church up the strret the only thing left to do was stop by the Fox and toast to our friend. The staff was great as always, gave us lots of attention, and kept our glasses filled. This was the perfect bar to complete a long day. For the first time in days we all laughed alot and have memories to last a life time.
(5)Kellyn M.
Love this place with its dark pub corners so intimate... The only thing I don't like is the smoke but I'll deal with it because this place has such character. I have NEVER liked eggs benedict or anything of the sort but when I had the Eggs Florentine at Madra Rua (for brunch) over an exquisite crab cake - holy sh*t! That's all I can say. Sublime. Need I say more?
(4)Alex B.
Pretty decent food, very nice atmosphere for a pub, decent service. Prices are a little high for the location and food quality. All around decent choice, but nothing amazing.
(3)Whit R.
This place looks a LOT like the pubs do in Ireland, or at least the ones I went in when I was there a few years back. It's a nice, warm feel with dark wood, comfy booths and lots of nooks and crannies. The draft beer selection is commendable (it IS an Irish pub) and of course you can get a properly poured pint of the black stuff any time. Food wise, I like the fish and chips. Very tasty and you get plenty of it. The sunday brunch is very good, too, although they get started a bit late for me(11am). Brunch does come with cheap bloody marys and mimosas, though, so..... Worth investigating if you're in North Charleston. Hell, even if you live on James Island or somewhere not too close, come on up and see what the fuss is about. I've never had a bad experience here.
(4)Cindy B.
Great authentic Irish fare! Huge portions and great prices. And the beer selection. Is awesome! Cool place for lunch dinner and just to grab a beer!
(4)Brent R.
How have I NOT reviewed Madra Rua yet?!? A friend and I stumbled in here one night after having dinner elsewhere. We figured it'd be a good place for a drink, and we couldn't have been more right. The bar staff and wait staff were super nice, friendly and quick. They have a ton of English and Irish beers on tap. The patrons are usually locals. It's loud, kinda smokey, dark and fairly authentic. I've eaten here a few times, too. The food is great, but very filling. We order more than we can eat everytime. I'd highly recommend the Irish Stew.
(5)Jamie M.
I'm usually not a huge fan of pubs/bars since they more often than not have kind of meh food and service. But I thought I should give this place a try since it was one of my boyfriend's favorite places when he used to live in Charleston...and if it sucked, well then at least I'd have a new place to Yelp. Lucky me, not only did I get a new place to Yelp but the food and service were awesome! We got here a little after 11 on a Wednesday for lunch and it wasn't too busy yet, maybe half a dozen full tables. We snagged one of the last booths in the non-smoking section. I loved the private feel of the booths - they're all walled in except for the doorway for the waiter to enter. Our booth had a window overlooking the street and we could see the bar so we had good people watching opportunities on both sides. I ordered a burger and my boyfriend got the prime ribe of beef sandwich. My burger was huge...it was at least an inch thick! My only problem was that the basket that they brought it in was also heaped with french fries...so trying to assemble my burger was difficult and messy...but worth it! The burger and sandwich both come with their special sauce, which has kind of the consistency of cream cheese, but tastes like french onion dip. It went really well with both of our items. Service was very attentive, our food came out really quickly and they checked up on us at least three times to make sure our glasses were still full and see if we needed anything. This is definitely one of my new favorite places to eat in the Charleston area.
(5)Lungfish L.
work close by ..so im only in for lunch - food is good and the service is fast . im in and out in 20 mintues with a full belly. LOTS of food and service is fast. price is a bit high - but hell its worth it. sheps pie is great...
(4)David S.
I was compelled to write this review after a fruitless attempt to find a fish and chips as good as Madra Rua's. And in Chicago no less, home to many Irish bars. Nothing so far has come close to Madra's. The batter is thick, and I don't know if it's the guiness in the batter or if they just cook it longer, but it comes out so much darker in color (the batter) and the fish is piping hot. Seriously, the best I've had, here or in Ireland. I walked to this place from the charleston Amtrak station, after a seven hour layover in Georgia. I was starving and walked past numerous other places to find this place (based on some other yelp reviews), and I am si glad I did. Other pros: nice waitstaff, quaint little booths, smoking permitted.
(5)nichole m.
Just had brunch there, LOVE the biscuits and Gravy and $3.00 Bloody Mary's. If you like a good pub and good hearty food than this is the place for you.
(4)Adam H.
This place feels like a real old Irish bar. The setting is amazing! Food and drink is wonderful. I could really go for the shepard's pie and a black and tan right about now! Nice place for lunch as well, especially if your working down in the North Charleston harbor area.
(5)Rebecca M.
Food is always good and they keep the drinks coming. Service is always great and the atmosphere is fun and yet can be secluded if you want it to be.
(4)Debbie C.
OK, few minutes to kill $6.50 for one glass of draft. Am I out of touch???? Smoke from that side of bar wafes over to non smoking side
(1)Meg C.
I loved this place! I loved how dark & cozy it was on the inside. I didn't eat here (we ate at Sesame earlier in the night) but we did have drinks here. The bartenders & waitstaff were very nice. I would definitely be a regular here if I lived in N. Charleston. Decent draft beer selection. It makes the "Irish" bar in my town look kinda dumpy.
(4)Neil E.
Excellent Rueben sandwich for lunch. Lean meat and I could replace the fries for a generous size garden salad. Service was fast for lunch and waiter was helpful. Colleagues had fish and chips and they liked it. I will return to try other menu items. And oh yeah, my mother would enjoy the variety of Irish music.
(5)Dorn M.
Best Irish pub in Charleston. Excellent burgers, fish & chips is good and the Irish stew is worth the name. Excellent atmosphere and smoking/non-smoking sides. Easy feeling and a great place to catch a soccer match. It can be busy and slow for lunch but it's worth the wait. North Charleston's old village is filling up with excellent places to eat and enjoy.
(5)Derek T.
I have been to Madra a couple of times, but honestly me and my friends always end up going to the Mill after 30 minutes. I work nights so I usually don't make it to Madra before 11pm. When I get there and it is not busy fine. But going there on a Friday or Saturday is not worth it. First of all, the service is extremely slow. We have had a waitress there before, but I almost always end up going to the bar to get my drinks b/c we can never find her. Then the place is packed and you have 2 bartenders to handle it, so it takes quite awhile to get your drinks. This never happens at the Mill. The last bad thing about Madra Rua is they need better ventilation. I am a non smoker and to go in there and try to breathe with everyone around you lighting up makes me feel like a coal miner. The smoke just hangs in a cloud. I might as well light up too knowing the amount of second hand smoke I am breathing in equals a pack of cigarettes. On the plus side, the outside deck is nice when the weather is good.
(3)Marty H.
Jalapeño Chicken was OUTSTANDING!
(5)Andrew B.
Very authentic pub two bars TVs are small buts it's small space many beers on tap iris stew and soda bread. great place to watch football (soccer) pleasant bar staff. small and dark as a bar should be
(4)Andrea M.
I got the small size of both the shepherds pie and the fishermans pie. Definitely preferred the fishermans! It was really creamy and the potatoes and shrimp were really tasty. My boyfriend had the corned beef entree, which was a little plain. This was our first time here. We enjoyed the private front corner booth! Our server was very nice.
(3)Rick T.
Great pub and very atmospheric. Solid pub food menu and good quality. Especially if you like traditional irish/british food
(4)Greg S.
The family went to Madra Rua's for Mothers Day brunch and it was an excellent experience. We sat out on the back patio and got to watch the soccer match on an outdoor flat screen tv. The bar was packed with soccer fans wearing their colors. The food came out perfectly cooked. Shrimp and grits here is always a winner. The other dishes were the crabcakes benedict and steak and eggs benedict. Everyone in our party was very happy with their entrees. The alcohol list has some house specialties like the snakebite. Its a half light, half dark beer mix. This is a staple of our trips to Charleston. If you like pubs, soccer, and a good atmosphere, I would definitely recommend.
(5)Marian H.
Love this place! Cozy inside... u can sit at the bar, in a booth, or outside. Free wifi and good food, tvs, irish music. Food is great and staff is excellent... i'm always impressed when someone recognizes me & remembers what i drink or usually eat when I walk in and I come here about once a month. They have breakfast brunch on Sundays until 2 pm with bloody mary specials. The Hangover burger which I hear is excellent is usually on special on the weekends. I love their chicken cesear salads and their wings are always cooked just right. My favorite appetizer, spinach dip and chips, is about the best in town here, as well as the homemade chips with shepherds pie dip poured on top. Just a short distance from Park Circle where I've discovered a new sport.. a disc golf course around the circle! It's also a special place for me -n- my honey as we went here on our first date and still enjoy coming here at least once a month 3 1/2 years later!
(5)E. B.
Took my dad and two young daughters here for a late lunch. The service was great and the food was amazing! Seriously one of the best burgers I have had! Will be back!
(5)Saba S.
Came here for the USA vs Costa Rica game on a Tuesday night. The place is definitely not a sports bar, but it does well enough. I heard the Sheppards Pie is fantastic, but carbs and I don't get along so I went with the Chicken Ceasar which was delicious. Large portion, not too saucy and the chicken was cooked blackened and right. There is definitely a bunch of bar food here and looked to be about 10 beers on tap and more in the bottles. They had the allstar game on one side of the bar and soccer on the other. The design on this place needs a lot of work...would do a lot better if it were an open design. Will come back if the opportunity presents itself.
(4)Red B.
Friend and I stopped in for lunch. His idea not mine since I like more of a light open space rather than dark and closed in feeling. Spent many an hour in McSorleys and didnt get that feeling. To its credit the place is spotless clean and inviting once inside. Both had the fish and chips and it was spot on. When we got our checks I notice my friend almost fall off his seat. I look over and notice his pint of some Holy City something or other was I believe $8.00. I just looked at their menu on line and it looked exactly like the one I saw yesterday. I couldnt find beer prices. To make matters worse, a must stop over at EVO bakery for a take home loaf or two had the same beer on the chaulkboard for $5.50
(3)Elizabeth F.
Delicious and fast. One of my favorite places to go on my lunch break. Everything I've every gotten has been outstanding.
(5)Michaela K.
I miss you, Madra Rua! Things I miss the most: Dark seating areas, friendly casual staff, everyone knows each other, default place when we couldn't decide where to eat, patio area, fisherman's pie, silly Irish music, the interior, the location, the gigantic burger whenever I was craving BEEF, beer - in general, daily specials that were always awesome, lobster bisque, the wooden floors, the people...
(5)Katie B.
Fun atmosphere, good food, decent prices, and friendly staff! It's a good place to have a meal or just grab a drink. I have tried he fish and chips, which are great, and I have had the grilled chicken salad, which was tasty as well.
(4)Leonard T.
Giving it five stars, but I I have a disclaimer: I was only here for 30 minutes. I was visiting Charleston and my friend and I were looking to have a drink and he recommended this place. I've never been to Ireland, but it did feel like an Irish pub. They were playing Irish music and the place was all decked out in wood finishings. They had a good selection of beers on draft, but the real star was the cup of lobster bisque! Pretty perfect cup if I must say and if the rest of the menu is as good, it's definitely worth stopping in if you're in the area.
(5)Sheila C.
Had a very disappointing lunch there. First, the Guinness wasn't pulled properly - at an Irish pub!! And the shepherd's pie was tasteless mashed potatoes over ground beef soup. Made me really, really sad.
(2)Kasey B.
Love the food here but went in Friday night and sat ignored for ten minutes and left. First time I was ever disappointed at Madra Rua.
(2)John J.
Walked in and immediately knew just by the wood smell and music that this was going to be good. Our waiter suggested the "French dip" (don't remember the menu name). OMG! This was the best "French dip" sandwich I have ever eaten and due to traveling a lot, I've eaten my share of them! VERY friendly and attentive wait staff. Wish I was working here longer so I could go back and try other menu choices! Do yourself a favor and go!!!
(5)Fatty W.
Great place with great food, my wife had the fish sandwich, I had the shepherd's pie. Both were outstanding. The sauce that was served with the fish sandwich was absolutely delicious. Service was good and enjoyed the atmosphere.
(4)Luan T.
We came in on a Sunday morning @ 11 am after church with the whole family. Apparently it was considered brunch time. Although my entire family was pleased with it. I always ready for a meaty lunch especially from an Irish Pub. Needless to say they insist you eat what is on the brunch menu(how hard is it to make a burger since we are cooking steaks already) which runs all the way through 3 pm! I had steak(you can cook a steak but not a burger, really?!) and eggs instead. Decent but nothing too brag about. Menu price was decent. Again, nothing to brag about in the portion and considered brunch time is idiotic - 3 stars. No, I am never a fan of breakfast. Doubt I would ever come back.
(3)Lauton S.
Very cool atmosphere, little private booths tucked into corners with dark, rich woods and stained glass. They also have tvs around the bar for the sports-centric patron. We went just to eat and I was impressed. They ahve a lot of traditional irish fare and some americanised food as well. I had fish and chips which was great except I forgot to ask for malt vinegar, which they surely have. A friend ordered the shepards pie and it looked life changing. As one might expect the beer and spirit selection is good and I will not complain today about prices.
(5)Trey H.
Have eaten at Madra Rua for several years when visiting the paper mill located just down the road. Without a doubt Madra Rua is the most authentic Irish pub in the South and has some of the best food in North Charleston. The atmosphere is genuine and the people are always friendly. The Reuben when they have it is spectacular and the Shepard's pie is the best this side of Shannon. You just can't go wrong having lunch or dinner at Madra Rua.
(5)Dan H.
Great Sheppard pie, really nice atmosphere, will defiantly will try it again
(4)Pamela R.
Great atmosphere,good food ,good service. The shepherd's pie and fish & chips were very good. Will try it again. Great beer selection.
(4)Lee K.
We stayed away from this place for the past few years because Yelp stated they were not kid friendly and when we are out without the littles we usually go fine dining. WELL, I'm a bit pissed off because we've been missing out. Not only are they kid friendly (as evident by their KIDS menu) but the food/beer menu is great! We've been twice in the past two weeks (once for lunch and another time for Sunday brunch) and each time the staff were ridiculously friendly. Overall great food for families and singles alike.
(5)Sue P.
This place was recommended to us by a Starbucks' barista, while we were visiting Charleston. Very cool vibe, Irish Pub. We had chicken wings and they were good.
(3)David G.
Yum.... Just had lunch here for the first time and seriously thinking about going out and sitting in my car until dinner! I had one of the Dailey specials which was a queso burger. The venue is just what you would expect right down to the Irish music. The staff was very friendly and very attentive.
(5)Brandon H.
See the prior review. This place is amazing and my new favorite now that I live in this area. Late hours are just another added bonus.
(5)Jung K.
Been here multiple times and usually descent service and pretty good food, but today I had brunch for the first time and it was disgusting in both aspects of food and service. We arrived around 11:30 at the bar with a group of friends and the food took a good 1 full hour to arrive. The food arrived around 12:45. Once they arrived, the food server had his hand in one of the bowls, so it was returned, one of the orders never arrived, and the "8oz" steak and eggs was basically split between two orders. One was asked for medium rare, the other medium well. Both were cooked till grey inside. The returned order was cancelled, the order that never arrived took another 10 minutes, and when asked about the correct portion of the meal, the bartender just said he'll look into it and never addressed it. Usually this is a good place, and unfortunate I have to write a bad review. The bartender today never addressed my concerned with my meal, never acknowledged that the kitchen was running or maybe there was a shortage with food. Awful.
(1)Michael H.
Well bar staff for today was good but +45 min ticket time was not so good for brunch. As I had to rejected my food cause the guy who brought us food did not know who's was who's hands all up in it which was a no go. Bar staff I know it was not your fault but communication would have been nice that our orders was messed up, thanks for what you did do
(2)Harold W.
One of the best places in town for Irish food. This day was a St Pattys Day breakfast needing brunch morning especially since they closed Park Circle last night for the block party. The whole place is now non-smoking since 12/12/12. How cute was that? Of course there's always a soccer game playing and most seats have a good view of a game. Drinks are awesome. I don't drink Guinness but I will from this place. I don't know but it always seems a lot fresher or may be it's because I add Angry Orchard to make it a Snake Bite. The food is usually good. Now we ordered the Ham & Cheese Omelette and 2 Eggs breakfast. I usually love, love, love breakfast food but I just wasn't feeling this meal. I'll stick to their Shepherd's Pie and Irish Stew which is really filling. I can never eat the whole thing.
(5)Danielle B.
Some of the best corned beef and cabbage I've ever had. I say that after growing up eating corned beef and cabbage made by our Irish family friends who got their recipe from their great great great (great great etc.) grandmother...or something. You get the picture. I also highly suggest their Shepherd's Pie. I have developed a distinct craving for it that I satisfy once every two weeks or so. I always get their "Snake Bite", which is a layered drink composed of Guinness and Magner's Cider. Pretty to look at, even better to drink. I must also compliment the awesome choice of Irish music - definitely heard some Flogging Molly the other night! It is a very dim-lit pub, so don't be alarmed by that fact when you go inside. We've always had great service every time we go. Loyal customers from here on out.
(5)Kylaine K.
I absolutely love this place. We first tried it out earlier this year and after tasting the corned beef and cabbage I was hooked! I can also recommend the hand breaded chicken tenders and french fries- positively delicious. They also have a good selection of drinks (but I mean, duh, it is a pub!) and outdoor seating for smokers or people who bring along their pups. Highly recommended!
(5)Carmela O.
My singular complaint with Madra Rua is that I wish they had more vegetarian offerings. My second singular complaint (which I guess makes it a dual complaint?) is that service can be slow. Other than that, I LOVE this place! It's such a fun place to go with friends to grab a pint, watch a rugby or soccer match, or even grab brunch on the weekends! An Irish bar doesn't seem like it should be good for kids or brunch, but it really is! It has outdoor seating, little private booth things, and even though it's a sports bar, it's not overwhelmingly full of TVs so you can still have atmosphere. It's my favorite neighborhood bar in Park Circle :)
(4)Lindsey T.
Love the atmosphere great food! Love the chicken and French fries!! Small menu so it's hard to visit all the time. If they expanded there menu that would be amazing
(5)Dave C.
I have been a frequent customer of Madra Rua for more than four years. As a bar, this place is generally pretty good. Don't get me wrong, as far as old-style irish pub ambiance goes Madra Rua is top notch. They have a good selection of beers from across the pond and the woodwork/dark atmosphere really gives it the feel that you want in a pub. The pub fare they offer is also generally good. I really enjoy the fish and chips and the open faced roast beef sandwich with mashed potatoes all smothered in mushroom gravy (nap alert). Service at lunch is usually fast and courteous. Why three stars then? Why not four or five? It seems like he enjoys everything about the place! - Well let me tell you; my reason for the three star review is the staff in the evenings. I am not sure what happens after 5-6pm at Madras but holy crap they take a nose-dive. Everyone working becomes slow, forgetful, and generally disinterested in serving any customers with enthusiasm or courtesy. This includes bartenders as well as servers. Often times, you have to approach them or get their attention to get anything done, which is not the way the process is supposed to work. I have no idea if this is a staff problem or a management problem, but as several others have pointed out; this is becoming the norm at Madra. I am tempted to make this a two star review, BUT, just like I can't stop going to this bar no matter how badly they piss me off; I am giving them a three because I can still see the potential for them to be a truly great pub. PLEASE, Madra Rua, get your act together. We are begging you.
(3)Bill S.
Went in to watch the Giants beat the Nationals on a quiet Tuesday night. The music selection is decent and not too loud that you have to shout to be heard. The bartender, Josh is competent and friendly, easy to talk to. Good beer selection, I had the Lagunitas IPA which is not on tap many places. The food we had was well done. One appetizer, jalapeños stuffed with cream cheese and wrapped in bacon was amazing. The Black and Tan onion rings and the Irish Stew nachos were also above average for bar food. A good vibe, nice looking bar and friendly people. And clean toilets. What more do you need?
(4)Meghan C.
I really, really liked this place. Their lunch menu is a little limited - you can't get appetizers until after 2:00 p.m. I think? Or maybe 4:00 p.m.? But that is A-OKAY with me because this was one of the best burgers I have had down here. The fries were off the chain, as well. Holy pint prices, though! $7 a pint...good grief. I'll deal, though, for that burger again. *Manager contacted me and it just happens that JR and I happened to be drinking the only two beers that were $7/pint...the rest are $5.50.
(4)Jordan D.
Madra is a great local hangout and a pretty authentic Irish pub. The food is decent and they have Guinness and other typical Irish beer and drinks. Their brunch is legit and cheap. There is also daily lunch specials. If you're looking for a chill spot with a good atmosphere to grab a few drinks than this is the place. They are somewhat of a neighborhood institution.
(3)TJ L.
Excellent local Irish pub. Good pub food and better drinks. The antique Irish decor and atmosphere is some of the best in the area. This is a place I would go for happy hour and appetizers...not a place that I would target for dinner. The food is not bad at all-just not at the 4-5 star range if that is what you are looking for. Definitely a great pub and great place to hang out! And they have a less-busy location (with more of a "southern look") in Sville.
(3)Brian B.
This is one of the best restaurants in the area, I've never had anything there I didn't like. On the weekends they have a special with a massive ribeye steak served over gorgonzola macaroni which is probably one of the best meals I've ever had.
(5)quinn a.
I am not from Charleston but have spent time at Madrua Rua or "Red Fox" with a friend who sometimes watches The Liverpool Soccer Club at this location. The staff is friendly and helpful even for rowdy folks grabbing drinks early in the morning. Ample street parking and an immersive decor, great choice for an authentic feeling Irish Pub Experience in the low country. Cant wait to get back.
(4)Selphyne B.
This place almost killed me, literally. I am highly allergic to peanuts and did not see a tiny warning on their menu that everything is fried in peanut oil. I did mention my allergy when asking the waiter if their Thai salad dressing had peanuts and she did not say anything when I proceeded to order their fish and chips. I will say, it was just about worth it as they were DELICIOUS!! Probably some of the best I've ever had!!! My husband had the fishermans pie and he was swooning as well until I started swelling and choking in the car! I loved the dusky ambiance, it felt very authentic to an Irish pub!
(5)Dillon G.
I'm a huge fan of any place with good beer and great food, but Madra Rua really brings it up a notch with authenticity. It's a small bar/restaurant and seating may be a little tight for a large group, but it's a great place to stop in for a drink or have a reasonably romantic dinner with a loved one. If you're on the fence, pick up the prime rib sandwich -- awesome!
(4)Tom G.
Had a working lunch at Madra Rua today - so a short time and no beer! I've been here before for a beer after work with folks. Like the place - fairly typical Irish Bar with a good beer selection. Service has always been good and today was no exception. Menu isn't huge but enough variety, so something for everyone. Prices are nice. There a number of tables in little alcoves and spots with walls around them, so many are pretty private; in case you don't want to be seen with someone or they don't want to be seen with you! Good go-to spot for lunch or after work beverages.
(4)Paul F.
Liked it. Just like a pub back home in England. Not very Irish desserts though !!
(4)Brad C.
Great atmosphere and service! After touring Ireland last summer, this place reminded me of an authentic pub, with sectioned off tables and great pictures on the wall. The beer selection was outstanding! Tennents and Boddingtons on tap instead of in cans at other Irish Pubs. Also, our waitress, Ashley, was incredibly friendly, always smiling, perky, and genuinely wanted to help and serve us. The only qualm was the Sheppard's pie was more of a chilli with mashed potatoes on top. While different than What I'm used to, it was still pretty good. I would definitely come back here, especially since they had a Carlsburg countdown to the world cup! Again this place is separated from the norm with many unique attributes not found anywhere else.
(4)Shannon S.
I haven't been here in a while, and thought I'd eat lunch since their food had been so delicious before. Instead of ordering my usual Guinness, I got the Murphys Stout. Wow...high alcohol content and more predominant hop taste. Not bad, but I like my Guinness. To eat, I got the Corned Beef and Cabbage with fries. Both excellent and taste homemade. The cabbage had cracked pepper, and although it was not too much, it still burned my throat. Made me drink more Murphys. The Corned Beef could not have been more perfect! Tender and flavorful. There was a container of what looked like mustard on the plate, so I dipped the beef into it. Stand Back! It has horseradish mixed in! Use it like wasabi...a little goes a long way. Perfect Corned Beef made better. I connected to the free wifi, but for some reason, the internet was out. hope they fix that. As usual, there was Soccer on the t.v. UPDATE: When this review was written, the service was slow, but I didn't mention it at the time. Now, I gotta say something. There is a "bartender", female, with short, mousy brown hair and always pulled back in a short ponytail, who has the attitude that she will serve you when she is ready and not before. She rarely checks back, and it takes forever to get the check. It is service like this that makes a cool, authentic Irish bar into nothing more than a dump. Tonight, me and my girlfriend came in ready to order because we were starving. She got our drinks, but neglected to ask of we needed menus, so I asked. Then someone wanted to watch a game on tv, so the "bartender" begins to fiddle with that for the next 15 minute, all the while ignoring us, and everyone else. Then she walks off. I close the menus. 5 minutes later she shows up and asks if we're ready to order. I said, "We're not going to eat here." "Okay." And she walks off again. By this time I am fuming, and trying to down my Guinness so I can get out. I had to go to the other side of the bar to pay where she planted herself . And this is what gets me...Instead of handing me my changes, she walks to the other side where I was now not, and puts the money there. I HAD TO WALK ALL THE WAY AROUND THE BAR TO GET MY MONEY. She did this intentionally. As I came around , she said "I put your change there." Trying not to cause a scene, I said "I see that". I got my money, and left without tipping. I will not patronize Madra Rua anymore if service is going to continue to be this shitty. I will not be back. Others will not be back. She needs to go back to the shitty little strip mall bar where she obviously got her training, because she is no professional. Goodbye Mardra Rua, it was nice when you had professionals working there. I guess nothing lasts.
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