Nightlife

After Dark

McCarthy's Irish Bar

About McCarthy's Irish Bar

At McCarthy's Irish Bar, a trusted Bar in Lexington, KY, you will find a friendly setting that makes every visit easy to enjoy. Backed by a 4.40-star rating and 676 reviews, this location is appreciated for great service and quality and accessible facilities.

★★★★☆ 4.40 rating (676 reviews)
McCarthy's Irish Bar
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Real Reviews

Live Music

Top DJs and live acts

Craft Cocktails

Premium drink menu

VIP Service

Exclusive experiences

Events

Themed nights weekly

Your Night Awaits

Premium Bar

Craft cocktails, top-shelf spirits, and an extensive wine list crafted by expert mixologists.

Dance Floor

State-of-the-art sound system and lighting that transforms every night into magic.

VIP Lounge

Exclusive bottle service and private areas for those seeking a more intimate experience.

McCarthy's Irish Bar

Where Nights Come Alive

Whether it's a night out with friends, a celebration, or simply letting loose, we're here to make it unforgettable.

World-Class DJs
Premium Sound
Signature Cocktails
VIP Experience

What People Say

Reviews from our guests

David Hasler

David Hasler

Edited 7 years ago

Love this place. First Thursday of every month they have a band that plays Irish music (and have done so consistently for 11yrs straight!) and local graduates of Irish dance schools come by and dance. The coolest. The bar doesn't serve food but there's a spot right next door where you can order food and they'll bring it in the bar for you.

Linnie

Linnie

2 years ago

I love the cozy traditional Irish pub vibes. My partner and I stop by here when we miss pubs in Ireland. Their bartenders are always sweet and friendly and the drink prices are super reasonable. They unfortunately do not serve food.

Eli Harry

Eli Harry

a year ago

Best bar in Lexington. Haven’t been there for 13 years but who cares. Most fun I’ve had in my years before or since. Also, I returned the pitchers I snuck out before I left town in 2013. Look carefully by the door. I felt bad for sneaking them out…. But they were quite the prize at the time. I returned them intact. One we actually carried back to our hotel. Homewood suites. That was a walk. Never forget those days and McCarthy’s. Best. Bar. Ever.

D. Wilson

D. Wilson

5 months ago

My favorite pub in the ENTIRE State! And the country, for that matter. 😁 Not a restaurant, though.

Terra Mallory

Terra Mallory

8 years ago

Love love this place. It's a tradition to always come here after the shamrock shuffle. We ALWAYS have an amazing time with amazing people. The CHEERS for the Irish (or the claiming to be Irish) ;)

William Reed

William Reed

7 months ago

A must visit in Lexington. The best Guinness outside of Dublin. Mike and Nick are great bartenders.

Jamie Griffin

Jamie Griffin

9 months ago

The bartender working the night of 8/5 is an absolute rock star! He never stopped moving the entire hour and a half we were there. He was the only one working and absolutely slayed! There was a convention in town and it seemed like everyone came in at 10pm. He kept up with minimal wait times. As someone who works in the service industry, I just want to give him a shout out for being absolutely incredible!

Joey the Flavor Finder

Joey the Flavor Finder

6 months ago

McCarthy’s has been a staple spot for me and my college buddies for what feels like, ages, it still holds up! We may not stay out as late as we used to, but we still find ourselves coming back here from time to time. Whether it’s before or after a UK game, this place always hits the mark. Great pints, friendly staff, and an atmosphere that just feels like home. If you’re in the downtown area looking for a good drink and even better vibes, McCarthy’s is the spot. And yes, they can pour a proper Guinness.

Amol Poudyal

Amol Poudyal

3 months ago

McCarthy's Irish Bar is one of the best authentic Irish bars I have been to in the United States. As a true Guinness connoisseur, I've been to many Irish bars all over the United States (and around the world). McCarthy's is easily my top 5 of all time. Everyone working there is awesome. Bobby (the owner) is a legend! This place has gained a patron for life. An actual Irish pub RUN BY IRISHMEN FROM IRELAND! 5/5

Kate Farley

Kate Farley

7 months ago

We’re from Brooklyn, NY and were on our way to Houston when we decided to make a quick stop—and we’re so glad we did! McCarthy’s Irish Bar is super cool and authentic, the kind of spot that instantly makes you feel at home. Great atmosphere, friendly people, and that true Irish pub vibe you don’t come across often. Definitely worth the stop! 🍀🍻

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about McCarthy's Irish Bar

Business Features

Highlights & Amenities

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance
  • Wheelchair-accessible toilet

Service options

  • Outdoor seating
  • Takeaway
  • Dine-in
  • Delivery

Highlights

  • Fast service
  • Great beer selection
  • Great cocktails
  • Live music
  • Live performances
  • Sport

Offerings

  • Alcohol
  • Beer
  • Cocktails
  • Dancing
  • Food
  • Happy-hour drinks
  • Spirits
  • Wine

Dining options

  • Seating
  • Table service

Amenities

  • Restroom

Atmosphere

  • Casual
  • Cozy
  • Trendy

Crowd

  • Groups
  • Tourists

Planning

  • Accepts reservations

Payments

  • Credit cards
  • Debit cards

Parking

  • Free street parking

Find Us

Ready to experience the best night out? We're waiting for you.

Location

117 S Upper St, Lexington, KY 40507, United States

Hours

Open Now · Saturday 11 AM-2:30 AM
Saturday 11 AM-2:30 AM
Sunday 11 AM-2:30 AM
Monday 11 AM-2:30 AM
Tuesday 11 AM-2:30 AM
Wednesday 11 AM-2:30 AM
Thursday 11 AM-2:30 AM
Friday 11 AM-2:30 AM
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Make a Reservation

VIP tables, group bookings, and private events. Get in touch.