McGettigan?s for Irish pub grub

Dubai; There are times when nothing beats a good pub lunch, especially now with the cooler clime. So when a British chef suggested an Irish pub lunch, I jumped at the chance. McGettigan’s is located at the Bonnington hotel in Jumeirah Lake Towers. Yeah finally an Irish pub this side of town! From the moment you enter, you realise you’ve discovered a hidden gem. Kitted out in true traditional pub design; all mahogany and leather, complete with original books (no doubt belonging to the Irish owners) lining one wall. All that was missing was the roaring log fire.

The menu is pretty comprehensive including the world-famous full Irish breakfast, and a ‘girlie’ version for those with smaller appetites! I opted for the bangers & mash, which for obvious reasons you don’t often see on Dubai menus; two succulently over-stuffed pork sausages on a bed of mashed potato with a sprinkling of crispy fried onions. The sausages go down as some of the most flavoursome I have ever tasted here – mind you, my fellow chef diner claimed his home-made sausages are tastier. As I’ve not tried them, I rest my case. A simple dish perfectly executed.

His house beef burger was sandwiched with lettuce, onion, tomato, pork bacon, tomato relish, cheese, and served with fries and coleslaw. Such a huge burger roll, that even a strapping big man had to use his knife and fork. He quickly polished it all though.

FooDiva’s only bone of contention was the tad slow and erratic service, and for no reason given there weren’t that many punters. If good grub isn’t enough, McGettigan’s puts on a regular calendar of Irish entertainment, plus live coverage of all major sporting events. It’s probably one of Dubai’s best kept secrets, but not for long, so get there quick. Irish Village had better watch out!

Lunch for two including a pint of Guinness and a small bottle of local water; AED 160. McGettigan’s is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Tel; +971 (0) 4 3560000.

A bientôt.

FooDiva. x