3 Best Bars in The Northwest, Ireland

Part of the social fabric of Sligo since 1868, Hargadons Bar preserves its unique historic character and maintains high standards in a much-loved institution. Wood paneling, cozy snugs (small booths) for private powwows, marble-top counters, and little glass doors on hinges make this place especially conducive to that intangible Irish element, the craic. Check out the walls, covered with historical black-and-white photos as well as fading invoices from the bar's early days. Hearty food at great prices is served at lunchtime (12:30–3:30 pm) and the evening dinner menu (4–9 pm), featuring oysters, mussels, salmon, steak sandwiches, or chicken wings, lists local suppliers. The bar specializes in Irish craft beers with Andersons from Sligo and the White Hag from Ballymote among a wide selection. On Friday night, Irish traditional musicians often hold center stage, followed by a bluegrass group. On Saturday night you may hear country-rock, pop, or folk music. Walk through the bar and in separate premises at the back you will find the well-stocked Hargadons Wine Shop in Johnston Court.

With its glowing fire, Nancy's, now in its eighth generation of the same family, makes you wonder if you've wandered into the owner's sitting room. The walls are filled with framed black-and-white photographs of the family and of old Ardara. Seafood, in the form of chowder, oysters, prawns, and mussels, dominates the menu served noon to 9 year-round. Ask for the house special, the Louis Armstrong sandwich, which consists of "jazzed-up" smoked salmon with grilled cheese on wheat bread. To accompany your food, try the old-fashioned, naturally fermented farmyard cider—a big hit with summer visitors. There's also live music on Friday and Saturday nights during the summer months.

One of the largest and most popular pubs in Ballyshannon, Seán Óg's, has a DJ playing hits on Saturday evenings. On occasion, Irish traditional musicians come out to perform at this local pub.