Irish Eyes Restaurant & Pub features traditional Irish fare, local favorites, and more at its two locations in Lewes and Milton, Delaware! Stop in for a delicious, reasonably priced meal, or enjoy happy hour with some of the best deals around. We sat down with Maryellen Kiernan of Irish Eyes to learn more about this beloved local business. Keep reading to learn more!
Tell us a bit about Irish Eyes.
Jim Kiernan, the original owner, learned of a restaurant for sale on Wilmington Avenue and thought it would be the perfect place for an Irish pub. Irish Eyes opened in Rehoboth Beach in May 1986. The Lewes location opened in May 1996, and the Milton location opened in April 2006. With four daughters, Jim knew it could be expensive to take a family out to dinner. Irish Eyes was one of the first year-round restaurants to offer specials such as burger night during the off season. Community involvement is an important part of Irish Eyes' history. Organizations such as the American Red Cross, Rehoboth Beach Boys & Girls Club, Beebe Healthcare, the Rehoboth, Lewes, and Milton fire departments, and many others have benefited from our various fundraising efforts. Jim's family and their partners, Tom and Charlene Jones, continue that mission today.
What sorts of foods and services do you offer your customers, and what makes Irish Eyes unique?
Irish Eyes offers a unique menu that includes pub fare, seafood, and Irish favorites such as corned beef & cabbage, fish & chips, a great reuben sandwich, and beef & Guinness stew. We offer waterfront dining and breathtaking sunset views.
Will you be offering any specials or events on St. Patrick's Day?
St. Patrick's Day is our favorite day of the year! This year we will be celebrating with live music from some long time-favorites and will offer great food and drink specials.
What has been your experience operating a business in Southern Delaware? Is there anything in particular that makes our area special?
In 36 years of operation in Southern Delaware, one thing we love most is the people. Some of our customers are born and raised here, and some have only been here a few years. It makes no difference—when you walk in the door, you become family. We get to celebrate all the "big moments" in people's lives. Whether it's a small birthday party in the bar or a wedding reception in our upstairs banquet room, we can accommodate the event.
What would you tell someone who is considering relocating to Coastal Delaware?
If someone is thinking about moving here, I would tell them to come on down! This is a great place to be all year round. The beaches are clean and beautiful, and Southern Delaware boasts an endless list of restaurants that are beyond reproach. It is also a great place to raise a family.
To learn more about Irish Eyes, CLICK HERE or call 302-645-6888 (Lewes) or 302-684-8889 (Milton)!
