By Trent Modglin

110 Main Street in Park Ridge
847-720-4466
TheHarpandFiddle.com 

The scene: Ownership likes to say they have themselves a “modern pub with an Irish flair,” and that’s a pretty accurate assessment. It’s a relaxed, family friendly restaurant that plays host to a wide range of clientele. Live music — ranging from acoustic guitarists to Irish jam sessions — four nights a week (as well as Sunday mornings for brunch) adds a nice touch. Ample private party and event space is available as well, and the spacious beer garden in the back is a perfect summer-evening destination.

Seafood, whether it’s the Atlantic cod for the beer-battered fish and chips or the balsamic-glazed salmon, arrives fresh six days a week, and the hearty burgers, Guinness stew and shepherd’s pie are all made with certified Black Angus beef

Food and drink: Forget what you know about normal Irish pub food. Seriously, forget it entirely. Instead, The Harp & Fiddle offers a wide-ranging, chef-inspired menu that is equal parts classic favorites and inventive creations.

Appetizers like the wings, charcuterie and artisanal cheese board, boom boom shrimp or spinach artichoke dip with perfectly crispy pita chips will get you started off right.

Seafood, whether it’s the Atlantic cod for the beer-battered fish and chips or the balsamic-glazed salmon, arrives fresh six days a week, and the hearty burgers, Guinness stew and shepherd’s pie are all made with certified Black Angus beef.

And let us not forget the variety of intriguing salads, brunch items (berry and whipped cream-topped pancakes or crab cake benedict, anyone?) and mango BBQ ribs, which happen to be smoked in-house for six hours.

As for drinks, a stellar craft beer list — full of hazy IPAs, stouts and lagers — tends to surprise first-time visitors. And you’d be hard-pressed to find a better whiskey and bourbon selection anywhere in the area. Complex wines, loaded Bloody Mary or an Irish coffee? Yep, those too.

We’ll be back because: Quite simply, they just do everything well here. The staff treats you like family, and there’s just a good, fun vibe regardless of whether you’re having a pint and watching the game or sitting down to a family brunch.