O'Sheas Irish Bar - Manchester - Pub Reviews

Read our Pub review of O'Sheas Irish Bar in Manchester. Explore its atmosphere, food and drink offerings, customer service, and unique features.

REVIEWSMANCHESTER

12/13/20244 min read

We piled into O’Sheas on Princess Street - Manchester’s Celtic heartland where perfectly‑settled Guinness, bodhrán riffs and match‑day roars mingle with steaming bowls of Irish stew for an evening of full‑throttle craic.

Name: O'Sheas Manchester

Location: 80 Princess Street, City Centre, Manchester, M1 6NF

Phone: (0161) 236 3906

Opening Hours:

  • Monday to Thursday: 12:00 PM - 12:00 AM

  • Friday to Saturday: 12:00 PM - 2:00 AM

  • Sunday: 12:00 PM - 12:00 AM

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.2/5)

Facilities & Entertainment:

  • Parking: No dedicated parking available.

  • Darts & Pool Table: No darts or pool table mentioned.

  • Live Sports: Yes, O'Sheas is well-known for broadcasting live sports, especially rugby and football. It draws a crowd during key sports events and has a great atmosphere for sports enthusiasts. Most premier league and Celtic matches shown here.

Food on Offer:

O'Sheas offers a classic pub menu with Irish-inspired dishes. The menu includes favourites like:

  • Irish Stew: A hearty dish with tender lamb, root vegetables, and potatoes.

  • Fish and Chips: Freshly battered fish served with chunky chips.

  • Chicken Wings: A popular choice, available with various sauces.

The menu features a mix of traditional Irish food alongside classic British pub fare, catering to a wide range of tastes.

Beers on Tap:

O'Sheas features a solid selection of beers, including:

  • Guinness: A staple Irish stout that draws many visitors.

  • Smithwick's Ale: A classic Irish red ale known for its smooth taste.

  • Hop House 13 Lager: A refreshing lager with a slightly hoppy character.

  • Local Craft Beers: They also support local breweries by rotating a selection of regional ales.

Price Range: ££ (Moderate)

  • Pint of Beer: £4-£5

  • Main Dishes: £10-£15

  • Appetizers & Snacks: £5-£8

Customer Service:

Feedback on customer service is generally positive. Many visitors praise the friendly and welcoming staff, who contribute to the pub's lively atmosphere. There have been occasional mentions of wait times during busy sports nights, but the service is often described as attentive and efficient, even in crowded conditions.

Events & Special Nights:

O'Sheas is renowned for its lively atmosphere, especially during:

  • Live Music Nights: Regular Irish music performances create an authentic vibe, drawing both locals and tourists.

  • Sports Events: Key sports events, particularly rugby and football matches, are shown on large screens. These events are among the most popular, attracting passionate crowds.

  • St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations: A highlight of the year, featuring traditional Irish music, food, and festivities.

In-Depth Review:

O'Sheas in Manchester offers an authentic slice of Irish culture in the heart of the city. This pub stands out with its commitment to providing a genuine Irish experience, from its menu to its music. It's a hub for sports fans, particularly those with a passion for rugby and football, who gather to watch games on big screens. The presence of local craft beers alongside Irish classics like Guinness and Smithwick’s reflects a blend of traditional and local that many appreciate.

The clientele is diverse. On any given night, you'll find young professionals, university students, sports enthusiasts, and tourists—all drawn by the lively atmosphere and friendly environment. The pub gets especially busy during sports events and live music nights, creating a buzzing, energetic ambiance that can turn any evening into a memorable one.

The pub is spacious, with ample seating and a large bar area, though accessibility options for those with mobility needs are limited. There's no dedicated parking, so it's best to arrive via public transport or find parking nearby. During warm weather, outdoor seating provides a pleasant space to enjoy drinks in the city centre.

In terms of food, O'Sheas stays true to its Irish roots with offerings like traditional stews and hearty fare, perfect for a casual night out. The prices are reasonable for a city-centre venue, making it a solid choice for a mid-week meal or weekend outing.

O'Sheas in Manchester shines due to its distinct atmosphere, combining Irish tradition with the bustling energy of a city-centre pub. The beer selection is a standout feature, showcasing a blend of classic Irish brews. This commitment to tradition, while supporting local breweries, creates an authentic drinking experience that sets O'Sheas apart from other venues. The pub's vibrant and warm environment, particularly on sports nights and during live music performances, fosters a sense of camaraderie among patrons. The friendly and attentive service from the staff adds to the welcoming ambiance, which keeps visitors coming back, whether they are sports fans, lovers of Irish music, or just seeking a lively evening out.

However, O'Sheas does face some challenges, especially during peak times. Service can slow down during major sporting events, with staff often stretched thin due to the influx of customers. For some, the lack of a dedicated parking area can be a drawback, especially for those driving into the city. Accessibility within the pub is another area that might be improved; limited options for those with mobility issues could hinder their experience, particularly given the busy nature of the bar. While these factors might impact some visitors, they do not overshadow the pub’s overall appeal, which remains strong for most patrons seeking an authentic Irish pub experience in Manchester.

Overall, O'Sheas offers a robust, enjoyable pub experience with a touch of Irish charm. Whether you're in the mood for a pint of Guinness, craving traditional Irish cuisine, or looking for a lively place to watch a match, it has something to offer for everyone. It's a solid choice for those seeking a vibrant night out in Manchester, especially if you love the spirited energy of an Irish pub.

Reviewed by: Pub Reviews Team