Daily dispatches on the Washington, DC area's food, restaurant and dining scene.

Irish Whiskey Opens—and Pours a $177 Spirit

Cash to burn? Try the exotic Knappogue Castle 1951 at this new bar from the Mighty Pint people.

By Anna Spiegel

Irish Whiskey, now serving up corned-beef-and-cabbage spring rolls in Dupont. Photograph courtesy Irish Whiskey

Irish Whiskey opens today in Dupont for lunch and dinner, and is primed to fulfill all your beer and whiskey needs over the weekend. The three-story space, formerly Porter’s, got a full redesign from Maggie O’Neill of O'Neill Studios (Hank’s Oyster Bar and Lounge, Sax), and the pub decor includes green-hued bars, plaid banquettes, and plenty of dark wood, plus Epcot-ian touches like faux fireplaces and taxidermy.

The booze selection focuses on brews and whiskey, with both imported and local drafts (Harp, Flying Dog), as well as more-potent pours that range from the familiar (Bushmills) to the rare and expensive (Knappogue Castle 1951, which goes for $177 an ounce). The owners, who’re also behind the nearby Mighty Pint, are going for more than just bar fare, and have brought on chef Sean McIntosh (formerly of Dean & Deluca) to whip up lunch, dinner, and eventually brunch menus. Classics like fish and chips and shepherd’s pie are served alongside steaks, lobster, and more-interpretive fare—think corned-beef-and-cabbage spring rolls.

Irish Whiskey. 1207 19th St., NW; 202-463-3010; irishwhiskeydc.com. Open Monday through Thursday 11 AM to 2 AM, Saturday 9 AM to 3 AM, and Sunday 9 AM to 2 AM (brunch is set to begin in coming weeks).

Comments

It is no longer green! The decor on both the interior and exterior is magnificent. The owners and design team really knew what they were doing. The cuisine prepared my Chef Mcintosh is not only presented perfectly, but prepared in a way that is truly out of this world. I sampled five drinks off their whiskey menu and look forward to experiencing some others during my next visit! I have no doubt in my mind that this Public House is going to do big things in the city! It is truly remarkable!

Posted by: Sb, Jan 09, 2012 03:15:23 PM

I miss Porters!

Posted by: DH, Jan 06, 2012 02:22:56 PM

That green paint is atrocious! Was it on clearance at the paint store or what? Believe me, it does not look any better in person. I can only hope the interior is better.

Posted by: am, Jan 06, 2012 12:59:34 PM