I have never been to Ireland. I have, however,  had the pleasure of exploring the wonderful tastes of the region right here in Louisville.

The Irish Rover is an oasis of authentic, made-from-scratch Irish cuisine, including my all-time favorite fish and chips.

A combination of hearty portions, savory flavors, and a true-to-Ireland atmosphere are a few of the reasons my family and I keep going back for more.

Walking through the big green double doors of The Irish Rover put a big smile on my face. Once inside, a friendly server took us to our seats and asked what we would like to drink.   

Moments later a basket of freshly baked Irish soda bread and drinks to accompany it arrived. As I devoured the soda bread, I wondered if I will ever order anything but the crisp fish and chips topped with The Rover’s mouthwatering house-made tartar sauce.

“Pondering the menu is of no use,” my mother says. When the food arrives, the essence of Ireland fills the air and the feast is on.

With a culture so strong, The Irish Rover’s menu is filled with great eats. They have world famous Guinness stews with rich and creamy tastes and have the savoriest rosemary lamb chops.

Taken straight from the owner’s home town in Ireland, The Rover’s recipes are nothing but authentic. Michael Reidy spent his childhood in the little town of Bantry.

Learning to cook from his grandmother, Michael soon loved to make great dishes. With little money and big dreams, he came to America to attend culinary school at Sullivan University. After graduating, he began saving money while he worked at a small restaurant.

Within four years he had bought the building we all know now as The Irish Rover. Each time I go to The Rover, I feel even closer to the heritage behind its walls. I begin to taste the passion put into every dish and the years spent working on Michael’s dream.

The faces that once were workers are now the faces of friends. As I walk out the double doors, I leave wondering when I will walk back inside, almost dreaming of the meals I’ll have the next time I visit The Irish Rover.