Malone's Irish Bar

The 2012 edition of The List's Eating & Drinking Guide is out now – only £5.95 (+p&p).

This review is taken from the 2011 edition.

Malone's Irish Bar certainly can’t be accused of misrepresenting itself. Owned and run by natives of the Emerald Isle, the cavernous property oozes Irishness from its street-level entrance area, the large central room with tables for dining and large screens for sports events, and an upstairs section where softer lighting and exposed brickwork create a more relaxed mood. The walls throughout are hung with pictures of Irish sportsmen – mainly rugby players – and drinks posters. Antiques are dotted around the building and upstairs there is even a traditional green phone box. Live music is the big draw, with performances at least five days a week and a blackboard on the upper level lists the forthcoming attractions. Not surprisingly, the Guinness and Beamish are excellent, and there is also a good value food menu. Simple starters such as soup and potato wedges are followed by mains such as fish and chips – in a crunchy Guinness batter, of course – and burgers. Alternatively, a full Irish breakfast, accompanied by soda bread, should sustain drinkers through the next session of live music or big-screen sport.

• High point: There's always sport or music going on
• Low point: Entertainment is a bigger draw than food