At Macallan’s Public House in downtown Brea, you’ll find a connoisseur’s selection of over 200 types of scotch, whiskey and bourbon unmatched in Orange County; an impressive offering of artisanal beers and expertly crafted cocktails. Macallan’s elevates pub fare with generous portions of classic, comfort dishes made with the best, freshest ingredients showcasing the talent of Chef Roman Jimenez who aspires to combine both modern-creative and traditional pub styles of cooking.
True to their name, a full day of St. Patrick’s Day festivities will include live entertainment, Irish fare and libations at the Brea pub from 10:00 a.m. to 2 a.m. on March 17. Festivities include performances by live bands, DJ, a strolling bagpiper and, of course, Irish-inspired food and spirits. Selections include twenty-three Irish whiskeys, Macallans signature original Irish coffee and four Irish beers on tap including TAPS award-winning Irish Red.
Privy to a preview of dishes that Macallan’s is featuring on their St. Patrick’s Day buffet plus some, we were impressed by the exceptional elevated pub fare. Don’t let the word ‘elevated’ scare you. Chef Roman’s Shepherd’s Pie of braised ground beef and lamb, onions, peas, carrots crowned with a tangle of crispy parsnips, is the best I’ve ever had. No kidding. And the crispy parsnips added a delightful textural element and a crunch that makes every bite of this comforting dish even better. This dish is always on the menu and will be offered on St. Patrick’s Day as well.
The Banger’s and Mash at Macallan’s is an equally satisfying savory dish and a regular menu item which will also have a place on the St. Patrick’s Day buffet. The two charred bangers (aka sausages) Brussels sprouts, mashed potatoes and onion gravy os a medley of homey flavors that tantalize your taste buds and pairs perfectly with an Irish Red or Guinness.
Of course, Corned Beef and Cabbage is the star on St. Patrick’s Day and Chef Roman adds his twist with house-cured corned beef, braised savoy cabbage, baby Yukon gold potatoes served with a duck liver demi-glace and harissa sour cream.
Macallan’s Fish & Chips are Lager-battered true cod accompanied by a creamy cole slaw, potato wedges, and house-made tartar sauce. Incredibly crunchy and delicious when quaffing a pint.
A fabulous finale to your Scottish/Irish experience would be their Bourbon Maple Bread Pudding! I’m not a huge dessert fan, preferring instead an Irish coffee or whiskey neat, but this tower of sweet and savory goodness was unforgettable!
Scrumptious! Bourbon Maple Bread Pudding – Challah bread, bourbon maple syrup, bananas, candied bacon.
In order to accommodate the anticipated crowds, Macallans will extend the party to Sky Lounge, an open-air venue adjacent to the restaurant. A wristband giving access to the upstairs area, live bands and DJ can be purchased for $15.99. The price includes a food buffet of bangers & mash, shepherd’s pie, corned beef sliders and housemade pretzels. Drinks are not included but a limited menu of Irish beers and whiskey will be available for purchase.
The live entertainment line-up will take place in the Sky Lounge, beginning at 2:30 p.m. when Vagrant Nation performs followed by the Dropkick Mickeys and DJ spun tunes.
Macallan’s is located at 330 W Birch St., Brea Downtown. For more information please visit www.macallanspubbrea.com or call (714) 529-1224.
Macallan’s is a pub you’ll want to visit time and again, not just on St. Patrick’s Day. With live Irish entertainment, Chef Roman’s unique twist on pub fare favorites and a wide selection of Irish beers and whiskeys, its sure to be an unforgettable St. Patty’s celebration, but visiting on a less auspicious day is highly recommended so you can enjoy the true flavor and hospitality of MacCallan’s.
Top o’the evening to ya!
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