If you are looking for a pub in with a traditional Irish feel, complete with a pint of stout and hearty food, look no further than Father Flanagan’s. Founded by Irishman Colin McDonald and the McCraic Holdings Pte. Ltd, Father Flanagan’s is a real pub that would not be out of place back in the UK or even dear old Dublin . It has a welcoming warm feel thanks to its fine wooden furniture and floorboards. Legend has it that Father Flanagan had a secret brewery in the basement of the original Chijmes Convent and that it was fate that led to the creation of the current pub at this location. Whether this is a true story or a bit of old Irish Blarney is beside the point that you will have a great time at this former site of religious devotion. Whether you drop by for lunch, dinner or just a cold pint Father Flanagan’s will make sure you leave a bit merrier.

• Food
  Appetizers at Father Flanagan’s are known affectionately as Pub Grub and are great tasting items that combine both Irish and Singaporean styles. The Breaded Mushrooms are deep-fried yet juicy and taste remarkable with garlic mayonnaise. In true Singapore style Father Flanagan’s Fliers with Chili Dip are spicy and sometimes sold out. Another tasty appetizers are the yummy, bacon sandwiches, which are served with a generous portion of fries.

  If beef is your pleasure then Father Flanagan’s will definitely leave you smiling. Very tasty is the Australian Eye Fillet of Beef, which is wrapped in asparagus tips, and served with dauphinoise potatoes and red wine juice , this fillet will leave you satisfied and ready for a cold pint. House specialties at Father Flanagan’s include, Irish stew, Shepherds Pie and a Beef and Guinness Pie. Each of these is hearty and cooked with a great sense of what Irish cuisine can be at it’s best.

  Other dishes on the dinner menu include seafood pasta, some healthy salads and the Beef Burger #2, which is served with a Fried egg, cheddar cheese, bacon, beetroot, pineapple & fried onions – easily qualifying it as one of the most satisfying burgers in town.

• Atmosphere
  The interior of the Father Flanagan’s has a warm Dublin pub feel, with its wood furnishings and furniture. The dimly lit mood lends one to that favourite Irish pastime of conversing….and drinking. Smoking is still allowed throughout much of the premises, except for during lunch hours ( 12-3pm ), when there is no smoking indoors. There are many dining areas outside of the restaurant in the fountain area of Chijmes.

• Service
  A strong point to the Father Flanagan’s dining experience is the top quality staff that they employ. During my visit the staff was friendly and helpful and able to answer my questions about the food and the beer selection.

• Beer
  Father Flanagan’s beer selection consists primarily of Guinness, Kilkenny and Strongbow, which are all on tap . They can also prepare a few specialties like a Black & Tan, a Half an Half or a Black Velvet. Bottled beers include Erdinger, Heineken, Hoegaarden and the popular Manchester brew Boddingtons.

The SD Food Advisor’s take on Father Flanagan’s
Father Flanagan’s succeeds in it’s attempt to do what some would say is impossible, i.e. create a real Irish pub in the tropics. It has a simple approach of providing tasty, hearty food and great tasting beer. I found the pint of Guiness at Father Flanagan’s to be perhaps the best in all of Singapore , quenching; yet filling. So if your need to take a break from your normal Singapore routine and you are up for an Irish or UK experience Father Flanagan’s may well be the place for you.