Undercover Diner

Dish transforms on St. Patrick’s Day into something far more than a neighborhood restaurant—it becomes a lively, music-filled celebration that feels equal parts tradition and hidden gem. Returning for a second year, this time with the foresight of a reservation, proved to be a wise move. The space was packed wall-to-wall, buzzing with anticipation and conversation, yet never tipping into chaos. Instead, it felt like stepping into a well-kept secret that everyone somehow already knew about.

The heartbeat of the evening was, once again, Jim Robertson & Friends. Their traditional Celtic and Irish music wove effortlessly through the dining room, elevating the experience beyond food alone. It wasn’t just background noise—it was immersive, giving each bite and sip a sense of occasion. The decision to make this an annual tradition suddenly felt less like a plan and more like an inevitability.

Dinner began on a high note with what turned out to be the last bottle of Chianti in the house—a small but satisfying victory. Paired with thick slices of brown bread slathered in Kerry Gold butter, it set the tone beautifully. The bread, reminiscent of Irish soda bread, was soft, hearty, and dangerously addictive. It demanded restraint, the kind that only comes from knowing the kitchen has much more in store.

The special St. Patrick’s Day menu leaned fully into tradition, offering classics like bangers and mash, shepherd’s pie, fish and chips, and corned beef. Returning to the fish and chips felt like revisiting a favorite chapter. This year’s version featured strips rather than a thick fillet, a subtle shift that changed the texture but not the enjoyment. The fish remained crisp and flavorful, paired with perfectly executed hand-cut fries that struck the ideal balance between golden exterior and fluffy interior.

The shepherd’s pie stood out not only for its generous portion but for the richness of its meat—deeply satisfying and clearly a highlight. The pasties, filled with corned beef, potatoes, and chives, offered a comforting, handheld twist on tradition, neatly packaged yet full of flavor.

Meanwhile, the bangers and mash delivered exactly what one hopes for: hearty, well-seasoned, and portioned just right—comfort food done with confidence.

Ending the night with vanilla cream pie felt like the natural conclusion to an already indulgent evening. Light yet decadent, it provided a sweet, satisfying finish without overstaying its welcome.

What makes Dish on St. Patrick’s Day special is not just the food, though it certainly delivers—it’s the atmosphere, the music, and the sense of shared experience. It is the kind of place where traditions are born not out of habit, but because the experience is too good not to repeat.