Merlins Rest Pub
| Address: | 3601 E Lake St, Minneapolis, MN 55406, USA |
| Phone: | +1 612-216-2419 |
| Site: | merlinsrest.com |
| Rating: | 4.5 |
| Working: | 11AM–1AM 11AM–2AM 11AM–2AM 11AM–2AM 11AM–2AM 11AM–2AM 11AM–2AM |
Location
Photos 100
Reviews 7
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Debra Kellems
“The proper drinking of Scotch whisky is more than indulgence: it is a toast to civilization, a tribute to the continuity of culture, a manifesto of man’s determination to use the resources of nature to refresh mind and body and enjoy to the full the senses with which he has been endowed.” – David Daiches, Scotch Whisky 1969 Since the attendance of our first monthly scotch tasting in October of 2016, my husband and I knew we stumbled upon one of the city’s finest hidden gems. When you first walk into Merlins Rest Pub you find yourself in unpretentious surroundings, always greeted by a smiling face with a joyful demeanor. This review will speak on point to the monthly and private scotch tastings the pub offers. First, arrive early, grab a tap special, and peruse the menu. The fare will not disappoint. My husband’s go to happens to be the Steak and Pudding, whereas I am quite keen on the British Fish and Chips. The tone for the evening is set by a ceremonious march of the bagpipes played, Dennis, The Whisky Guru; as well as a Gaelic welcome and toast bellowed in jolly fashion by Bill Watkins, Ambassador of Culture. Dennis takes great pride and care in the selection of the four featured whiskeys, and his breadth of knowledge of scotch and all of its intricate complexities, history and geography is exceptional. The tasting is interlaced with Bill’s endless recollections of his life not only in Ireland, Scotland but of all his worldly travels; stories of historical, humorous and sometimes somber nature. (As aside, Bill has authored a literary trilogy available for purchase which are spectacular reads and highly recommended). You will enjoy a night of intellect, education, and humor not to outshine a remarkable flight of whiskeys. Our experience at the monthly tastings only broadened our desire to learn more about scotch whiskeys and keeps us coming back month after month. The pub also offers private tastings tailored to your liking and experience level. I opted to arrange a private tasting in celebration of my husband’s birthday. I worked with Lee, Owner, who thoroughly interviewed me to gain insight into my husband’s taste and experience level. He worked side by side with Dennis to create an incredible flight of six whiskeys, many quite rare and indulgent, producing an unforgettable evening for the two gentleman and one lady in attendance. Lee humbly poured and served each glass, accompanied by the bottle to be perused and inspected by the table. (Be sure to photograph the bottles and add them to your brag book. They are sure to make lively conversation with good friends in the future). Dennis once again took his time to answer every question we had in detail without hesitation, reiterating his vast knowledge, and years of study and education of the all things scotch. He was even so kind to grace us with a song of Happy Birthday played on his bagpipes. The attention to detail and care put into the whole presentation was, in our humble opinion, world class. My husband is already anticipating what will surely become a yearly birthday tradition. To wrap up this lengthy review of our favorite pub, you will not be disappointed. You will always come away happy, having learned something new with every visit. Over time, the staff will become friends and when you walk in door you almost start to feel like family.
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Jay Bottem
Always a great place, with a great atmosphere, and even better staff! My friends and I frequent the place enough that we have become well known to most of the staff, if not all. This has greatly accented the friendliness between ourselves and Merlins, as we now feel accepted as though we are family. The better part being that they really made us feel this way from the beginning - we just had not really fully realized it then. They have amazing food, desserts that are updating and tasty every time. They have an impressive Scotch lineup and many fine drinks on tap or in bottle. Favorite meal: Tots with a side of Earl (Earl Sandwich with Tater-tots instead of chips or crisps). Favorite drink: DarknStormy (upgrade: DarknForbidden) Second favorite drink: Irish Storm (upgrade: Irish Perfect Storm) To note: I do not condone drinking and driving, nor drinking to excess. Drinking should be handled responsibly!
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Rory McGarrity
Prior post was a troll, they paid me $14hr. to work there but even the porter position is a demanding and laboring job, quit because I was to afraid to tap a keg, and my trainee, was a little wet behind the ears, as was I. Tracy is a great woman to work for, but mind you this is a traditional Celctic Pub so if you want to watch sports or talk about the Kardashians I highly suggest you go to OGaras. Shepards pie was my favorite dish of there. I am only disappointed in my self for letting a fine establishment down due to anxiety. Place is packed with live music and folks partake in Limerick. If I ever could make amends and muster up the balls to tell Tracy I am sorry I would.
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Seth Jurrens
The waitstaff was very accommodating to our party of 8, despite our lingering for almost 2 hours! The atmosphere was welcoming and nostalgic -- beckoning us to cross the Atlantic to the UK and Ireland. Tax is included in the pricing on the menu, so dont be discouraged by the slightly higher-looking prices. There is plenty of street parking nearby without meters. They have scotch tastings the first Thursday of every month too, proceeded by a ceremonious march around the bar by 2 of the staff -- bearing the 4 scotches, and 2 kilted men -- one wielding a broadsword and the other playing the bagpipes. An experience, to be sure.
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A Private User
Everything about Merlins Rest takes you to another place, across the Atlantic. The selection of on tap beverages includes traditional favorites like Belhaven, Strongbow, and of course Guiness. The menu is limited, but includes all the basics - Cottage Pie, Pasties, Guiness Stew, and Fish and Chips - at reasonable prices. Though the beverages and the food are delicious, the real reason to come to Merlins is the ambiance. Whether you are part Irish or 100% Scandinavian you will feel at home with the friendly waitresses, the personable bartenders, and the rest of the crew that will know you by name on your next visit.
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A Private User
My wife and I havent been in a pub THIS authentic since living in Britain. All countries in the Isles are represented here. The food is wonderful, Guinness Stew, Cottage Pie, vegetarian choices (rare in a bar) are also available. Theyve just started making breakfasts on the weekends, and this is the REAL deal. Rashers of bacon, great bangers, beans, and American breakfast food too! The ambiance is the most important part of the pub. Its a real experience, with regulars and newbies getting along within minutes. Great music, beer, Scotch selection, and people!
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Nate Jenkins
The staff are amazing . Tasha the Hostess was well above the position she has of now. Tasha helped with my drink cause the waitress Cindy was so busy. Tasha also dazzled my vision in dealing with my drunken cohort . She Deserves a raise and promotion. Cindy was a a good server and charming. The food was amazing . Steak , mash, bread and gravy are Worth the drive . Owner Lee could use better skill in dealing with people. The ambassador is a class act cheeky bugger and made the atmosphere genuinely better . I will visit again for the food and staff.
