You’re driving down South Belcher Road in Largo, past the standard Florida strip malls and palm trees, when you see it. It’s not just another bar. Finley's Irish Pub and Eatery looks like it was plucked right out of a Dublin side street and dropped into the middle of Pinellas County.
Honestly, most people think "Irish Pub" and imagine some plastic shamrocks and a lukewarm Guinness. That's not this place.
Since 2008, Finley's has basically functioned as the living room for the Largo community. It’s a massive space, but somehow it feels tight-knit. You’ve got the dark wood, the sprawling mural of the Irish coast, and a draft system that actually keeps the Smithwick’s at the temperature it was intended to be served.
It's loud. It's lively. And if you show up on a Friday night, you’re probably going to end up in a conversation with a regular who has been sitting in the same stool since the Bush administration.
Why Finley's Irish Pub and Eatery Isn't Just for Tourists
Most "themed" restaurants feel like a movie set. You walk in, see the decor, and realize the food is an afterthought. Finley's flips that.
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The menu is a weird, wonderful hybrid of traditional Gaelic staples and American comfort food. You want a 9oz Prime Rib sandwich? They’ve got it. You want Bangers and Mash with a Guinness mushroom and onion gravy that’s thick enough to hide a secret in? They’ve got that too.
People swear by the Shepherd’s Pie. It’s not just ground beef and some mashed potatoes slapped on top. It’s seasoned beef, caramelized onions, peas, and carrots, all under a broiled whipped potato crust.
The Food Most People Miss
- The Shepherd’s Pie Quesadilla: This sounds like a fever dream, but it’s a real thing here. It’s basically the ultimate Irish-Mexican fusion that shouldn't work but absolutely does.
- Reuben Rolls: Think egg rolls, but stuffed with corned beef, cabbage, and Swiss.
- Colcannon: This is a house specialty—potatoes mashed with cabbage and onions, topped with cheddar. It’s the kind of side dish that makes you forget about fries.
The kitchen doesn't cut corners. They use fresh ingredients, and you can tell. Even the meatloaf is often described by regulars as "better than mom’s," though the menu warns you not to tell her that.
The Live Music Scene and The Famous Tent Parties
If you’re looking for a quiet, romantic candlelit dinner, maybe don’t come here on a Saturday night. Finley's Irish Pub and Eatery is a music venue as much as it is a restaurant.
They have a dedicated stage and dance floor inside, but the real magic happens during their "Tent Parties." These are exactly what they sound like—massive outdoor gatherings with a small cover charge, usually around $5, where the community just lets loose.
The lineup varies wildly. One night you might catch the Retro Vibe band playing 60s beach rock, and the next it’s Sandy Atkinson belting out blues ballads. There’s something about the humidity of a Florida night mixed with the energy of a live band and a cold pint of Harp that just feels right.
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What to Expect on the Schedule
- Trivia Nights: For the nerds who want to prove they know more about 80s pop culture than their neighbors.
- Classic Rock & Blues: Bands like the Griz Trio or the Rick Lingard Band are staples here.
- St. Patrick’s Day: This is their Super Bowl. If you aren't there by noon, good luck getting through the door. They usually run a limited menu with corned beef and cabbage to keep things moving.
Is It Actually Authentic?
Let’s be real: no pub in Florida is going to be 100% authentic Irish because the weather is too nice. But Finley's gets the spirit right.
The owners, John Hendrick Viv and the team, have managed to keep the place feeling personal. It’s pet-friendly on the outdoor patio, which even has a putting green. It’s the kind of place where the server, maybe Rob or Kailie, remembers your drink order before you even sit down.
There’s a nuance to the service here. Because it’s a high-volume spot, it can get slammed. If you go during a peak Friday rush, expect a wait. But the staff is known for "busting their tails," as one regular put it.
A Few Insider Tips
- The Putting Green: If the kids are getting restless, send them to the outdoor patio. It’s one of the few places where "family friendly" doesn't feel like a corporate slogan.
- The Pours: They take their Guinness seriously. No plastic cups here (unless it’s a massive outdoor event for safety), and the pour is patient.
- Lunch is the Secret: If you want to actually talk to someone, go for lunch. It’s way quieter, the service is lightning fast, and you can actually admire that mural of the Irish coast without a crowd in the way.
Planning Your Visit
Finley's is located at 13477 South Belcher Road in Largo. They’re open from 11:00 AM until late—midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.
They don't take reservations. It's first-come, first-served. If there's a big band playing, show up at least an hour early if you want a table with a view of the stage.
Next Steps for Your Trip:
Check their live music calendar before you go. If you’re a fan of a specific genre, like 80s rock or blues, you’ll want to coordinate your visit. If you’re looking for a deal, their "AppyHour" specials usually include discounts on drafts and their Jr. Burger during the late afternoon.
Grab a seat at the bar, order the Reuben rolls, and just soak it in. You’ll see why this place has outlasted so many other restaurants in the area. It’s got heart, and in the world of "lifestyle" dining, that’s becoming a rare find.