Barley Republic Public House & Restaurant

On our first night in Saint Augustine we walked around the historic area with our kids looking at Christmas lights.  It was brisk, and as dinnertime approached we searched for someplace to grab some comfort food and a stiff drink.  We decided to pay Barley Republic Irish Public House & Restaurant a try.

Barley Republic is located at 48 Spanish Street in a pale green two story building. Irish, Scottish and American flags hung from the balcony.  Christmas lights streamed over a fence that ringed the patio while patrons sipped drinks at raised tables under the gas heaters.

We decided to see about a table inside and entered the warm pub. A family was departing just as we arrived, and we settled in at a wooden table adjacent to the door. A waitress came over and handed us both drink and food menus.  I feel compelled to order a Guinness whenever I am in an Irish pub and requested a pint.  Becky opted for a sweet white wine while the kids went with soda.

Our drinks arrived at the table without delay and we weighed our dining options.  Barley Republic serves up traditional pub fare ranging from bangers and mash, to fish and chips, and Shepherd’s pie.  I was in the mood for something friend and ordered the fish and chips.  At the recommendation of our waitress Becky requested the chicken pot pie.

While we waited for our meals to arrive we attempted to keep the kids entertained while enjoying our drinks.  Televisions were tuned to sports and there was not an empty seat in the house.  The atmosphere was cozy, warm, and welcoming.  If Becky and I had date night at Barley Republic we could have sat at the bar for hours and enjoyed drinks and conversation.

The food arrived after a short wait.  Two large battered portions of fish were balanced on a serving of fresh cut French fries.  A side of homemade tartar sauce and coleslaw completed the meal.  The food was piping hot.  The fish was crispy on the outside and moist on the inside.  Everything was well seasoned and I enjoyed the Barley Republic’s take on this pub classic. Becky’s chicken pot pie was covered by a large piece of puff pastry. Underneath a creamy base contained vegetables and large pieces of chicken.  It was pretty to look at and tasted great.

Full of pub food and beer I happily paid the tab and we headed back towards the car.  Our dinner at Barley Republic was very good, and I would love to pay them a return visit the next time we are in Saint Augustine.  The restaurant is open Monday – Thursday: 11:30 am – 2:00 am, Friday – Saturday: 11:30 am – 2:00 am, 11:30 am – 2:00 am, and on Sunday from 11:30 am – 2:00 am.  Barley Republic can be found online at barleyrepublicph.com and on Facebook.  They can be contacted by telephone at (904) 547-2023.

Sweet Tea & Bourbon’s Rating:
Atmosphere: A
Taste: A
Presentation: B
Service: A
Cleanliness: A
Price: $