Updated for 2024.
Everyone’s Irish on St. Patrick’s Day. Live music, great food, green beer and lots of fun are what’s on tap at many local restaurants. There’s no reason that kids and families can’t join in the revelry too. Keep in mind most of these restaurants are Irish Pubs so lunch and early dinner are the best dining times for the whole family!
Bennigan’s, 4800 Merle Hay Road, Urbandale
Bennigan’s is an Irish-Pub themed family friendly restaurant chain. The Menu includes salads, sandwiches, steaks, soups, and they also serve up Irish inspired fare such as Housemade Cottage Pie and Irish Country Pot Roast. Little Leprechauns can chow down on mac ‘n cheese, grilled cheese and other typical Kids Menu items.
Founder’s Irish Pub, 110 1st Street SE, Bondurant
Situated right off the bike path in Bondurant, Founder’s Irish Pub provides an authentic atmosphere to enjoy the Emerald Isle’s renowned spirits and live musical entertainment. They also serve up a few Irish inspired foods like their Reuben Sandwich or give the Reuben Egg Rolls a try for a little twist on the traditional sandwich.
Magee’s Irish Pub & Eatery, 1610 SW Main Street, Suite 107, Ankeny
Located in the District at Prairie Trail , Magee’s, captures the essence of the “Irish Pub” in Ankeny. They serve traditional Irish fare like shepherd’s pie and bangers and mash, with a bar featuring a variety of Irish, Scottish and English beers.
Mickey’s Irish Pub, 50 SE Laurel Street, Waukee
This neighborhood pub offers a fun atmosphere. Mickey’s Irish Pub has a great patio and regularly host bands and live music. St. Paddy’s Day is their biggest celebration of the year. Their menu includes salads, sandwiches, steaks, soups and, of course, fish and chips.
Royal Mile, 210 4th Street, Des Moines
Walking into the Royal Mile feels like you’ve just been transported to London or Ireland. This terrific pub serves a vast array of English inspired food, such as fish and chips, bangers and mash and Guinness stew. And if you’re looking to fuel up before the parade, have one of their breakfast items such as corned beef and hash.
Do you have a favorite family friendly Irish restaurant in Des Moines? Tell us in the comments.
