Renovations to Byrne’s Pub have resulted in a bit more polish to the interior space than years past, the refinished surfaces and all-new ceiling likely too nice to label Byrne’s a dive bar anymore. But the atmosphere benefits from the elevation of the experience, the vibe now in line with a comfortable, neighborhood Irish pub rather than Irish-themed dive. Left intact, thankfully, is the free popcorn machine in the corner of the floorplan, the smell preserving the familiar feeling of entering Bryne’s Pub.
In a Columbus Irish bar founded by three brothers, it comes as no surprise that the walls are covered in family photos, vintage shots depicting generations of Byrne’s, again adding that welcoming, neighborhood touch to the space. A long bar commands the Byrne’s Pub main room, green lamps illuminating a set of 12 tap beers and the expected assortment of liquor, heavy on Irish whiskey of course. Co-owner Patrick Byrne went so far as to found his own Irish whiskey brand in 2020 with partner Martin Kennedy, an ex-Irish whiskey brand ambassador. The brand, Bua Irish Whiskey, is of course served here and can be found in liquor stores throughout the city.
Prime seating can be found in the padded booths near the bar’s front door, adjacent to the popcorn machine and a set of windows that looks out onto Grandview’s bustling Third Avenue. These spots fill up quickly, a handful of high-top tables (some of them immovable) available throughout this main room offering alternative seating in addition to the beer ledges that line parts of the wall between rooms. A large booth anchors a small alcove next to the bar, an interior archway leading to the bar’s bathrooms and video games.
