Firstly, what is #ShowUsYourLocal, it’s a campaign started by Jamie Oliver’s Drinktube, which is an extremely popular channel on Youtube. I’m delighted they’ve asked me to join in. So here’s a little video to give you an idea of what it’s all about.
Well, I’m not going to do a video, as I lack those skills, but I am going to tell you about my local, and what I love about it.
I’ve chosen Smyth’s on the Square, in Navan. Navan is my hometown, situated approximately 30 miles to the northwest of Dublin. Navan itself is a large enough town with a population of 30,000, and would be a commuter town as it is within striking distance of Dublin. The craft beer side of things has been slow to come, but Smyth’s has always been the exception to that.
Now Smyth’s is very much a local’s pub. A pub that is entrenched in the psyche of the town. Firstly its got a great hidden beer garden that’s a blast on a summers day, regular open mic nights, and games of pool and darts. They’ve been known to even host beer festivals during the summers.
The landlord / owner Arthur has taken over the helm from his dad, and is running this place in his own way. He is a huge supporter for our Local beer and cider makers making sure to stock their products, but he’s also hugely passionate about good beers too. He is also gracious enough to host my local homebrew clubs meetings. Something which sets him apart from every other publican in my hometown.
Don’t let the narrow entrance to the side of the off licence put you off, you’re stepping into what I would describe as the archetypal genuine Irish pub experience. The landlord and the staff know your name, and they know your regular tipple. And any man who shares a bottle of Black Ops by Brooklyn Brewery with you after a successful beer festival is top notch in my book.
So if you ever find yourself in Navan, make sure to hit up Smyth’s on the Square, right next to Bank of Ireland and a huge bull statue on the towns old Market Square.
Tell us about your local, in the comments below, by twitter, facebook, or youtube. Make sure you use the hashtag #ShowUsYourLocal
Irish Beer Snob 