I have been at the Fado's in Chicago, and Dick O'Dow's in Birmingham, Michigan. They are both pre-fab pubs built in Ireland and then shipped here with a crew of Irish carpenters who assemble it onsite. I would offer a couple of comments. The Guinness is usually just right, appropriate temp, dedicated tap and allowed to sit the right amount of time. The food in both places was excellent, Shepard's pie was out of this world, as were the Angels on Horseback. The entertainment in both places was polished and done well, but a little light. Still very entertaining, though. Having said all that, one gets the distinct impression that one is on a movie set. And the crowd is invariably what I would call yuppyish. Just a little too trendy for the Aul Mick. And not two rebel songs to rub together, but they aren't there to listen to the band anyway. An aside: I did get to play a Halpin Bodhran here. Fred Halpin of Gloucester, Ontario makes as fine a sounding and playing instrument as you will find anywhere. Back to the review. I would recommend to anyone that they visit these places at least once. I usually go there during off hours, for the food, and then head to The Gaelic League or The Fenians for the craic/music.

All the best,

Mick