|
|
|||
Described as the neighborhood “Cheers” joint, Finn MacCool’s is a landmark in the Port Washington community that has been around for nearly 30 years. It is named after a giant, semi mythical character from the ancient Gaelic legends. Located on the bustling Main Street in the heart of town, this Irish American Restaurant is dedicated to treating their customers to top quality cuisine and efficient service, in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Customers have the option to dine in the active bar area or in the large, open dining area for a more formal experience.
Owner Connie O’Reilly opened Finn MacCool’s in 1984 with the idea of adding some Irish flare to the neighborhood. Connie and his wife, who also own a few restaurants in New York City, thought Port Washington would be the perfect place for an Irish restaurant because there were none there at the time they opened. The restaurant was an instant hit. In fact, when the New York Mets won the World Series in 1986, a number of the players came here to celebrate and it became a regular haunt for the team.
We
began with the Irish Smoked Salmon Plate featuring sliced egg, minced onion, crème
fraiche, capers, toast points and crisp beans (above right). This appetizer is
presented in true tasting format and is a beautifully plated,
delectably light starter. The Sea Scallop Salad is a popular lunch salad, but we’d recommend it at all hours of the day (below left). This fresh salad consists of pan seared sea scallops, baby arugula, feta cheese, chopped bacon, cherry tomatoes and red onion lightly tossed in a mustard vinaigrette. The scallops were fresh and flavorful and the bacon is an excellent additive for further flavoring. It’s a light, refreshing and healthy meal featuring lots of enjoyably bright flavors.
Next
up was the 20 Day Aged New York Strip Steak, a favorite amongst customers (above
right). The steak is seasoned and char broiled, served with roasted potatoes,
broccoli, carrots and grilled asparagus. Served on a sizzling platter, the steak
smelt incredible as it reached our table. It was cooked to perfection and was
impressively flavorful. Worcestershire and A1 Sauce are served alongside for dipping
if desired, but the steak stands well on its own. We continued with the Crabmeat Stuffed Shrimp, a dinner special available that evening (below left). Served with saffron rice and vegetables, the shrimp were tender, nicely spiced and generously stuffed with fresh crabmeat. The presentation was appealing and the soft, tasty saffron nice and steamed vegetables were the perfect complement to the shrimp.
The Braised Beef Short Rib is slow cooked with red wine and fresh rosemary, served with mashed potatoes and wilted garlic spinach, topped with a beef au jus (above right). The short rib was fork tender and amply coated in the luscious au jus. The sides also shined as the mashed potatoes were smooth and creamy and the spinach was perfectly seasoned. We couldn’t leave without sampling the burger they are known for, the Finn MacCool Burger (below left). Found on their bar menu, this juicy burger is topped with your choice of cheese, crispy bacon, lettuce, tomato and onion. The bacon really brings the burger to life and the seasoned French fries served alongside the burger were delicious and quite addicting.
The
homemade Cheesecake is served with homemade whipped cream and fresh strawberries
(above right). It was rich, creamy and the ideal decadent ending to our dining
experience. From
the professional, attentive and polite service to the outstanding cuisine
compliments of Chef Chris, you’re bound to have a picture perfect dining
experience at Finn MacCool’s. It is definitely a must visit when you’re in
search of a relaxing meal or a refreshing cocktail in a casual, welcoming
atmosphere. They even offer great nightly specials! (Monday – ½ priced wine
bottles, Tuesday – Seniors receive ½ priced entrees, Wednesday – Italian Pasta
Night, Thursday – Seafood Night, Friday – Irish Night featuring live music with
George on saxophone, Saturday – Prime rib special with a live harpist, Sunday –
Brunch, includes free Bloody Mary or Mimosa)
|
