Ní Béile Bidh Bia Gan Deoch is Irish for A meal is not a meal without a drink.
With St. Patrick’s Day happening this weekend, many locals are going to Jack Quinn’s Irish Pub and Restaurant for a stout (or a few) with their meal.
It was 1998 when Jack Quinn’s, located at 21 S Tejon St. in downtown Colorado Springs, was established. The building has a much older history though—it was initially built in 1883 and began as a dry-goods store. A black-and-white photo on the restaurant website shows unpaved streets and classic cars parked in front of the store.
At the turn of the 21st century, Frank Arcularius and Robert Hefley converted the dry-good store to a drug store; they also processed Kodak photos. Then, in 1943, a men’s clothing store took over (owned by the Goodbar Brothers), before it eventually became an authentic Irish pub—now called Jack Quinn’s—in 1998.
You can feel Colorado Springs’ history inside Jack Quinn’s, with its original wood and exposed brick. During renovations of the pub, artisans from Scotland, Wales, and Ireland used 100% imported Irish woodwork and stained glass to decorate. The result is a traditional and cozy environment boasting of both Ireland and Colorado Springs history.
Open seven days a week; Jack Quinn’s is a beloved restaurant in the Pikes Peak region. Authentic Irish foods (you have to try the Reuben Fritters) and a pint of cream ale can transport you to simpler days and the rolling hills of Ireland. On St. Patrick’s Day, the pub becomes an even livelier environment with its festive music, crowds, and overflowing pints.
If you live in Colorado Springs, support local and head on over to Jack Quinn’s this St. Patrick’s Day for a traditional and lively celebration. Slainté!