Something for everyone in this traditional Irish meeting place.
Words by Jesse Collins
Photo by Mark Kostel
If being an authentic Irish pub means good food, camaraderie and warmth, then The Brogue Inn in Port Credit is as authentic as it gets. Family-run for 15 years by the Donnellys—Tommy, Sherry, Shannon, Peter and Sean—The Brogue figuratively and literally lies at the heart of south Mississauga. A visit to The Brogue is a journey to the soul of Ireland: great food, engaging company, and service and value that can appeal to all.
A true gastropub, The Brogue is not only a place to get a wide range of spirits, beer and stouts, but it’s also a wonderful restaurant. Chef Freddy has been creating an astounding menu for the past four years, including dishes such as lamb shanks, chicken curries, Guinness steak and mushroom pies, and traditional fish and chips. And regulars have his Friday Creations marked on their calendars, including Freddy’s brilliant takes on Arctic char or smoked mackerel and much more. Rounded out by staples such as great steaks and burgers,plus a full Irish breakfast every Saturday and Sunday, The Brogue’s menu and daily specials are an ever-evolving delight for foodies.
Like its menu, the layout of The Brogue has something for everyone. With a capacity of 240 seats, it boasts a warm bar area at its heart and an adjoining dining room with tables and booths. Tucked in the back of the bar is the The Snug, a quiet place where regulars and visitors congregate for a chat and a pint, sharing the news of the day or reminiscing about times past. At the far end is Brogue Lane, a bright and airy space available for private parties, Christmas and holiday get-togethers and special events of all kinds. Suitable for groups of 10 to 60, Brogue Lane overlooks the corner of Hurontario and Lakeshore, with open views that extend down towards Lake Ontario. It’s the perfect place to celebrate with friends for any occasion or simply to meet for a cocktail after work.
Special events are truly special at The Brogue. You’ll need to get there very early for St. Patrick’s Day festivities (it’s always packed to capacity) but you can enjoy traditional Irish music every Thursday night with The Rogue Brogues, Ron MacEwen and Brian MacIntyre, often featuring the amazing Cape Breton fiddler Sandy MacIntyre. It’s not unusual on St. Paddy’s afternoon for Irish dancers to appear, with mirth and magic in the air.
The staff of 30 shares the Donnellys’ charm and friendliness, and, in the tradition of a true Irish pub, serves a clientele from all walks of life. Early afternoons can find punters enjoying the full sound and broadcast of Premier League and Champions League soccer matches; evenings welcome after-work conversations over Guinness or a quiet sit-down by the window over something from their extensive selection of wines and spirits. A lovely bar menu of table treats adds to the relaxing atmosphere.
The Brogue’s community involvement has always been at its core. Each year, their annual Polar Bear Dip has raised thousands of dollars for Trillium, Ian Anderson House and Autism Ontario, and they continue to sponsor numerous events and causes.
The Brogue is more than just a pub. It’s a meeting place, a respite from the busy world we live in, and a warm and friendly stop-over for both locals and visitors. It’s a place where community is an extension of family.
The Brogue Inn
136 Lakeshore Rd. E.
905-278-8444