ow I wish I was in Sherbrook now, or at least in Doolin's. Three words: Traditional, authentic, and Irish.

That's what comes to mind when thinking about Doolin's Irish Pub, located on the bustling, ever-so-trendy Granville Street. One of downtown's busiest bars, nestled amidst trendier go-tos like the neighbouring Roxy and Tonic, Doolin's stands out distinctively on the strip as, quite possibly, the loudest of the bunch.

There's something to be said for true Irish spirit bustling out of a true Irish pub. Decked out in old stained glass with a massive front bar crafted from deep, dark wood and finished with elegant brass rails, Doolin's really knows how to tug on the heartstrings of an Irish boy.

It's rumored that the bar, as large as she is, is no more than a two step from any table. I will put this theory to the test on St Patty's Day, though I doubt I'll make it any further than a one step.

This Irish landmark's new space is impeccable. From the private booths tucked into narrow corners (one dubbed, oh so faithfully, the “Guinness Pit”), the roaring. warm old brick fireplace, and the labyrinthine floor plan, Doolin’s doesn’t just look like an Irish pub, it is an Irish pub (except, you know, not in Ireland). The floors have a worn and beaten look from many a foot stomp, yet remain hole free (I'm not pointing any fingers here, I’m just saying). For a place that hasn't been around that long, Doolin's already wears its history proudly.