refuse to believe The Morrissey Irish Bar and Grill is a simple dining lounge to its counterpart, the Ramada Inn, as insinuated by the hotel/Inn. In fact, I seldom acknowledge the looming presence of the Ramada over Granville Street, this being the part of town where “Ramada” isn’t necessarily the hottest go-to. If the sign helps you find one of the city’s best Irish haunts though, then by all means, Ramada away.

The Morrissey has always been a stand out on the uber hip Granville Street for being the laid back older brother to the much younger, slicker city club vibe of the well known strip. The place is more an unassuming hideaway than a flashy go to, veering south on Granville Street off Davie where more of the trendier go-to’s merge north.

It’s on this northern block that the Morrissey takes a stand as a pretentious-free zone, amidst an ostentatious strip of clubs, as a place that lives up to the down home feel of a good Irish pub without having to over compensate like some of its neighbors (i.e. no “mine is bigger than yours” competition). The Morrissey knows its street value and its clientele - everything from roaming travelers to some dot comer’s ready to get a pint in them before the lunch hour ends. And there’s something to be said for places that have nothing to prove: they’re Irish.

The Morrissey’s décor is simple, even in its attempt to recognize the 21st century and introduce some modern flare. This “modern” look stems from gorgeous banquette seating that line the wall upon entry and gives its guest a good proximity to the tap choices offered at bar. Here, modern simply translates to “comfortable seating” amidst the other offerings of traditional wooden tables and the odd splintered chair. This banquette gives a welcoming sit-down or stand-up option for the seasoned drinker, or allows the lightweights to stand up until they have to sit down. It’s as an Irish pub should be; not a whole lot of seating around the bar, but more than enough standing room to mob it should the need arise.