While there are enough shamrocks and Guinness posters to class this as an Irish pub, the compulsory faux Irish cheer is supplemented by some unusual activities.
The one thing the Dan O'Connell Hotel (or The Dan, as it's affectionately known to regulars) has in abundance is charm - arguably a rare thing for an Irish pub in Melbourne. Rather than some kind of faux Irish nightmare, where you're encouraged to enjoy the marketing more than the atmosphere, The Dan offers so much more than just pints of Guinness. Of course, it still goes nuts come St Patrick's Day, when they take over the neighbouring park and put on an extravaganza that would make Bono blush.
By and large, The Dan is a place to get a good pint of your favourite beer and listen to quality local bands playing live every weekend. Or, if you're more inclined towards relaxed artistic pursuits, every Saturday you can listen to live poetry readings. Now, that's something you won't find at any old carbon-copy Irish pub.
To be truly emblazoned in the hearts and minds of The Dan's regulars, any serious drinker has to consider the 100 Pint Club. Membership simply involves showing up each Sunday to clock up 100 pints of Guinness or Coopers. Of course, even without the 100 Pint title, you're sure to be part of the furniture by the time you're through.
Mark Gambino
