Shamrock Lounge & Package. Leesburg, Florida.

1120 West North Boulevard

Guinness Tag: $2.75 (Miller Lite) | Overall Rating: 3.05

Today's Dedicated Pint: Johnny Rockets

I might be the only person on this planet that has ever stepped foot inside the Shammy Lounge in Leesburg, Florida for the sole purpose of experiencing quality Irish culture. Did I know this place wouldn't be the most authentic Irish Pub out there before stepping in? Of course. I'm not an idiot. However, I made it a goal to plop my potato inside every Irish Pub in America, and I certainly can't achieve that mission by driving past a little bar with an etching of an Irish hooker on the door covered in clovers called the "Shamrock Lounge" and NOT go inside for a quick one. Needless to say, when I saw the exterior of this place, I knew I had to indulge, and I was stoked. I love places like these. It's definitely one of those spots that a lot of people look at as they drive past and think, "I wonder what goes on in there." Not everyone is coming in here, which is more the reason for me to come inside. I hate most people, so it works.

We were actually on our way to a different Pub a few miles down the road called McCracken's when we discovered this one. We found the place by mistake. I call these Pub experiences "Suprise Pubs," and they're typically always the most exciting, being that you had no intention of being there when you woke up that morning. It's like grabbing a quick pint in the middle of the workday when you're not supposed to; it might not be responsible, but that's what makes it fun. Besides, who gives a rat's nuts?

The Shammy Lounge reminds me a bit of Irish Bob's up in Youngstown, Ohio. It's grungy, it's not for everyone, and you'll find yourself in some trouble if you act like an ignoramus. If you act right, then you can certainly have a great time. I walked in on a hot and sunny afternoon after purchasing some quality goods at a Bealls down the street. As soon as you enter the building, you are greeted by a Golden Tee machine, a fireplace (for those cold Floridian nights), a plastic dart board, and the green lit horseshoe bar. The bar counter has HUGE elbow cushions and I love it. The barstools are comfortable as well. The interior of the place is incredibly dark, but it fits. You can't be a "lounge" and be bright as tits. Nobody patroning this place is looking like Ryan Gosling or Sydney Sweeney, so nobody should be exposed in any form of light for everyone to see. Don't get my words twisted, though, as the 8 or so people who were in here during my visit were fun, chatty Cathies. I like this type of crowd. They're blue collar, down to earth, politically incorrect, and a lot more fun than anyone at Applebee's. They'll be your best friend if you behave the right way, but they'll kick your ass if you don't act right.

There's a printed sign on the wall that says, "No fighting, if you do, you're barred for 30 days, no exceptions." I think it's hilarious. Most Pubs will ban you for life if you pick a fight. Here at the Shammy Lounge? Eh, just disappear for 30 days, let those raccoon eyes recover, and bring a case of beer for the fridge next time you come in and we'll call it even. It's a bit of a weird thing to regulate, too. Let's say someone got barred for fighting, and they show up for a night out on the 29th day of the ban: do you let them in a day early? Or, do you tell them to kick rocks for another 12 hours? Is there a list with people's names and how much time is remaining on their interdiction? It's kind of silly, and I love it.

The drinks are cheap here, and they do have beer on tap. I didn't snag a Guinness here today. It's actually the first Pub I've ever been to where I didn't order a Guinness off the rip. If you have a problem with that, then you can take another look at that sign on the wall and prepare to be shunned from this wonderful place for the next month alongside me, because we're fightin'!

The place has a small stage for live music, a good area for shooting pool, and an open space for dancing/hanging out/standing/being a jackass. It opens at 10 in the morning and doesn't close til' 2. They offer $3 Madras on Mondays, but something tells me you're getting poured a vodka even worse than Mr. Boston, and I bet the orange juice is freshly squeezed from the orange tree behind the dumpster. I'm kidding, this place doesn't pour poor drinks. Honestly, places like these typically have better drinks than the bland sports bar around the corner that all the "normal people" flock to. Keyword, "typically," because that's certainly not always the case.

They do have a functioning toilet with its own stall and door, allowing you to take relief in peace. The sinks have running water, although I bet some of you would want to grab a PEP shot after exiting these bathrooms. I'm taking my chances, though. Momma didn't raise no chook.

Like I said, this place isn't for everyone, and I don't think it takes a rocket scientist to understand that. If you come here dressed in Easter Sunday clothes and expect to order a fine glass of white wine and natter with the upper class, then you might be a certified moron. This place should have a sign by their door that says, "Póg mo thóin." Is it great Irish Pub? No. Is it a great spot to have a blast? It depends on the day, but you're damn right it is.

I'm happy to say that my ass has been inside the Shamrock Lounge & Package of Leesburg, Florida. Will you ever find me in here ever again? I doubt it, but you never know! I wouldn't be opposed to it. I'm off to McCracken's. Slainte!