John Kavangh The Gravediggers ..A story of food & Pints

First instalment for 2016..on John Kavanagh The Gravediggers.

The story…or stories

What is it about this pub?....

 There is something special about John Kavanagh’s Public Bar, and it always makes an impression.

What is it that makes this bar so special? One thing is the hum of conversation, at a time when our senses are competing with technology and gadgets, the bar is a haven. Conversation is king. With no television on the premises or piped music, there has never been a public phone just the buzz of chat and laughter entices you to join in on the conversation. Newcomers are welcome as the ‘locals’ our regulars are a friendly bunch and they love to tell a tale or two, the locals also love a new audience, they are a big part to the success of this old Dublin pub.

It’s often hard to believe that this bar is real. It has starred as a backdrop to many films and it’s bar has propped up many a Hollywood Star, but what happens in Kavanagh’s stays in Kavanagh’s unless you owe a ‘round’ of drinks then that will be news!

However this bar is not a movie or stage set, this is a working bar. A bar that has seen many, many years. The dusty, often patched up old interior is genuine having evolved. The tables are a mix of make do as are the knocked together benches. This isn't a wealthy Victorian bar of stain glass and gilt mirrors this was and is a workingman’s bar of straight talking and creamy pints. Today there is a great generational mix of customers and people from all walks of life each trading tales and stories. This is not a Retro or Reproduction bar, it is what it is. It is a survivor, John Kavanagh’s survives because it is very much loved not just by the Kavanagh family but by the locals that take great pride in this most Dublin of bars. The notes scribbled in our visitors books also give a glimpse into the impression this bar makes on those that find themselves at Kavanaghs.

There are many tales and stories surrounding this bar, and even more versions depending on who is telling it. Nestled in a quiet square next to one of Dublin’s oldest cemeteries, if it wasn't for the cars, one would think you were back in time. Welcome to John Kavanaghs, trading since 1831.

I will do my best to capture some of that magic this bar and it's surroundings has, a little bit of history, a few recipes...a few stories, and some of the faces that makes it special.  

A quiet Pint in the bar, before the hordes.

'Josie'-Chef Ciaran's daily mode of transport. 

Often called the 'Wake Table' as it's a good size to lay a coffin..

This is me, selling Fresh Oysters, perfect with a Pint.

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