Nolan's Irish Pub - Cocoa Beach Florida

If you're in Orlando on vacation and head east toward the beaches I recommend stopping for a drink and a bite at Nolan's Irish Pub in Cocoa Beach.  A half block from the ocean, Nolan's is an authentic Irish pub run by your charming hosts, John and Mary Nolan.

As you enter, the bar is to your left adjoining a sitting nook compete with bookshelves, couches, and a fireplace.  Tables are plentiful and there's a bar seating where you can eat and watch the entertainment.  The place is loaded with photos, memorabilia, and autographs, some of which are very old.  I noticed an autographed picture of Eamon De Valera probably in his last years in office.

The menu is not too varied but that's typical for pub fare.  We had Guinness stew, Reuben sandwiches, shepherd's pie, and grilled ham & cheese.  All were very good and served by a charming waitress who was quite affable.  They made us feel quite at home for first time visitors and the place had a relaxed atmosphere but not sleepy.  The patrons were engaged in good conversation but not a rowdy crowd.  We had our teenagers with us and they were quite welcome.

Irish singer Cahir O'Doherty, was there to play at 8:00pm but, although we love his performances, we didn't stay to hear him this time.

The experience was well worth it for my family.  I give the place an "A".  It was clean, well-attended, friendly and clean.  The food, although not a vast menu, was delicious and well-prepared. Prices are what a family can afford.  We didn't drink but the bar was beautiful and had three bartenders working it so service was great.  Altogether, a great experience and I recommend it highly.  A place like this is good for the soul!