You have to be a fan of this restaurant because really, there aren't too many restaurants in Great Falls to begin with but even if that weren't the case this place is pretty cool anyways. I've been here a few times for both lunch and dinner and it has always been pretty safe choice. Lunch time is nice just because there is less of a crowd but don't let a packed house be your reason not to come to this place - servers and bartenders are very attentive. Which says a lot about a huge pub. Not only attentive, they have always been very friendly and have never messed up an order. However, our server on my most recent visit was a little slow (of course except for the part where we asked for the check) and I never got my A1 :( Food is decent...well I can speak for the burgers and the Irish entrees, there are a few things on the menu which look questionable... but I'll be nice and not say anything until I try it! Try their Guinness Beef Stew, it's delicious! Their Irish Whiskey Cake isn't too bad either. Like I mentioned this place is HUGE, lots of indoor seating, a back deck, and outdoor seating in front of the pub (though that might be just during the day for their coffee house.) It's actually really fun when this place gets packed at night and even more when they have people performing! read more

The Old Brogue - Irish Near Me - Great Falls, Virginia

Arrived here on a Friday night not knowing there was a rehearsal dinner going on, taking up half of the restaurant. We waited on the patio underneath a heat lamp and had some apps and drinks so all was not lost. After our hour wait was up, we saw the hostess who messed up and thought we were a party of four instead of six so we had to wait longer. After another short wait, our table was ready...directly in front of the stage where the bad was setting up. Umm, ok, since we're starving, we'll take it. My French onion soup was good and the cheese sandwich with it was decent too. My sister's mac-n-cheese was yummy and everyone else seemed to enjoy their meal. Being under the band's noses ended up not being as loud as we thought it would be and they were actually good. For an Irish pub, this place wasn't bad. And to boot, we had a great time! read more

The Old Brogue - Up close and personal with the band! - Irish Near Me - Great Falls, Virginia

It pains me to write this. The Brogue was my go to place and dependable like the sunrise, but change owners and they change the food. The Ruben a staple, we had it last Sunday and it was tough and uneatable, the kraut uncooked. The cheese steak meat, always moist and delicious tasted bad, the onions raw, it was sad. I've heard similar issues about other entrees from Brogue die hard freinds. I hope, no I pray they go back to the previous suppliers because whoever they're using now to save a buck is going to get them out of business. Which no one in the Falls wants to see happen. read more

The Old Brogue is a quaint little hole in the wall feeling establishment with a pretty good selection of brews and food items. Some things they do better than others like any other place and a few they excel at. Items I would Try first: 1. Fish and Chips. 2. Corned Beef and Cabbage. 3. Irish Banger Rolls. everything else is acceptable pub standards. The Brogue also has live entertainment and great outdoor seating for those stogie puffers. Pitfalls: The brogue gets hikers from Great Falls nearby and their is a "smell" that sometimes "waffs" through the air. Also the snooty great falls locals who think their poo doesn't stink. You'll know them when you see them. The staff seems to always be not happy or sad but right smack dab in the neutral zone. Also make sure that managerial staff hides those tattoos. Best Regards, read more

The Olde Brogue is one of our favorite go-to restaurants. The food and service have always been consistently good. The Fish and Chips, the Quiche w/salad, Fried Chicken, and the Eggs Benedict are some of our favorites. Plenty of good Irish dishes, too. The pub is family friendly. Despite being very busy at times, the service is always attentive and we never feel rushed. Great beer and wine selection. Some of the best local bands in the area perform on Friday/Saturday evenings. read more

Every time I go in this'd place it seems dirty ,tables ,bar are never cleaned I have eaten there a few times the food was just average.The Atmosphere is dark and dingy could use a update.Cars and Coffee was a great time years ago now too many kids and pets if you're into family affair's take your family to the zoo.this is not the place for pets & baby strollers.OUT read more

Great spot to have an outdoor meal/drink. Our table had a table top fire pit, which added some much needed warmth on the cool fall evening. The food, drinks, and services were outstanding! I had the bangers and mash. Sorry no photo as I was too wrapped up in conversation to remember to take photos. read more

Every single time, without fail, The Old Brogue is just delicious. I've been going for almost 2 years now, I've tried a number of things - and it's always fresh and well cooked. read more

I got a chicken cobb salad and French onion soup to go. They have a good system for picking up food and the food itself was good. My cobb salad was fresh and very tasty. read more

Amazing food! Must try the crab avocado crostini appetizer! We've sat outside on the patio both if our visits and its such a great atmosphere. I highly recommend this place. We will be back. read more

Love this place. Great spot. Good food, beer, and atmosphere. Definitely a great falls staple.

This place is fire. Solid small town pub with amazing service and great food/drinks. The only downside is you can't make reservations for their outdoor seating, but that merely goes to show how popular the Brogue is. 10/10 would recommend, especially if you're looking to meet up in a chill environment with a group of friends. read more

Horrible tried to get a Irish full breakfast on St Patrick's day and they wanted me to pay a cover charge to go in and eat! I know today is a special day but those who don't drink shouldn't have to pay a cover charge to eat! Not impressed! read more

Wow a great place and a pleasure to eat here! The wife went old-school with fish and chips, which she liked a lot. I had salmon which was excellent and had this potato block thing which was delicious. But the appetizer was the best - warm crab on top of guacamole on toast (?) never heard of that combo, but it worked! Also very good selection of beers, ales. And very good protocols for covid distancing and even a temperature check at the front for everyone entering. read more

2.5 stars. So I've eaten here before, but we sat on the Katie's Coffeehouse side which feels very warm and quaint. The pub side feels well, like a pub, I guess. It's much darker, dingy and just kind of blah. They didn't seem overly busy, but I guess they were short staffed because the waiters were literally running around and shouting back and forth to each other like it was packed. We waited forever just to get our drinks, and since we had our 3 kids with us, we knew this was a really bad sign. I got the roasted pear and Asiago salad w/grilled chicken, husband got bratwurst sandwich, kids got chicken and jalapeno quesadilla, pasta w/a meatball and fish & chips. I've gotten the salad before and it was amazing, but this time it was totally dry like there was no dressing, and the chicken was overcooked. My husband said his sandwich didn't have much flavor, but our kids food was all pretty good, except for the fish & chips which was outstanding! Super crispy on the outside with a nice thick piece of fish on the inside. Of course, the kids had to use the bathroom, and it was really disgusting. My daughter kept gagging from the smell. IF we come back again, I'd sit outside or on the coffeehouse side only. read more

Friendly service and a great atmosphere! We stopped in for a beer and late lunch after hiking at Great Falls and we were not disappointed.

We had an event here and everything went perfectly. It was outside on the covered patio and Astro turf lounge area. The food was terrific and the setting was magical. We had 60 guests and seemingly every single one mentioned something about how nice/cool/charming the location was. The servers were fast, friendly, and unobtrusive yet they always seemed to be there to take a drink order. Frances was great to work with to set up the event. Need to plan an event? Can't go wrong with the Old Brogue Irish Pub. I am a customer for life. read more

We went in with a group of 10 and ended up getting seated outside next to the heat lamps. Out waitress was Kaitryn and she was AMAZING. She's the best I've ever seen take care of a larger group at a good establishment. Would definitely go again! read more

Ate here tonight. Cheeseburger and fries were very good and service was excellent. The place was full and I'm told they have been in business since 1981! read more

I've been to the Old Brogue twice since Covid, and I think this restaurant was a great find! When you are inside, you feel like you are in a cozy, warm, friendly place, like an old Irish bar. The first time, I sat outdoors on the patio but this time, I sat in the outdoor "tent," enclosed in plastic. It was quiet and intimate. The service was excellent (kudos to the server), with the waitress knowledgeable of the menu. We started off with the fried cauliflower appetizer, and it was terrific. I had a code sandwich with a cucumber salad and my partner had the tuna melt. Both were tasty and well prepared. Oh, there's a wide selection of craft beers, and Guinness, of course. The reason I gave this restaurant a 5 Star is I like the unique design, inside and out, the menu with something for everyone (next time, spaghetti squash); and the place makes me feel relaxed. Prompt service, very good selection, tasty food well prepared, decent prices. read more

I do not attest to be a witness of the musical genre/lifestyle known as Reggae. I do not subscribe to the doctrine of smokin' up, risin' up, and gettin' down, mon. There are no Reggae songs on my Cowon or in my record collection. I care more for Barley Malt than Bob Marley. And yet, I still had a good time watching my friend's band, The Pocket Band, fill this joint with groovy repetitive Jamaican tunes. I cannot say I remember much of the bar's decor. I do believe there was a lot of wood and wood paneling, like any good pub should have. Plus random family crests and boating paraphernalia strung about. The beer lists peaked at about 12 on tap I believe. A decent selection- dogfish 60 minute ($5.50), blue moon ($4.95), and delirium ($6.25 8oz), including some Irish 22oz brews. I wasn't feeling brave that night though. The crowd was definitely older. We sat next to a table of 12, all with peppered or full on gray hair. There were some young people about, but it didn't seem like a hot spot for schmoozin'. What I do remember quite vividly though, were my fish & chips ($12). These were by far the best Fish & chips i've had. Forget Salt & Battery, this cod was so flaky, moist, and delicious I felt like I was eating something "right". The batter was just enough to add texture without overwhelming the fish with oily flavors. The fry was also golden brown... picturesque really. The french fries here were excellent too. Crisp, tender, and not a single burnt end. The portions were pretty substantial, not Cheesecake factory substantial, but I was full and had leftovers. Oh yeah, you can still smoke inside here. read more

As an Irish pub aficionado and having lived briefly in England, I really want to like Old Brogue. Indeed, when I first moved to North Reston in 2002, I was pleased to find this pub nestled quietly behind the post office and an Arby's in Great Falls. I've probably been to Old Brogue at least 25 times during my time here; and, it is decent, but nothing special. The pros: it feels like a pub (at least on the pub side). There is worn wood on the floor and dark walls of the pub side, as well as a small, dingy, yet functional bar. In true pub style, bathrooms are almost an afterthought and are shoe-horned into a narrow hallway. The restaurant side is family friendly, and has a home-style feel. Both sides can get crowded, yet the smells are reminiscent of the comfort food anyone would want from Ireland. The Shepherd's Pie is... basic... as is the stew, beef pie, and boxties. Better options are the bangers and mash, fish and chips, and many of their sandwiches. (See additional food descriptions in the "cons" below.) The wait-staff have been there for years... indeed many, many years... and they are genuinely friendly, but can at times be a bit uninterested and taciturn. It's as if they started with a nice friendly atmosphere, but over the years have devolved into simply going through the motions of yet another busy evening. After all, the place is often so packed out you can hardly move; and there is no room (or apparently a desire) to expand. However, this is more due to the fact that Great Falls simply does not have a lot of restaurant choices nearby... rather than that Old Brogue is the end-all, be-all of pubs. It's a shame... The cons: unlike most true pubs, there are no little snugs in which to feel that cozy true Irish pub vibe and enjoy your pints with friends. Additionally, the bar is way way way too small and consequently very noisy. If you find yourself there during the after-work time-frame or a busy weekend, you will not get a seat in the bar. Rather you'll squeeze into a cramped, high-top table area or sit uncomfortably in wobbly, tiny chairs at small tables near to the bar or near the small raised "stage" area. Of course, then you have basically lost that cozy pub feel... particularly if you are forced into the backroom tent space. Much of their food is just utterly bland -- definitely nothing to write home about. Additionally, they offer a confusing array of pub grub -- trying too hard to blend in local favorites (like crab cake sliders or crab/spinach dip or crab cakes) with awful college bar food or diner favorites (like tasteless nachos, "Irish" potato skins with "Irish?!" jalapenos, "Brogue" wings, "Brogue" tacos, mac and cheese, 5-way chili, or bland chicken quesadillas). It's a shame they don't pare down their menu and offer a focused preparation of some of their more interesting menu items (like warm Irish smoked salmon or steamed mussels or their various meat pies). Additionally, I prefer a properly poured pint of Guinness. Sadly, 70-80% of their pours are in a non-traditional American pint glass (generally used for watered-down lagers) and are served long after the beautiful surge. Sometimes -- on the busiest nights -- they even start pouring Guinness into plastic cups. You have got to be kidding me. Any place that calls itself a true Irish pub knows to use a proper Guinness pint glass and offers a proper pour 100% of the time. Old Brogue is no proper pub... Beyond all of this, Old Brogue is pulled down by its locals who feel they basically own the place. Those who frequent the pub are generally quite rude to those who only occasionally stop in. If this was a one-time phenomenon, I wouldn't mention it; but about 80% of the time friends and I have dropped by, we are generally bullied by a frequent patron into giving up our seat at the bar or in the bar area. When meeting a friend there recently, I found an empty spot at the bar and stared in horror as the barkeep poured off the foam of my Guinness as if pouring a Miller Lite. My friend stood next to me as we hoped a seat would open up nearby. Instead, I literally had a man come up to the bar next to me, order a beer, and say, "You're gonna have to get out of my chair, pal." They guy next to him said, "Yeah, get up and go to your own bar." Nice. Those who claim this is "the most authentic pub" they've "ever been in" have truly never been to a proper Irish pub. For those of us who have scoured the Irish countryside or been to Dublin, Galway, Cork, Kinsale, Cobh, Shannon, etc. this is a far cry from a true, authentic Irish pub. Indeed, we long for that cozy authenticity; yet sadly, we definitely do not find it at Old Brogue. Do not let the crowds fool you into thinking this is a good pub/restaurant. While their food is passible, the only reason they are crowded is because there are simply not very many restaurants in Great Falls. The bottom line is: Old Brogue is a wasted opportunity. If you want a proper pub, definitely look elsewhere! read more

Came here after hiking around Great Falls. After a day of fresh air and exercise, I just wanted to sit down with some fried food and a beer, Old Brogue came through in spades. Great beer selection, and I opted for the aptly named Rugged Trail Nut Brown Ale from the Troegs. It's a real tasty brew, if you ever get the chance. Apparently they only distribute within a 3 hour radius of Harrisburg, PA. I picked the fish and chips for an entree, as it felt it would hit the spot that night, but I wasn't expecting miracles from this meal. Well, it's always good to be surprised and when I bit into the fried cod I think I heard the angels sing. Wonderfully crisp coating that managed not to overwhelm the fantastically fresh fish beneath. Of course a good walk through the woods will work up anyone's appetite, but it was something much more that made me devour that meal. Best F&Cs I've had in recent memory (including a trip last year to London). My girl had no complaints about her corned beef and cabbage (although I'd prefer it in an Irish Burrito at Duffy's), and we decided there was enough room to pack on a dessert. The devil's food cheesecake (for 2), elicited looks and exclamations from the ladies sitting next to us. It's a big, tasty-looking chunk of cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The piece itself has a devil's food layer next to its cheesecake layer, surrounding by a fudge-like frosting with chocolate chips that at first description sounds sickeningly sweet, but which my girlfriend commented, "I don't usually like frosting, but I really like this." I'd agree, it was sweet without being sugary-grainy; just the right amount, not slathered on like spackle. The staff was friendly and the patrons friendlier. Great Falls is lucky to have a place like this, and I'm sure my travels will bring me back here again. read more

Wow, what a great place! The atmosphere is so cozy, and it doesn't feel like the typical fake Irish pub. This one is the real thing! I came this weekend to try their brunch. So as to not be scolded by Neal E (and because it sounded good) I went with the traditional Irish breakfast complete with irish bacon, bangers, potatoes, eggs, black and white pudding, sauteed mushrooms, a broiled tomato and a muffin. A lot of food, and a lot of pigs! It was all very good, but I wasn't crazy about the musky black pudding. It was a great deal for only costing $11 and the $4.95 mimosa was cheap as well, and large too! We initially arrived a few minutes too early and the manager was very friendly and said they needed a few more minutes to get ready. Once they officially opened the entire staff was friendly as can be. It's a shame there weren't many people here because it truly is a gem. Their beer list is pretty extensive, and the atmosphere is unmatched from any other Irish pub I've been to. I definitely plan on returning and trying some more irish fare and maybe seeing some of the live music they feature throughout the week. read more

An excellent place for a lunch or dinner. Really enjoyed the atmosphere and the food. They have a huge menu meaning something for everyone. We had very good service. The list the long time employees on the menu is a nice touch. All around a most enjoyable time. We look forward to coming again. read more

Easiest way to get me to decide on a place to go for brunch? Say these little words "Five dollar mimosas". I'm there Went here with very little great falls knowlege. Using our handy GPS, we were able to get in the general area of the place, but then it took a good 10 minutes to find the restaurant in the crazy shopping complex. We just drove around until we saw more cars! We got there slightly before 11 (which is when they open) so we had to wait in the coffee shop next door. I was pleased that i was able to bring in my coffee from next door when we were finally granted admission. The decor is very much like what you would see in a pub in ireland. It was much more authentic than many places in the area . The staff was super friendly and right on point with bringing out drinks and food. The brunch menu is not nearly as extensive as their regular food menu, but it had something for everyone. I got the exact thing i wanted... an omelet with onions, peppers and cheese. It even had both green and red peppers!. I was very pleased. The potatoes that came with the meal were excellent. I know... weird thing to like about ta place, but they were simple and delicious. The mimosas were very good and very hearty! Plus my water came with a purple straw. I was excited about that :) So while i avoided eating the typical irish food (ie blood pudding... ewe!) this place has it. They also have some really good beers on tap! I would definitley come back here for a beer or two and to try their shepherd's pie or other non scary irish cuisine! read more

Me and the Missus have visited this place at least 6 times in the last year or more. Talk about unreliable service! Let me hit the high a low points in my memory leading up to the worst event. Our first visit was during the winter. I was looking for some good, warm apple cider and a fireplace for us to dine by. We picked this place as it seemed like it might fit the bill from my Better Half's memory. It was perfect. We got there just as they opened the "Snuggery" section and got seated first at a two-top right next to the fireplace. The cider was great, the potato skins were great and the Cottage Pie was out of this world (first time I'd ever had it)! The Missus had the fish and chips and also liked them very much. They would also become a favorite of ours. That night, if I never returned, it would have been a 5 star rating. Sadly, we did return. The second time, the food was still top shelf & the Snuggery was nice. A little crowded, but nice. The service that night was HORRID. Alas, the Old Brogue's main weakness was on full display that night. The waiter we had that night was absent minded and apparently uninterested in providing service. Refills were slow in coming and we waited for what seemed an eternity for the check. The guy had no personality and really did not inspire a good feeling in his customers. The next time we went, the service continued to slide. We got there at 5:00 (when the snuggery was supposed to open) but they refused to seat us in it. "We haven't decided who's going to be serving in there tonight." they told us. So we'd have to sit in the bar if we wanted to eat. Kinda seems like that decision should have been made, you know, before the place even opened for the day? Maybe? The food was still great, but the atmosphere blew. Surrounded by blaring TV's and loud drunks. We even watched amazed as some 50-ish guy sitting by himself was hitting on the 20-ish year old waitress. Asking her, "So what time do you get off tonight?" and, "Want to do something later?" Eeewwwwww. Strike One. The next time we visited the snuggery section was completely closed so someone could have a private party. Eat in the bar again? I think not. Strike Two. We stayed away for some time, but ventured back there a couple weeks ago for some late night snacks after an evening in D.C. We were surprised to see the front courtyard area open and serving at 11:30 @ night, so sat down and had a really good meal. The Missus ordered their Chili for an appetizer and raved about its yumminess. I stuck with my old standby, potato skins and cottage pie. I was not disappointed. Impressed with our experience we went back a week later. The snuggery was closed, the courtyard area was closed, but they had an add-on deck in the back so we sat there. The tables and chairs are cheap plastic k-mart specials and very uncomfortable. We both ordered the Chili and enjoyed it immensely. I remember a couple sitting behind us there. They were, late 50's, and obviously not hurting in these tough economic times. The gentleman at the table was getting quite upset as he waited and waited and waited for his order. I don't know the whole story, but he was pretty upset by the time his food finally arrived. Should have taken this as an omen. The last time we visited, and I mean "LAST" as in "NEVER AGAIN", we showed up on a Friday afternoon. The front courtyard tables were all furnished with table cloths, utensils and condiments, so it looked like they were open for seating. We picked a table and the Missus went inside and asked the bartender if they would serve us out there. "Oh yes! Someone will be out in a second to take your order", was the reply. We waited 15 minutes. The Missus went back in to used the facilities and on her way back out, stopped a 20-ish waitress and asked if we could get service out front. "Sure! Someone will be out in a moment", the waitress replied. 20 more minutes rolled by. Staff were coming and going, unloading a car of party supplies. One staff member even came out and changed the garbage in the waiter station, but NOT ONE OF THEM gave us the time of day. Strike Three. It is a sad story as the food at the Old Brogue is really good. But their service is terrible. This last time, all they had to do was tell us that they currently weren't serving out front and directed us to another table. Instead they flat our lied to the Missus TWICE. What was the joke? Were they inside watching and sniggering wondering how long we'd wait or how many times we'd keep asking? Heck with them. The prices we pay for good dining in Norther Virginia warrant better service than this and better respect. read more

I've stopped in many times over the years because of the FF, and while it's not the kind of place I would go to, I enjoy the food and am impressed with their beer menu. In the past I've liked this place because they had a no smoking section. Unfortunately, that section is now a coffee shop. We stopped in late on Friday night and, to avoid the smoke, sat in the enclosed patio by the fire to have some drinks. I was pleasantly surprised to see they offered the Chardonnay I so completely loved when I tried it in Georgia at a restaurant. If you like Chardonnay, I would recommend you try a glass of Sonoma Cutrer ($10.00). As for food, I can recommend the Shephard's Pie, their burger with cheese, and the weekend brunch menu. read more

The funny thing about this place is that for me it has much more of the feel of an English Village or Country Pub than anything else. Maybe it's the friendly staff and all the regulars, maybe it is the bucolic location of Great Falls, maybe it is all the twisty rooms and corridors inside or the fact that it is very family friendly. Great pint of Guinness, decent food, lovely people. Some fantastic other beers on tap and a great family history of the owners - and all the staff - make this a phenomenal spot. I just wish they would serve the breakfast all day and night. read more

The Old Brogue is my favorite bar, without question. I've been going there for 3 years now, and I can confidently say that I'll continue to do so for many years ahead. Truthfully, the only thing that would keep me from going there would be an out-of-state move. Before I get to the bar scene, allow me to discuss the restaurant. Decked out in dark brown wood and irish green, the place looks like a proper pub, not one of the myriad "pretender" pubs that litter the country. It's a long, skinny room, with bathrooms that dart out on the side in a small hallway, just like the real thing. The decor is one of a dozen reasons this place simply shines. Several nights a week they have live music, as well. I've only ever seen one or two bad acts there, so you'll be in the clear no matter what. Thursday nights are open mic nights, which are always enjoyable. As for the menu, I've tried almost everything on it and never been disappointed. All the standard American bar food is represented: burgers, wings, nachos, turkey clubs, etc. Among the basic choices, the burgers are particularly good, as are the accompanying fries. What's really awesome food-wise however, are the Irish entrées. Bangers & mash, Guinness beef pie, corned beef and cabage, and beef bourguignonne boxty- all amazing, especially the boxty. If you've never tried a boxty before, look no further: the Brogue has the best I've ever tried. For an appetizer, I recommend the banger rolls. They are bite-sized banger (sausage) cuts wrapped and baked in a puff pastry, then served with ground mustard. Just talking about the dish now makes me want a plate of them. Also worth special note are the fish & chips. Many places serve fish & chips, but very few do them as wonderfully as the Brogue does. Fresh cod in a tasty batter, then fried to golden perfection, they are the best I've yet tried. If you'd like a sandwich instead, they offer it in that form as well- it's just as tasty as the traditional preparation. And of course, the fries are great as well. Moving beyond the food, however, you find the Brogue's true brilliance: it's bar. Believe me when I say that I've been to the vast majority of bars in the Reston area, and when it comes to the best of the best, nothing else can touch the Brogue. The drinks are perfectly made, the prices are some of the best in the tri-state area, the bartenders are all really fun and pleasant people, and the atmosphere is unbeatable. I've been here enough now that I have the distinct pleasure of being friends with all of the bartenders, and I couldn't be happier about it. No matter how busy it gets (and it can get very busy), they always manage to be personable and friendly. Stop by once and you'll see for yourself. They're also extremely talented mixologists- if they have the ingredients, they'll be able to whip it together right away. I've discovered several new brands of scotch based on their recommendations- they truly are the best. However, the best aspect of the Brogue is it's atmosphere. It manages to be a local hangout, meet market, business gathering, youngster haunt, and family restaurant all at the same time. The crowd is always diverse: no matter who you are or what kind of mood you're looking for, you'll fit right in here. The outdoor patio is great as well, especially during the warmer months. It's great to have dinner and drinks outside while you watch the sun go down and stars come out. There is also one table with a fire pit at the center that makes for a fantastic nighttime hangout. I love the Brogue more than I ever have any bar. Stop by and you'll see why. read more

Have been going here for about 30 years, off and on. Food is passable for bar food. Tonight, there was a massive failure in charging us for our meal. Our total check, plus tip, was around $75. On the way home, my phone notified me that a charge of about $110 was charged against my account. I called the restaurant, and talked to the manager, and eventually, the owner, Mike. They acknowledged the error, and said that my bank statement would eventually be reconciled to the appropriate charge. I was waiting for some acknowledgement that they would void the original charge, and make the proper charge to my account. No deal. It was an error made by the server (who was good), apparently in combining two checks. I was going to have to go back and check to see that only the appropriate charge was made. No deal for me, but I obviously will. This place moved way down my list on places to patronize. read more

They're only getting two because they can pour a Black and Tan properly. We walked in the cafe side first on accident and an employee eating said if we want anything to eat or drink to go next door because they're closed. Here's an idea: Close that door. So we walk to the pub and there isn't a sign regarding seating so after standing around a few minutes and getting our own menus we grabbed seats at the bar. We sat at the bar at least 5 minutes before the bartender wandered over to tell us that we needed to move because she had two guys sitting there but they were out smoking. There were no glasses, no coats, no coasters...no indication that anyone was there. So I said we sat here because no one else seemed to be working. She just said sit where ever. Picked a table and sat there another 5 minutes waiting for service before we walked to the prep area to ask for drinks. Why we stayed is beyond me, but I'm a bit of a masochist. Eventually we got beer and the ginger fried calamari and Irish banger rolls. Both came out quickly and were full of the flavor. The calamari was fresh and you could really taste the ginger. I was really into the mustard with the banger rolls. My boyfriend got the Dublin steak sandwich with sweet tater fries and in an Irish pub on St. Paddy's weekend I got the corned beef and cabbage. I was oh so greatly disappointed. The corned beef was lean, but lacked real flavor. The cabbage was so beyond bland that for the first time ever I added salt and pepper to a dish. Headed to grab something else now. Wonder if our server noticed we left since she didn't notice us during our meal. The manager Jim was on it. He was very apologetic and seemed involved. Kudos to at least one person doing their job. read more

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The Irish whiskey cake . . . Oh. My. Gosh!!!! But I digress... This is a good old Irish pub in Great Falls. The atmosphere is what you'd expect -- dim lighting, dark wood and dark greens everywhere. Low ceilings also lending to a warm, embracing feeling, as does the friendly crowd and the superb staff -- from the bartenders to the waitstaff -- which is knowledgeable, welcoming, and as attentive (or not) as you'd like them to be. The food is good -- I didn't find the quality particularly out-of-the-ordinary (not that that's a bad thing), but a few menu items have bangers in place of ground beef which adds a nice smoke and saltiness. And the prices are about average for a pub in this area. All that aside, the Irish whiskey cake and Jameson ice cream is OUTSTANDING. It deserves five stars in its own right. This is the reason I'll be back many more times. Even without the dessert, though, visit the Old Brogue for the warm, friendly staff and the atmosphere. But get the dessert. :-) read more

the hostesses where very welcoming and the atmosphere is classic irish pub realness. however, our first waitress did not keep up this good energy so we kindly asked for another and our replacement was more than kind. we where a little surprised by the service time compared to the abundance of waiters they had, however the food was delish! read more

We went here for St. Patty's Day and it had a fun, lively atmosphere. Located in Great Falls, VA it's a bit of a drive out of the way. Obviously, it's a suburban vibe but just like any other Irish Pub themed spot. They had tents set up and dinner option if you had made prior reservations. The crowd was a mixture of old and young. The good thing is you don't have to worry about fighting ridiculous crowds or driving around for an hour to find parking like St. Patty's downtown. It's fun for a low-key time. Not sure about the food because we didn't eat there...but I believe it's popular with the locals. I kept hoping to run into some old familiar faces since Great Falls was my stomping ground back when I lived in the area growing up. But alas, no Langley HS reunion as I had hoped. Boo! read more

Was looking for a place with outdoor seating to enjoy a breezy summer day. Found The Old Brogue only about 10 or so minutes from Reston and was excited that the front patio is dog friendly. Due to the perfect weather, the patio had a short wait, which we spend walking our dog around. (Note: many areas have "no dogs beyond this point" signs.) After about 10 minutes, we were seated at a comfortable outdoor table in the front patio with an umbrella for shade. A nearby table was recently vacated and we were able to snag their dog bowl for water. We enjoyed a few pints of Guinness, appetizer, gazpacho, and a tarte flambé. The tart was exceptional. Tender crust, lovely balance of flavors. Gaspacho perfect for a summer starter--well seasoned and fresh. We'd pass on the banger roll appetizer next time. Service was pleasant though a tad sluggish. We'd recommend Old Brogue Pub for anyone looking for a cute getaway from the abundance of cold, impersonal town-center experiences in this area. read more

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:::Commencing drunken karaoking::: "Sometimes you want to go Where everybody knows your naaaaaame, and they're always glad you caaaaaaaame." This is my neighborhood watering hole, and the song just fits. Granted, no one knows my name here - but that's just because I obviously don't drink enough. +++Note to Self: Must start working less and drinking more.+++ The Old Brogue is one of the few remaining non pretentious bars in NoVa. There's no gimmick, and the yuppies/hipsters are pretty minimal. They seem to multiply around the time college kids come home from school though, so be warned. Parking is pretty plentiful, although on a busy night you might have to walk some. Speaking of busy nights St. Pa tricks Day and Halloween are total no go days for me. The bar becomes more of a zoo and does not convey the true feel of the bar. For a true experience come on a random day. The Brogue has a great dark pub feel. On most nights there's live music, sometimes Irish, sometimes not, but usually pretty damn good. One of the bands I can vouch for is the Pocket Band, they play some great Reggie music. "Reggae?" you say, "At a pub?". Yup, and it's GOOD! They have a selection of beer on tap, I'm not sure if it's decent or not because I stick to the Woodchuck Hard Cider which they have on tap here. Mmm mmm good! Food is pretty damn good too, far better than most pubs. The burgers are juicy and delicious and discounted on one of the weekdays, not too sure which one though (maybe Monday). Service is good here as well. Your waiter will probably have worked at the Brogue for quite some time, not a high turnover rate. Prices are very reasonable for the quality of food, service, and experience in general. So, if you're in the mood for a beer, burger, some great company, and great music then head on down to the Brogue. Oh, and give me a call so I can join and they can start knowing my name! read more

Look at the back of the menu and see how long the employees have worked her. That says it all. Many people go there and stay for decades. Food is spot on and beer is cold. I sat next to Oliver North a few years ago at the bar. No one bothers you and the place is cozy. I am a huge fan and never miss an opportunity to go have a pint. read more

This was a nice little restaurant, a little hard to get to because it's hidden but it was well worth it! The menu was extensive, tons of Irish favorites as well as American food. They had a whole page of appetizers that all looked really good! We settled on Potato Skins (a family favorite) and they were so good! Somehow they had a soft inside but a super crispy outside, it was so good I could have just had that for dinner. My dinner was okay, I think I ordered poorly but the others at my table loved their dinner. I would defiantly go back again. BONUS: We sat outside in the middle of November, its actually an enclosed space with fireplaces, and quieter than the pub-scene inside, very nice patio area and warm too. Another side note, the music was awful, but I guess all Irish music is! read more

Ah, the Old Brogue ''Irish'' pub. I'm from Ireland, this pub looked very ''Irish'', however the hospitality wasn't. It was the 2nd of June, 2007 of which is my birthday and I had just turned 21. Having ordered my first legal drink in America and having been asked for ID and wished a happy birthday I wasn't even giving a free drink. For a pub that calls itself Irish they haven't realized that a real Irish pub would give a free drink on someone's birthday. Anyways besides that, I liked the vibe of this pub. Its situated in a nice countryside atmosphere and the pub itself was busy. I liked their drink menu as well as the food menu (although I didn't order any so I'm not sure if its good). Would I go back to this pub? Probably not, especially when its my birthday. read more