Katie O'Briens, York

Official site of Katie O'Briens - katieobriensirishtaverns.com

Down a snickleway to the side of the City Screen in a modern brick building the entrance is towards the riverside terrace. Not hugely different to the others in the chain, a lot of big Guinness harp fonts on the long counter on the right intermingled with T-bars of Heinekin products, I believe they own the chain and the beer range is reminiscent of bars in the Republic. Lots of tiles around the counter and bar back, green of course, supplemented by old casks as tables and loads of old enamel advertising signs. The interior is either older than the outside or some nice architectural features have been brought in. Banquette seating along the edges with stools at casks through the middle. I didn’t check the upper mezzanine (closed) or riverside terrace - too wet! There’s a stage at one end, a few screens and piped music; only some of it Irish. The toilets, full of Guinness tat are in the basement reached down a staircase decorated with Guinness tat. I quite like their places but I wish they sold Beamish instead of Murpheys or bloody Guinness.

Official site of Katie O'Briens - katieobriensirishtaverns.com

Having to fight past the girly groups did nothing to dispel preconceptions, but actually it is a reasonably pleasant medium-sized modern bar overlooking the river, but with traces of old warehouse at the back. The large area of decking outside is undoubtedly popular in nice weather. Just overpriced Neck Oil lurking in the usual euro rubbish on the taps.