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McNamara's Pub and RestaurantB+Worth Trying

567 23rd St S, Arlington, VA 22202 · Bar, Restaurant · 4.6/5 Google (850 reviews)

Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating

Cozy Irish pub with reliably tasty comfort food, friendly vibe, and TVs for games; occasional service lapses and a few dish inconsistencies to note.

Why it gets a B+ for overall quality

McNamara's Pub and Restaurant delivers solid neighborhood pub dining with strong food quality in classic Irish-American fare and generally friendly service, though inconsistent execution on certain dishes and occasional service lapses during peak times prevent a higher grade. The convenient Crystal City location and reasonable value make it a reliable choice for locals and travelers seeking hearty pub comfort rather than culinary distinction.

Restaurant Summary

The scene reads like your ideal neighborhood Irish pub: warm and bustling when games are on, calmer at off-peak. Servers are often friendly, and the bar team keeps pints moving. One diner summed it up: "Cozy room, hearty plates, and TVs for every game." Expect classic pub comfort more than flash, with portions that match the vibe. In the kitchen, the cooking leans straightforward and comforting—think shepherd pie, Guinness stew, fish and chips, fried pickles, and wings. Many plates hit the spot, especially the stews and pies, while a few items (Reuben, fish fry on off nights) draw mixed notes. Pricing stays reasonable for Crystal City, and the menu reads like a greatest hits of Irish-American pub fare rather than culinary fireworks. Families fare well here thanks to kid-friendly staples like burgers, tenders, mac and cheese, fries, and simple salads. If your crew likes classic, familiar plates, you are set; picky eaters will find easy wins. No dedicated kids menu is mentioned, but the core lineup suits most children without fuss.

At a Glance

What Sets It Apart

What People Love

Points of Concern

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost$28-42 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

Perfect For

Location Insights

Area: Dense mixed-use corridor near Pentagon City/Crystal City with hotels, offices, and apartments; after-work and game-day foot traffic.

Safety: Well-lit, active streets with steady pedestrian flow; generally safe urban environment.

Nearby: Close to hotels, Reagan National Airport, offices, and sports-viewing bars; convenient for travelers and locals.

Crystal CityThe dining environment in Crystal City is diverse, featuring casual pubs, international cuisine, and modern eateries catering to a professional crowd and residents. The area has a lively yet approachable social atmosphere, with many establishments offering after-work gatherings and weekend social spots.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday11:00–00:00 Tuesday11:00–00:00 Wednesday11:00–00:00 Thursday11:00–00:00 Friday11:00–02:00 Saturday10:00–02:00 Sunday10:00–00:00

Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating

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