As a semi-retired drama queen, if an opportunity arises for me to get my hands on a microphone and belt out a song (or five) outside of the confines of my shower curtain; you can bet your bottom dollar euro that I’ll be taking it. And somewhere that’s recently landed on London’s social scene is serving me up that opportunity – and then some. Molly Mc’s is the shiny new singing pub that’s just arrived in Southwark, ready to bring the surreptitious spirt of a traditional Irish shebeen straight to the heart of London.
Founded by Irish brothers, John and Ryan Mc Elhinney, alongside their father Jack, the family-run Molly Mc’s is an ode to their grandmother – who was affectionately known as (you guessed it) Molly. The Mc Elhinney brothers have already made quite a name for themselves, having seamlessly blended the pub cultures of Ireland and London in their other London-based spots. And Molly Mc’s will be no different.
Inspired by traditional Irish singing pubs, Molly Mc’s will ooze care-free, convivial and cosy vibes. Boasting old-school charm, rustic character, reclaimed vintage decor and a whole host of Molly-based memorabilia to honour the life and legacy of the lady who inspired the space; Molly Mc’s feels personal, familial, and drenched in history.
The space boasts a main bar (that will hold live trad music sessions three times a week), four private singing rooms (for Londoners to make their own sweet music), and two intimate snugs (complete with games to play and a private window to order drinks through). Molly Mc’s will evoke the charm of Ireland’s secret drinking dens of days gone by, and will strive to fulfil Molly’s famous motto: “it’s a matter of everyone going home happy”
The drinks menu at Molly’s will be filled to the brim. This is an Irish bar, after all. The cocktail menu will pay homage to the very best Irish distilleries and spirits and they’ll also be serving up perfectly-poured pints of Guinness. On the food menu, there will be an array of Thai dishes – honouring the tradition of Thai food being served in London pubs. Molly Mc’s will also be dishing up delicious Irish ‘spicebags’ (spiced fries, popcorn chicken, and hot peppers).
Molly Mc’s has officially opened under the Southwark Arches, and makes for the perfect spot to head to if you want to eat, drink, and be oh so merry. We’ll definitely raise a glass to that.
Find out more and plan your visit to Molly Mc’s here.