Get a Mulligan.
I’d like to issue a disclaimer prior to describing this adventure: There is nothing wrong with sharing a beer or two with friends on a Sunday. Especially in a nearly empty bar. And especially after falling on your face in front of strangers a few hours before hand.
And especially when it’s Spanish Night!
A friend of mine bartends at this quaint little place called Mulligan’s Irish House. I’d been there once before on graduation weekend of 2009 and had a great time, so when I got the call to attend the Sunday night ritual of “Spanish Night,” I knew the bucket list would benefit from the experience.
A view behind the bar at Mulligan's.
A perk of Mulligan's? They have Guiness on tap, enough of a draw for any authentic Irish patrons like Riley.
Though it wasn’t very crowded, the night was definitely filled with Spanish flavor – mainly because of the karaoke. I’d never experienced anything quite like it before; the song selections were entirely in Spanish! Although I am a karaoke superstar, I didn’t dare butcher the language anymore than I normally do when I attempt to say words like “bano” in everyday life. But those who did sing knew the language well, and watching them perform was nice background to the conversation between me and my friends.
On any night, Mulligan’s has a pool table, board games and a dart board for entertainment. And right next to the dartboard is perhaps my favorite part of the small, cozy pub – a fireplace. And it’s not just for decoration; the staff keeps the fire burning all night.
We spent a fair amount of time playing darts as Spanish karaoke was sung in the background.
Speaking of the staff, they are some of the friendliest bartenders I have ever met in my life. Granted, I know one of them (if you go, tip Sarah well!) but even so, it was easy to strike up a conversation with those we had just met.
And though the bar wasn’t crowded, it seemed like the perfect atmosphere to bring a group of your friends – whether large or small – and share in some brews and good conversation without having to shout over obnoxious music or rubbing against random townies.
Mulligan’s Irish House
2146 Hackensack Rd
Poughkeepsie
845.486.9044
Plenty of parking, but be sure to designate a driver, as it’s not close to campus and not a popular cab destination. You must be 21+ to drink!
Kait
