Lovin’ The Journey Short Trek – Parson’s Pub

Lovin’ The Journey

Short Treks - Parson’s Pub

By Mark Holloway

An authentic Irish pub in America is fairly common. That is mostly because so many folks have Celtic connections and either want to visit an Irish pub or own one it seems. The word Pub comes from Public House, which a hundred years ago meant only the British government could legally serve ale. This allowed the power brokers to control revenue and the people. This didn’t mean folks across the Atlantic on the Emerald Isle actually obeyed the law. They’re probably the very same hard working immigrants who brought moonshining to these hills. Recently Carol and I made our way home from an adventure-filled long anniversary weekend in Chattanooga. Our good friend Jim Horn told us he and his family had enjoyed Murphy, North Carolina and wondered if we’d ever ventured into the actual town. With enough time left in the late afternoon, we took an unscripted detour into one of the most charming hamlets in these parts. Somebody there really understands city landscaping and the power of street-lined flowers!

The little town doesn’t have a restaurant district. All of downtown IS a restaurant district. I’ve always had a weakness for all things Irish. We’ve been to Scotland and Ireland a number of times. So when my ancestral eyes landed on the Parsen’s Pub, Carol and I knew we’d found the perfect place to cap an amazing celebration weekend. The pub’s door hadn’t even closed behind us before I noticed an upright base carefully set on the floor next to a guitar set on a rack. It was a Monday evening and we were thrilled the restaurant was open and we were in for some live music. Soon Curtis and Kim Jones picked up their instruments having taken a break. Their amazing talent quickly filled every nook of this authentic feeling pub. Mountain Gypsy Music was the perfect pairing for this pub’s vibe. I ordered Shepherds Pie and Carol ordered corn beef and cabbage. It only seemed appropriate to pair it with a pint of Guinness. Chef Josh McQuillen visited with us a while and even served us a special hot chocolate cake with the famed Irish ale in the recipe. Owners Jack and Diane Lange seem to have figured some things out. They’ve apparently assembled the right team. Our server Jake did a really fine job too. I actually know a joke about an Irishman named Murphy. The town of Murphy seemed to beg me to tell the tale to Jake. The Langes instinctively understand the relationship between good live music and superb Irish food. This quant Irish pub, only an hour northwest of here, just might be inviting you for a visit. We’ve experienced many pubs in Ireland. The Parsen’s Pub in Murphy leaves you feeling you are perhaps actually at St. James Gate in Dublin. Carol and I are already planning a return trip...maybe even a weekend visit to explore more of this jewel and nearby outdoor adventures. See you on the trail.

Mark and Carol Holloway are outdoor adventurers and love the thrills of rock climbing and hikes to waterfalls and exploring all of God’s creation. They own PropertyStewards.com and are passionate about delivering excellent care to the homes and property of their clients. For More Information call 706-949-5937