By Erica Hoffman
Recently, I had the pleasure of dining out for the first time in almost 5 months. And by out, I mean outside as it’s our only option these days.
Honestly, I was a little hesitant to go out. Not because of the pandemic. I believe in the use of masks and their efficacy. The reason I was hesitant is because… I’m rusty. I haven’t talked to anyone except my boyfriend and my cat (yep, my cat) for a pretty uncomfortable amount of time. I wasn’t worried about germs. I was worried about conversation. I chose a place I felt had the charm of an effortless good time – The Irish Pub in Atlantic City.
While there, I had the pleasure of meeting and having what turned out to be an electrifying conversation with The Irish Pub’s owner, Cathy Burke.
We spoke about the new restrictions in place. “As I was learning about all the new precautions and mandates, I felt like I was in a bizarre episode of ‘I Love Lucy’,” Cathy said. Hearing this promptly brought images to my mind of Cathy behind a conveyor belt full of masks (instead of chocolate candy – as it was in one of the most memorable I Love Lucy episodes). I quickly learned Cathy was quite the opposite of the famously scatterbrained redhead. She knew what she needed to do and did it.
New staff have been hired strictly to enforce seating limits as well as thorough and continuous cleaning of all areas. There are hand sanitizing stations galore. “We held multiple safety meetings to make sure everyone knew how to work safely, properly and efficiently,” Cathy said proudly. I could tell she’s incredibly concerned with her guests’ safety and is on top of everything.
“We built the patio in 1992, it’s got more of a European feel to it,” Cathy said. It features eye catching Amish built gazebos, wrought iron, ornate brickwork and fascinating ethereal statuaries. If you haven’t seen it, I highly recommend you do, and you’re welcome (in advance).
“People like to sit outside. We’re right next to the Boardwalk and even better, near the ocean,” Cathy added. The patio has withstood hurricanes, floods, derechos, late nights, early mornings, St. Patrick’s Days, Bag Days (a serious celebration at the Irish Pub) and every other day, be it a holiday or otherwise. It can stand the test of time, that’s for sure.
“When we reopened everyone came in and they were very respectful. Everyone used masks, distanced themselves, the whole thing. They just wanted to come back. It was time to feel good again,” Cathy said. I added people would have probably played a game of Simon Says if she had asked. Cathy’s response: “They’re good people, they’re Irish Pub people.”
As I looked around, I swear I heard a collective exhale among the patrons. People were being people again! I was appreciating things I have taken for granted like being together, sans screens and Zoom. It was humbling to watch people reunite as if they were old camp friends greeting each other after a long school year. Suddenly, I don’t know why I was so hesitant, I felt comfortable.
With plans in place if it rains, there are still areas of the patio and bar that remain completely covered over. And while she will close the patio at the mere whiff of imminent danger, she’s not afraid to stay open and the guests aren’t afraid to stay there.
“I’m not afraid of a hurricane! We’d have to pay people to leave the bar over rain. There have been times there has been flooding inside the bar… they stay,” Cathy said with a big grin.
Alas, my time at the Inn had to come to an end. It was time to let Cathy’s next guests enjoy the idyllic patio and the crisp ocean air. I’ve hogged this coveted spot for too long. It was nice to get out, talk, eat and relax. It was just what I needed. I felt safe, and I made a new friend.
I’m glad I chose The Irish Pub to enter back into the world of outdoor dining and seeing other people. I’m glad they were Irish Pub people.
Erica Hoffman was born in Atlantic City and is proud to be writing for Shore Local. She lives in South Jersey and enjoys finding and sharing the lighter side of life.
