First Posted: 6/24/2013

One glance at even the font that announces the name on the bright red building would lead you to see Kildare’s for what it is: an Irish pub.

The fare caters to those with a penchant for Irish dishes, the drinking is plentiful (bet you don’t realize how many beers they actually carry), and the name itself conjures thoughts of kilts and shamrocks.

But, new this summer, Kildare’s is taking a new direction with their menu and implementing “dishes inspired by the sea:” a “fresh catch” selection.

“A lot of our business during the year comes from the college crowd,” Kildare’s Marketing Specialist Jason Pierce said of the decision to roll out the fresh catch menu, “so in the summer, we wanted to draw more people in with something new, something different.”

Dave Magrogan, the owner of Kildare’s, also owns Doc Magrogran’s in Moosic, decided to take the seafood-heavy formula that works there and transfer it to the Irish pub to try something new.

All the fish that comes in is “fresh frozen,” according to Pierce. There are specific dishes to choose from and a portion of the menu that allows customers to choose from four types of fish, three ways for them to be cooked, six different toppings, and eight different sides.

One of the highlights in the toppings is the pineapple salsa, which pairs wonderfully with pan-seared Mahi Mahi. The crab cakes are light and full of flavor, topped with red pepper corn salsa and Cajun remoulade. The salmon sliders are served on a bun with lettuce, tomato, and tangy mustard mayo, as well as a side of Old Bay fries.

Pierce, who has been the marketing specialist at Kildare’s for a month now, is excited for the restaurant to take things in a new direction, even outside the menu.

There are several nights dedicated to specials, such as the $5 burger Tuesdays, 50 cent wing Mondays, and Brunch and Bloody Mary Bar Saturdays and Sundays. From 7 to 9 p.m. tonight, there will be speed dating for the first time, something that may occur monthly if it goes well. On June 30, a Martinis and Manicures event that includes a $25 happy hour and $10 makeup manicures will start at 2 p.m.