A proper pint of Guiness is built, not poured–and it is with this same

care and precision that McGhee’s Irish Pub was established.

The pour, the top off, the cascade, the presentation; it all contributes to

the rich, smooth character of Ireland’s largest export and Knoxville’s

coolest pub.

“We have the best Guiness in town. We build a pint properly and we are

proud of it,” said bar manager Perry McGraw.

Though the pub has been a part of Knoxville’s night life for two years,

its recent expansion into the old Varsity Inn has earned well-deserved

attention. At the newly enlarged McGhee’s, located on the Strip next to

Walgreen Drug Store, the thick dark flavor of a Guiness mingles and

harmonizes with the pub’s atmosphere.

Charlie Jones, recent owner of the former Varsity Inn, opened the pub two

years ago. “We just wanted a place you could sit, relax and enjoy

yourself,” Jones said. “We try to give the kids what they want–not what we

think they need.”

Of course, there is more to McGhee’s than Guiness. In the true spirit of

Irish pubs, McGhee’s offers a laid-back gathering place to eat good Irish

food, drink all types of beer and just be merry. Where else can you get

bangers and mash or shepherd’s pie at three in the morning? The pub will

also be extending its hours to include late night dining service where

customers can soak up their night of fun with a “Hangover Helper”

breakfast.

In a place where the bars often resemble meat markets, and beer goggles

become part of the nightly uniform, McGhee’s is a refreshing change.

“I don’t allow the boys to hit on the girls,” said Jones, “but the girls

can hit on the guys as much as they want!”

The place really envelopes you; the people, the drinks, the music. The

feeling of family reflects the dedication and love of the McGhee’s staff,

beginning right at the top with Jones.

“I am like the granddaddy here,” said the 65-year-old native of Knoxville.

“But the kids keep me young.”

McGhee’s is one of the few places where customers can–and want–to hang

out with the owner. Jones said it was like a family reunion when the

students came back into town.

“The staff make it really special,” said one of McGhee’s regular

customers. “And being a regular here is a good thing to be. They see you

walk in the door and your pint is already being poured.”

The pub offers something for everyone every night of the week. The top

floor of the pub plays hosts to various local bands and performance groups.

The diverse range of food, entertainment, music and company create the

perfect atmosphere and with the new expansion to include a pool table area,

new bars, a full restaurant and deck bar, McGhee’s promises to build on

their tradition of excellence.

The hustle and bustle of college life stops at the door to McGhee’s. It is

a simple place; no stress, no fanfare, no ruckus–just pure relaxation,

utter enjoyment and great pints of Guiness.

But one must remember that patience is a virtue when it comes to Guiness.

And at McGhee’s, the beer, the people, the music and the atmosphere

definitely make it worth the wait, for it is the perfect place to enjoy the

perfect pint.