7 Shocking Secrets And Must-Try Dishes At Shannon's On Pine Irish Pub & Sports Bar In Long Beach
Step into the heart of Downtown Long Beach, and you'll find an institution that is far more than just a place to grab a pint. Shannon's on Pine Irish Pub & Sports Bar, located on the bustling Pine Avenue, is a vibrant, multi-faceted entertainment hub that has evolved from a beloved local bar into a cornerstone of the city’s nightlife, offering everything from classic pub grub to a full-blown event space. This article, updated for
Far from a simple neighborhood watering hole, Shannon's on Pine is the flagship venue of a larger family-owned enterprise known as Shannon's Corner, which has anchored the Long Beach entertainment scene for over two decades. Whether you’re a die-hard sports fan, a cocktail connoisseur, or just looking for the best happy hour in the 90802 zip code, Shannon’s offers a dynamic, friendly atmosphere that embodies the spirit of a true Irish pub mixed with the energy of a premier California sports bar.
The Evolution of a Long Beach Landmark: A Brief Biography
The story of Shannon's on Pine is intrinsically linked to the vision of its founder, Ron Hodges, and the vibrant history of Long Beach, California. The establishment is a powerful example of how a local business can grow, adapt, and become a multi-venue entertainment destination.
- Original Founding: The journey began over 20 years ago when Ron Hodges first established the original Shannon's Pub on Second Street in the Belmont Shore district. This smaller, 1,300 sq. ft. bar quickly became a local hit.
- The Pine Avenue Flagship: The current and more expansive location, Shannon's on Pine Irish Pub & Sports Bar, is nestled in the historic Downtown Long Beach area, situated at 209 Pine Ave. This location acts as the central pillar for the entire operation.
- The Shannon's Corner Empire: Shannon's on Pine is the anchor of a family-owned group of businesses known collectively as Shannon's Corner. This group has expanded to include several distinct venues, each offering a unique experience.
- Sister Venues (Topical Authority Entities): The other entities under the Shannon's Corner umbrella include The Carvery (a dining concept), At The Top (a popular event space), Secret Island (a Polynesian-inspired Tiki Lounge), and Top Floor Events (the dedicated management for large gatherings).
- Management: The operations are overseen by a dedicated team, with individuals like senior manager Christian Skipworth helping to ensure the pub caters to a diverse crowd, particularly in its sports programming. Manager Brian Smith has also commented on the pub's role in the slow but steady rebound of Downtown Long Beach business.
This history shows a commitment not just to a single bar, but to creating a comprehensive nightlife experience in the heart of the city.
Beyond the Pint: Shannon’s Must-Try Menu and Signature Dishes
While the "Irish Pub" moniker suggests a focus on Guinness and traditional fare, Shannon's on Pine stands out by offering a diverse menu that blends classic pub grub with unexpected, craveable specialties. It is this commitment to quality food that elevates it above the typical sports bar. The menu offers a full range of options perfect for lunch, dinner, or late-night snacking.
The Culinary Entourage: Signature Dishes and Pub Favorites
If you're visiting Shannon's, there are a few menu items that have achieved legendary status among Long Beach regulars. These are the dishes that build the pub's topical authority in the local food scene:
- The Blow-Your-Mind Pastrami Chili Cheese Fries: This is arguably the most famous dish on the menu. Described by locals as a "blow-your-mind" experience, this elevated take on chili cheese fries is a must-order and a perfect game-day snack.
- Delicious Wings: A staple for any sports bar, Shannon's wings are highly popular and come in various flavors, making them a go-to choice for groups.
- The Blackened Mahi BLT Sandwich: An excellent example of the menu's diversity, this sandwich offers a fresh, flavorful alternative to standard pub fare, appealing to those looking for a lighter, high-quality meal.
- Appetizer Highlights: The menu also features a sophisticated Charcuterie & Cheese Plank, a surprising find in a sports pub, alongside more traditional Mexican dishes like a simple yet satisfying Quesadilla.
The pub also offers a wide selection of Burgers, Nachos, and Salads, ensuring every palate is catered to. The combination of classic comfort food and unique, high-quality dishes is a significant factor in the pub's strong 3.9 out of 5-star rating based on thousands of visitor reviews.
The Ultimate Sports Hub and Happy Hour Secrets
Shannon’s reputation as a premier Sports Bar is well-earned. The venue is equipped with multiple flat-screen TVs, ensuring that every seat in the house has a view of the action. Unlike many sports bars that cater to a single team, Shannon’s prides itself on being a neutral territory, welcoming fans of all teams, especially during the NFL season. This inclusive approach creates a vibrant, electric atmosphere that is perfect for watching major sporting events.
Unlocking the Best Deals: Happy Hour
For those looking to enjoy the atmosphere without breaking the bank, Shannon's offers one of the best Happy Hour deals in Downtown Long Beach, running daily from 4 PM to 6 PM. This is a crucial time to visit, not only for the atmosphere but for the unbeatable drink specials.
- Domestic Beer Deals: Patrons can enjoy deeply discounted $3 Bottled Domestic Beers.
- Well Drinks and Cocktails: Well Drinks and select Cocktails are also available at the $3 price point, though other specials often include $6 wells and margaritas.
- Draft Beer Savings: Many visitors report deals offering $2 off all draft beers during the happy hour window.
While the happy hour primarily focuses on drink specials, it's the perfect time to pair a discounted beverage with one of the pub's signature appetizers, such as fries or chips & salsa w/guac.
The Nightlife Nexus: Shannon's Corner and Sister Venues
To fully appreciate Shannon’s on Pine, you must understand its role as the gateway to the larger Shannon's Corner entertainment complex. This connection provides a massive boost to the pub's topical authority and variety, ensuring there is always something happening on Pine Avenue.
The pub itself is known for its own live music and lively atmosphere. However, the real depth of the nightlife experience comes from its sister venues located within the same complex:
- At The Top: This dedicated event space hosts larger public events, themed parties, and live performances, such as the popular "R & Brunch: Holiday Pajama Jam." It offers a high-end venue experience right above the pub.
- Secret Island: For a completely different vibe, the Secret Island is a Tiki Lounge specializing in Polynesian-inspired cocktails and island-style live music. This venue provides a unique, escapist atmosphere far removed from the sports bar below.
- Top Floor Events: This entity manages the sophisticated spaces within the complex, catering to private parties, corporate events, and large gatherings, utilizing the historic building's unique architecture.
This ecosystem means that a night out at Shannon's on Pine can easily transition from watching a game with a craft beer to sipping a tropical cocktail at Secret Island or dancing at an event at At The Top, all within the same historic building on Pine Avenue.
Essential Tips for Visitors
Shannon's on Pine remains a vibrant and essential part of the Downtown Long Beach landscape. The establishment has navigated challenges, including the city's temporary closure of Pine Avenue for parklet expansions, demonstrating its resilience. Manager Brian Smith noted that while the business environment has changed, the pub continues to be a go-to spot for the community.
For first-time visitors, the best advice is to arrive early for happy hour (4 PM - 6 PM), try the Pastrami Chili Cheese Fries, and check the Shannon's Corner website for any special events happening at At The Top or Secret Island. Parking is available nearby, with the Landmark Square Parking Lot being a common suggestion for convenient access. Whether you are a local or just passing through, Shannon's offers a genuine piece of Long Beach culture, blending Irish hospitality, American sports enthusiasm, and a diverse, high-quality menu.
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