- Attraction: Kelleher’s Irish Pub & Eatery
- Location: 619 SW Water St, Peoria, IL 61602
- Industry: Irish Pub
- Website: https://www.kellehersonwater.com/
Twenty-four years ago, something magical happened along Peoria’s historic riverfront when Kelleher’s Irish Pub first opened its doors in May 2001.
What makes this spot extraordinary isn’t just the authentic Irish fare—it’s the remarkable setting inside one of downtown Peoria’s oldest warehouses, where exposed brick walls and industrial charm create an atmosphere so authentic, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported straight to the Irish countryside.
You’ll discover this gem positioned perfectly on Southwest Water Street, where the historic warehouse bones provide the ideal backdrop for what locals proudly call Peoria’s most authentic Irish pub.
The moment you step through those doors, the cozy wooden beams, dim lighting, and carefully curated Irish memorabilia signal that this isn’t just another restaurant—it’s a genuine slice of Ireland right in central Illinois.
Menu Highlights That Transport You to Ireland
The Irish Coddle: This isn’t your ordinary soup—it’s pure comfort in a bowl. The charming homemade potato and leek soup arrives topped with melted cheddar cheese, fresh chives, and diced bacon.
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Keep Exploring →You’ll taste why visitors who’ve actually been to Ireland rave that this coddle rivals anything they enjoyed on the Emerald Isle itself.
Fish & Chips Perfection: Two hand-battered cod fillets arrive golden and crispy, fried in Kelleher’s special seasoned batter that achieves that perfect balance of crunch and tender flakiness inside.
The thick-cut potato wedges aren’t your typical fries—they’re crispy outside with fluffy interiors that complement the fish beautifully. The coleslaw and tartar sauce complete this classic dish that keeps customers coming back.
Shepherd’s Pie Like No Other: You’ll get a massive bowl filled with lightly seasoned ground beef, corn, peas, pearl onions, and diced carrots swimming in rich gravy, then topped with their signature Irish champ potatoes. Reviewers consistently mention this as some of the best shepherd’s pie they’ve ever tasted, with portions so generous you’ll likely take half home.
The Irish Sampler: Perfect for adventurous eaters who want to experience everything. This generous platter combines their shepherd’s pie, chicken hot pot, and Irish coddle, served with your choice of homemade Guinness brown bread or traditional soda bread. It’s ideal for sharing or when you simply can’t decide between the pub’s signature dishes.
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Discover MoreGuinness Pot Roast: A roast bold in flavor that’s been slow-simmered in Guinness Stout alongside baby carrots, onions, and red potatoes. Served with their famous champ potatoes, this hearty entrée embodies the comfort food spirit that makes Irish cuisine so beloved.
Crab Crunchers: These addictive appetizers feature sixteen miniature crab cake balls encased in crispy batter, served with ranch dipping sauce. They’re so popular that regular customers admit to ordering them multiple nights in a row.
Atmosphere & Historic Charm
Multi-Level Industrial Beauty: The exposed brick walls and multi-level layout showcase the building’s warehouse heritage beautifully. Strange industrial artifacts and authentic Irish memorabilia create visual interest throughout the space, making every corner worth exploring.
Authentic Irish Ambiance: The wooden beams overhead and dim lighting create that classic pub atmosphere where conversations flow easily. You’ll find the space strikes the perfect balance between lively and comfortable, whether you’re catching up with friends or conducting a business meeting.
Riverfront Location: The historic downtown riverfront setting adds to the charm, with the building itself being one of Peoria’s architectural treasures. The industrial bones of this old warehouse provide character that modern restaurants simply can’t replicate.
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Keep Exploring →Indoor and Outdoor Options: When weather permits, outdoor seating lets you enjoy the riverside atmosphere while savoring your meal. Inside, the cozy layout includes multiple seating areas that accommodate both intimate dinners and larger groups.
Other Considerations
Exceptional Beer Selection: You’ll discover an impressive lineup of 20 micro and import drafts plus 90 different bottled beers. The pub takes pride in having Peoria’s best liquor selection and maintains a reserve wine list for wine enthusiasts. Beer lovers particularly appreciate their perfectly poured Guinness and rotating selection of craft options.
Reasonable Pricing: The value here is outstanding, with most entrées priced affordably while maintaining high quality. You’ll get generous portions that often provide leftovers for tomorrow’s lunch, making it an excellent choice for both casual dining and special occasions.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Despite being a pub, the environment welcomes families comfortably during meal times. The varied menu ensures there’s something for everyone, from traditional Irish fare to more familiar American pub food options.
Special Events & Pop-Ups: Keep an eye out for their creative Pop-Up Series, which has featured themed experiences like “Cauldrons & Cocktails” for Halloween, with Christmas and Mardi Gras themes planned throughout the year. These reservation-only events showcase the kitchen’s creativity beyond their regular menu.
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Discover MoreConvenient Hours: The kitchen operates Monday through Thursday from 11 AM to 10 PM, Friday from 11 AM to 11 PM, and Saturday from 10 AM to 11 PM, with the bar staying open two hours later each night. They’re closed Sundays, so plan accordingly.
Parking & Location: Located in the heart of downtown Peoria’s historic district, you’ll find parking options nearby, and the location makes it perfect for combining with other downtown activities like visiting the Caterpillar Visitor Center.
Kelleher’s Irish Pub & Eatery
📍 619 SW Water St, Peoria, IL 61602
