Eat, Drink & Be Irish

I'm not sure if St. Patrick's Day is considered an official "holiday", but there's no doubt that it's certainly one of America's most festive days. It doesn't matter what part of the world your ancestors hail from, on March 17 everyone is Irish. And the Irish sure know how to throw a party!

Bartenders around the country will spend the day pouring ending pints of Guinness draught. Keep in mind that the recommended pouring method for "the perfect pint" of Guinness takes almost two minutes. If bartenders get many requests for this method, it's going to be a long day.

Although I would consider myself an experienced beer drinker, I have never quite acquired a taste for Guinness. I realize that, to the people of Ireland, this borders on sacrilege. I mean no disrespect. But when it comes to Irish beers, I prefer the more traditional lager style such as Harp, Smithwick's and or perhaps even a Kilkenny's Irish Cream Ale. And although it's technically an American beer, I have to give a shout out to Killian's Irish Red. With this being said, Smithwick's is probably my overall favorite. And of course, there's always a story.....

Irish pubs attract me much like a toy store attracts a child. So, it should come as no surprise that while in New York City last year, I was in heaven. I felt magnetically drawn to the first Irish bar that crossed my path. I wasted no time ordering a Smithwick's draft. The waitress gave me a funny look, but nonetheless fulfilled my request. Never wanting to spoil the party, I eventually asked for a couple more. By the third Smithwick's order, the waitress had heard enough. She rolled her eyes and said, "I'm not bringing you another beer until you learn how to pronounce it!"

I immediately assumed the "deer in the headlights" look....

Now, keep in mind, I'm from Baltimore where the beer of legend is Natty Boh. So, I pick up the Smithwick's coaster from the table and hold it up like I'm getting ready to read to a class of first graders. I slowly drag my index finger along the colorful Smithwick's font and deliberately enunciated each syllable, "Smith...Wicks." I guess I showed her, huh?

The waitress just stared at me like I was an idiot, then shook her head.......

Seizing the opportunity to teach me some Irish culture, she tells me that it's actually pronounced Smiddicks. Although it defied the rules of pronunciation, I took her word for it. But seriously, how was I supposed to know this? It was bad enough that Smithwicks lacked the traditional "th" sound, but what happened to the "w"? And where in the hell does the "D" sound come from?? In any event, the waitress actually did me a favor. Now, when I order an Irish beer, I proudly ask for a Smiddicks. This inevitably projects the "I'm smarter than I look" image.

So, drag that green sweater out of the closet and grab yourself a heaping plate of corned beef and cabbage. And whether you're celebrating with a Smiddicks, a Guinness or a even a watered down American light beer with green food coloring, may you have a festive and enjoyable St Patrick's Day!

KW