Irish hospitality isn’t just a saying—it’s a tradition rooted in early Irish law, which once required households to offer food, drink, shelter, and entertainment to strangers. That same spirit of warmth and welcome runs through every inch of Garvan’s Gastropub in New Paltz.
Since opening in 2016, owner Garvan McCloskey has made it his mission to bring an authentic Irish experience to the Hudson Valley. “It’s going to be Irish in the way that it really means. I want people to feel comfortable, like they’re in my living room,” he told an interviewer when Garvan’s opened nine years ago.
Housed in a storybook 1759 house, Garvan’s blends architectural charm with hearty, crowd-pleasing fare. The menu pairs Irish classics with the fresh ingredients the Hudson Valley is known for, offering everything from Guinness lamb stew to vegetarian shepherd’s pie—plus plenty of options for gluten-free diners.
Beyond the food, Garvan’s is a gathering place. The gastropub hosts anniversaries, small weddings, and weekly Irish music sessions on Thursdays, with lively St. Patrick’s Day festivities on the horizon. And whether you’re toasting with a perfectly poured pint or a Lavender Dream mocktail (a floral mix of lemon juice, seltzer, lavender simple syrup cubes, and a rose sugar rim), the bar has something for every taste.
“Whether someone comes in for a comforting bowl of clam chowder, or a beer and some Irish music, it’s our pleasure to offer a warm and friendly space with exceptional service,” says McCloskey.
This article appears in March 2025.
