Irish Eyes Spotlight
(From the July-September, 2002 Newsletter)
Upon finishing early this morning, I was asked how long I’d been performing at IRISH EYES. It’s hard to believe that come July, it’ll be 24 years that I first jumped upon on that stage and sang “The Drunken Sailor.” So much has transpired since then. I’m told by veteran tavern revelers (and those who do studies of the same) that the average life of a saloon is 4-5 years, depending. . . The late Chuck Carroll bought IRISH EYES in December, 1976, and kept it until September, 1995, at which time it was purchased by folk singer Gerry O’Connell and his brother-in-law Scott Finnegan. They are still holding forth at 2519 N. Lincoln, and have successfully established IRISH EYES as a “place to be” in the Lincoln Park entertainment corridor. Not that Chuck didn’t have success. He did, but there were ups and downs, though not too many. At any rate, he sold the place in September, 1995, and Gerry and Scott assumed control. Almost from the outset it was a success – just a few “minor” improvements like expanding washrooms and a few beer signs and banners just to spice up the place a bit. And the people came in. In copious numbers. They seemed to be having fun. The word was passed that this was the place on Lincoln Avenue to be. In this writer’s opinion, business has stayed very good. One pleasant surprise has been Monday nights, with dollar beer night and “mug” night. Guest bartenders are another success. C’mon, let your friends be served by you. An “open mic” night has recently been introduced, which seems to do catching on with those willing to take their turn in the spotlight. This is a Sunday night undertaking, and host Eammon Knuff sees to it that everyone has their chance.
IRISH EYES doesn’t serve food, but many patrons order their own (pizza, Chinese food, appetizers – even bags of chips, Fritos and pretzels) or smuggle it in. Not to be missed activities include the Lincoln Avenue Street Fair, New Years Eve (the place is usually rented out) and, of course, St. Patrick’s weekend and lead-up. This is where it’s happening, boys and girls. If I can’t sing it for you, no doubt Gerry will. After all, he knows Alice better than I do (Alice, Alice — who the — is Alice?)
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