“We’ve always been in awe of the magic that pervades the old Irish traditional pubs,” said The Shebeen team on their website. The Shebeen, which traditionally means “an illicit bar where alcohol is sold illegally,” was the brainchild of cabinetmaker John Walsh. He decided to convert his old, worn-out caravan into a charming hotspot evoking homey Irish tradition.
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Walsh spent four months totally remodeling the interior, handcrafting a pub with Irish oak and pine. His goal was to give the space a vintage feel with antique decor and old-fashioned style wallpaper. In 2014 The Shebeen started rolling up to events like weddings, birthdays, and even the National Ploughing Championships, delighting patrons with an old-world, cozy atmosphere. 10 people can fit inside the tiny pub, and tables can be set up outdoors. Typically two beers are on tap, and The Shebeen is also equipped with a sound system and fold-down windows to transport patrons into another world.
Just last month, Walsh expanded his business, transporting the Shebeen experience to America. Now a new Shebeen is on the road, rolling through New England for parades and open days, operated by Walsh, although he’s currently talking with clients who want to license them.
Walsh now offers three different styles of caravan for sale, and those who want to bring the experience to their hometown can purchase one for operation. They’re equipped with old Irish paraphernalia such as bottles, cash registers, mugs, coasters, and curtains, as well as the beautiful woodwork. Walsh hopes to set a whole Shebeen system in place, with regional managers, so more Americans have access to a piece of Ireland.
Boston revelers can find the pub along the official parade route on St. Patrick’s Day.
Via Forbes
Images via The Shebeen
