It may have been a scorching hot day in Rhode Island, but it felt like the true “island life” at County Cork Irish Pub in Warwick. The late afternoon sun sparkled off the waters of Warwick Cove as diners lingered over tall glasses of beer and heaping platters of Fish & Chips, breathing in the cool air off the bay. Local residents Sandy and Dave have chosen to eat indoors while fellow fans of this hidden gem are trickling in to enjoy a bit of relaxation, “thirsty Thursday-style!”

When Chef Ken brings out a platter of those golden-brown Fish & Chips, Sandy gasps and exclaims “Those are just awesome!” Though she and Dave, who discovered County Cork quite by accident back in 2012, had finished their own meals, they were happy to stay and take in the scenery. They are huge fans of everything about this cozy pub on the water ~ they love the great servers, the loyal crowd of friends and neighbors, the breathtaking and casual setting, and mostly, the outstanding food (Dave’s favorite ~ without a doubt, the Bangers & Mash, served when the season changes). They can’t say enough about this unexpected jewel, tucked in a quiet corner of the city.

County Cork Irish Pub is an authentic Irish pub, owned by an authentic Irish lass, Cora McAuliffe. At this time of year, Cora’s pub is filled with regulars and newcomers alike who arrive in boats or by car to bask in the company of other enthusiastic fans. Brightly colored umbrellas, picnic tables and relaxing chairs lure hungry diners outside, leaving no doubt that summertime in Rhode Island is the best time of year. It is a little slice of heaven.

The food here could best be described as classic pub fare ~ juicy burgers, Saugy’s, sandwiches and wraps ~ and the flakiest, golden-est Fish & Chips in town. Burgers include Blue Cheese, Bacon and Cheese, Jalapeno and Mozzarella. If diners are seeking lighter fare, there are lots of wraps and hot or cold sandwiches to choose from ~ Ribeye or shaved steak, grilled chicken, turkey, BLTs, chicken salad, Reubens and corned beef. There are crisp summer salads, bowls of creamy Clam Chowder, piles of Buffalo Chicken Nachos, hand-cut fries ~ all fresh and made-to-order.

Chef Ken is offering up a fantastic summer lunch special until the end of September. For a mind-blowing $8.99, indulge your appetite on this deal: one domestic beer, glass of house wine or soft drink, accompanied by any burger, wrap, fish sandwich, Saugy, Fish & Chips or House or Caesar salad (with or without chicken)! Can you say WOW???

Come to County Cork Irish Pub, located at 50 Waterfront Drive, right on the brilliant Warwick Cove. For more information, call 401-732-2675 or visit them at www.countycorkirishpub.com. Summer hours are Monday through Sunday, 12:30pm until 1:00am. Closed on Tuesdays. You can also find the pub on Facebook!