When you're in Sydney you have to see the Opera House, in New York the Empire State building is a must, and in Kilkenny no visit is complete without paying a call to Eamon Langton's.
Over the years, this justly famous pub has won so many Best Food and Best Pub awards that Eamon Langton was in past years asked to stand down and give someone else a chance.
The minute you enter the front room you know that you are in good hands. Naturally, there's a lovely fireplace with a fine, carved wooden mantelpiece. The ceiling is low and the atmosphere is a warm one, of dark wood, burgundy leather, and tasteful but not oppressive affluence.
The "backroom" is not a term that should be used to describe the restaurant that occupies the rear of the building. No, indeed, for here we have a design triumph. The overall impression is that of skylights, green plants and a sense of graceful atrium airiness - the walls virtually stream light from tiers of tall Gothic-style windows that rise two storeys high. The view is of a series of pretty gardens and patios which are open for the sun-lover on fine days.
Dancing on Tuesday and Saturday evenings. Bar food and restaurant meals.

From the Appletree Press title: The Irish Pub Guide.
Also from Appletree: Irish Pub Songs.