Shenannigans

LOCATION
Right in the heart of the city, on the intersect of Mitchell and Peel Streets.

PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIA
An Irish pub in the Top End is a prank in itself, and Shenannigans is certainly where it’s at when it comes to fun and frolics in Darwin central. Impossible to miss, it’s the no-frills friendly institution on the Mitchell Street corner where it intersects with Peel Street, just a block from the ocean-side esplanade. Usually flooded with backpackers and globetrotters, Shenannigans is a classic spot for a Guinness. So bring out the party hats, put on your leprechaun suit and head to Shenannigans for a spot of mischief.

Award-winning Shenannigans has a terrific team serving up mouth-watering pub lunches, delicious dinners and a cheeky cocktail menu. Indoors is a riot in the evenings, with entertainment every night. You may need more than a Guinness to join in the karaoke or tabletop dancing competitions, but you won’t need fortification to appreciate the shenannigans from the safety of a cosy bar seat.

For conversation and a breath of fresh air with your meal, dine alfresco. The food is, well – an Irish prank of course – Irish and everything else. Mix your Irish soda bread with Thai-style South Australian oysters or a cocktail of Gulf prawns. And while the five-spiced Territory crocodile fillet with mango dressing is for brave souls, there’s traditional Caesar, and a delicious roasted pumpkin mix with fetta, crunchy pine nuts and balsamic tang. The Irish stew is tempting, and guaranteed to bring on a sweat if you aren’t already mopping the Darwin humidity from your brow. For a complete Top End smorgasbord, the mixed grill gives you a taste of croc sausage, roo fillet, and the local favourite fish barramundi, with sides of mash and veg.

For a sweet ending, slip your spoon into a mocha mudslide sundae and let the cool coffee ice cream melt on your tongue. Sip an Irish coffee. There’s no hurry – the bar is open till 2am, and the fun is just beginning.

Merridy Anne Pugh