176) The Shakespeare of Parnell Street, D1

Also called the 'Kimchi Hop-House'. Formerly called ‘The Rotunda Tavern.’ The ornate external ‘Shakespeare’ sign dates back to 1948 and still stretches over the bar today. Traditional local that has since extended to include a Korean restaurant next door. Sushi and kimchi can be had in abundance – the spring roll starters are things of great beauty and joy. Despite the name, there is not much evidence of the Swan of Avon in the decor, the place being decidedly a bar bare of the bard. The smoking area is large and capacious and full of disgruntled exiles from the former Sweeney’s (hence the lingering smell of hashish in the stoned air), among them house painter Tristan Tormey and Aspergers spokesmen Philip Anthony Kenny and Philip Bradley.

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