Molly Maguire’s

Popped in right after I landed to see what was on stock. Mostly regular American beers, few European. Sunday afternoon, so not too lively, bar pretty occupied. Nice service. Had an Alaskan Amber and departed, heading for my hotel room. NOthing special about this bar.

VERY smoky. Had the Swedish Meatballs... very good. Nice selection considering the area. Worth the visit.

The fact that this pub is not on the Houston internet radar screen testifies to how lame craft beer drinkers are in Texas. I’ve made 5 trips to Houston in the last 16 months from Portland, Oregon. I’m always seeking out the best beer venues and all my searches have ended up with nothing worthy by Portland standards except maybe Gingerman and Flying Saucer. I found this place by talking to a Miller Distributor at a Sports Bar. He gave me the wrong name and the wrong location, but thanks to him, I stumbled on Molly Maguire’s. The key to how good this place is is Pilsener Urquell. I’ve had it twice at Molly’s in two months and each time, it’s comparable to the best Pils Urquell I’ve ever had. I had Optimator last night. It’s not usually a fast mover so I asked for a taste first - Perfect example of the style and how Optimator should be. They also have Dogfish Head - 60 minute on tap and 90 minute in bottles. The 90 minute was spot on! I find it a travasty that Rate Beer and Beer Advocate have no mention of this place! Trust me. If Molly’s was transplanted to Portland, it’d do just fine! Plus, the Bar Maids are simply Magic that you won’t find in Portland. Bob Brewer PS - If my ratings were Regionally adjusted, I would give Molly Maguire’s the max rating in every category for Houston. Wish I was there right now.