I recently had the opportunity to indulge in brunch with Eagan Arms Public House co-owner Tracie Munce. In just seconds, Munce’s face lit up with joy at the chance to share her passion and pride about her latest pub location, which opened in partnership with Lee Tomlin in January 2020.
As I dug into a delectable dish of Bangers & Mash and Munce took the first bite of her ham and cheese croissant, I could see why—the food was divine. As we delighted in our meal, I listened as Munce shared the backstory of the establishment.
Building on an established menu and the inspiration of the British Isles
The Eagan Arms Public House is the second of two pubs owned and operated by Lee and Tracie. Merlins Rest Irish Pub opened in 2007 and still stands on Lake Street in Minneapolis, offering fares inspired by the British Isles, situated off the north-western coast of continental Europe. Merlins Rest offers the same menu as the Eagan location, with live music on the weekends, whiskey tastings, and a pub quiz every Wednesday.
Munce tells how she and Tomlin moved to Eagan in 2017 and wanted to open a second pub. She shared how they would walk 15 minutes to a nearby Mexican Restaurant and, while there, would discuss their hopes and dreams for a new restaurant. And in a twist of fate, the opportunity presented itself—requiring a fast decision and no looking back. “Lee ran into the office one day, shouting that we needed to make a decision right now,” Munce said, looking back wistfully on a day that left her crying joyful tears. That very Mexican restaurant was closing, and the location was for sale. There was only one decision to make—it was a yes—and they’ve never looked back.
But all this happened in late 2019, and we all know the events unfolding in the spring of 2020. “We opened Eagan Arms Public House on January 11, 2020. By mid-March, the government shutdowns had us doing a last call at 5 p.m. on March 17. We said goodbye to so many great employees. It was a hard time,” she lamented. But once again, an opportunity would present itself.
“Lee and I love being part of the Eagan community. We enjoy the experience of watching people come in with their family and friends. This is a place to build a connection. Someplace to feel a part of.”
However, the COVID-19 pandemic had different plans for businesses worldwide, and it was no different for the Eagan Arms Public House. Yet they rose to the occasion. “We created a pod of about five people. We met daily to cook food and opened our doors for pick-up orders in the evenings.” Their ingenuity helped feed people throughout the pandemic. “Our customers count,” she said, illustrating their desire to offer great food during unprecedented times.
From Jameson to an aged Teeling 24-year whiskey, with food to complement every palate
Fast forward to today, and the Eagan location has become a thriving destination for those wanting the best in British Isles-inspired comfort food to just about every Irish whisky, scotch, or bourbon you could imagine. True whisky connoisseurs will appreciate Whiskey Wednesdays. And in October through June, enjoy the opportunity to taste single-malt whiskeys on the second Thursday of every month.
Of course, no Irish pub would be complete without some menu staples, including the mouth-watering fish and chips, the mushroom and Swiss burger (one of Munce’s favorites), the seasonal Fisherman’s Pie, and the Irish Stew, which will be back on the menu for fall. And for the kids? Don’t worry, there’s something for them, too. A children’s menu for little tummies offers protein, peas, and apples. The small plates option offers delights, including smash burgers and mac and cheese. “Whether you’re two, 22, or 82, our mac and cheese is the best, made with four kinds of cheese. Top it with corned beef, bacon, or our marinated steak,” urged Munce.
So, the next time you want to tease those taste buds or try a new Irish whiskey, make a trip over to the Eagan Arms Public House. With an expansive menu to choose from, there’s something for everyone.
“Lee and I love being part of the Eagan community. We enjoy the experience of watching people come in with their family and friends. This is a place to build a connection.”
