The Irish word for “a good time” is craic, and that is what you’ll find that at what is considered the “Cheers” of McKinney, The Celt. It has won numerous awards, including IRISH PUBS GLOBAL “Irish Pub of the Year – Americas” in 2019 and “Best Irish Whiskey Experience – North America” in 2018 (>60 Irish whiskeys alone & >100 when Scotch and Bourbon are included – oh, and one of the top 2-3 Guinness sellers in the state).
How did the owner, Stan Penn, achieve such accomplishments? Let’s start with a passion for what he does. After spending 30 years in banking, Stan says “I now feel like I never have to go to work”. He and his staff are baseball fanatics and travel around to various cities to watch a game. While there they make a point of finding that cities best Irish pub, so they can learn from others. It’s probably not necessary, but worth it when he and General Manager, Nick Keim, hear someone say, “It’s not Ireland, but it’s so damn close!”
It’s obvious the employees love working here. Maybe it’s because, when you do a good job at The Celt for a period of time, they take you to Ireland. It’s not only a great reward but helps create a true Irish experience. However, the employees all recognize the importance of customer relations and know many of their customers by their first name, what they do, and their families.
After knowing he wanted to open an Irish pub for about 15 years, Stan started looking for the right spot. When he walked into the current building at 100 N Tennessee St, he simply fell in love with what was once a brothel and is on the Legends of McKinney Ghost Walk. Nick had been with the previous business, Churchill’s, for several years and welcomed the much livelier atmosphere, which offers live music 6 nights a week, trivia, and an open mike night.
Oh, and they have absolutely the best fish and chips you can find! And if you have a friendly canine, they are welcome. So, visit www.theceltmckinney.com