We decided on Hennessy's Irish Pub in downtown Muskegon for our April review since Kelle always talks about her favorite Boxty and the desserts (even though she claims not to be a big "dessert person"). It just so happens that her neighbor, Terry Hennessy, is the sister of the owner, Mike, and we wouldn't dare sneak in there without her. Needless to say, Terry was delighted to join us.
So, while only three of us (Kelle, Nancy and Terry) went on our Irish adventure, in retrospect, we ordered enough food to feed at least six people! We decided to splurge on two appetizers: (1) the Artichoke & Spinach Dip, which is Hennessy’s blend of artichokes, spinach, parmesan cheese, and cream cheese, topped with scallions and diced tomato, and is served with pita chips and homemade crostinis; and (2) Onion Straws (hand dipped crispy ranch-style onion straws with chipotle ranch sauce). Both were super yummy! And since Kelle had raved so much about Hennessy’s Boxties, we ordered one “mini” Spinach and Portabello Boxty. About the size of a well-stuffed taco, it was a real deal at only $2.00.
What's fun is that you can order off the regular menu as well as a Chef's Feature Menu, which highlights entrees and desserts created by Culinary Institute of Michigan (CIM) students and the chefs. They even place the name of the chef/student on the menu next to the entree they created. The Feature Menu changes with new culinary creations every two months. Not only is the food delicious, but the prices are very reasonable.
We couldn't help but notice a showcase full of various awards, which includes Best Restaurant and Best Appetizer. The staff is by far some of the friendliest people with the way everyone greets you on the way in and says goodbye on the way out. We didn't stick around to listen to the live music, but imagine it could be a lot of fun to check out on the weekends.
Terry shared some stories about Mike and Hennessy’s… "I can't help but brag about Mike since he's a great guy. I'm so glad he is realizing one of his dreams and enjoys doing it at the same time. It is MY favorite place to eat!"
Hennessy’s is also open for breakfast on Saturdays and Sundays, starting at 8:00 a.m.
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| This is one of a whole showcase full of awards. |
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| Appetizer: Onion Straws with chipotle ranch sauce $5.99 |
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| Appetizer: Artichoke & Spinach Dip served with pita chips and homemade crostinis - $6.99 |
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| A mini Spinach and Portabello Boxty - $2.00 |
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| Orange Bigarade Chicken - Sauteed chicken with onions and peppers, dressed in a delightful savory orange creme sauce with farfalle pasta and parmesan cheese. $11.99 Terry: "I eat at Hennessy's a lot, but this time I decided to order a dish I've never had before from the regular menu. The orange bigarade denotes the seville orange, which is a little more bitter than most oranges, but the cream sauce sweetens it. The three orange segements on top were a perfect blend. There was plenty to take home and enjoy the next day too." |
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| Shepherd's Pie - $9.99 A savory blend of ground and chipped lamb, carrots, onions and peas. Topped with a generous portion of garlic mashed potatoes, broiled to a golden brown and served with freshly baked Irish Soda bread and a house salad. Nancy: "I ordered the Shepherd’s Pie (“when in Ireland, do as the Irish”), which was excellent. Plus, after all the appetizers (and wanting to “save room for dessert”), I had enough left over for lunch the next day." |
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| Chef Feature Menu Item Mushroom Infused Chicken $9.99 by Bailey G. - CIM Student Sauteed chicken breast stuffed with feta, mushrooms and spinach topped with a velvety mushroom poulet sauce. Served with quinoa salad with red pepper and scallions. Kelle: "I went to Hennessy's planning on an Irish Boxty, but after looking at the Chef Feature Menu I decided to try something new and different. This entree did not disappoint and I'd gladly get it again. It's fun going to Hennessy's just knowing there is a lot of creativity going on in the kitchen." |
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| Stout Peanut Butter Lava Cake $3.99 by Nathan L. - Culinary Apprentice Chocolate cake with a warm peanut butter and chocolate ganache center. Served with Irish honey liquor, caramel, peanut butter cream sauce. "Simply Irresistible" Hennessy's Irish Pub & Restaurant 885 Jefferson Street Muskegon, MI 49440 231.728.3333 Reservations: Yes Price: $$ The Divas want it to be noted, with all due respect, that the views and opinions shared in this venue do not represent those of the Grand Haven Tribune and are entirely based on each individual experience we encounter. Perhaps on any other occasion, they may differ. Our dining experience is entirely at our own expense and not covered by the Grand Haven Tribune or any dining establishment. |
