While some brew pubs draw vociferous crowds for televised soccer, The Pinch is a mellow Irish spot that delivers the booze without all the testosterone. The décor’s not worth writing home to Dublin about—the two narrow rooms sport red walls, exposed brick, and some high tables on the side—but the bar is more concerned with creating a be-merry atmosphere than winning design awards. Owners Peter Doherty and Paul Motherway, both seasoned bartenders, preside over the long wood bar, and a small stage at back hosts unassuming acoustic lads and lasses who probably don’t sing “Danny Boy.”

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