McGilvra's Bar & Restaurant - American restaurant in Seattle - 4234 E Madison St, USA

McGilvra's is an adorable eatery near the waterfront of Madison Park. Parking is accessible, as are the views. The service was prompt and kind; my partner and I were surprised by how quickly we were seated on Sunday. A standout dish included the bourbon lobster bisque, while the crab benedicts and rueben were ok. I loved how crab bisque has strands of crab rather than chunks, which genuinely elevates this dish. Some of the pastrami inside the rueben was slightly overcooked and hard, but the composite flavors are all-on-all correct. The crab benedict was void of crab and drowned by the sauce. However, the accompanying potato wedges were noted to be of superior texture. The bloody mary and a prickly pear margarita were reasonable concoctions that perfectly accompanied our breakfast. Overall, I would return for friendly staff and the bisque.

Nachos, $17 made from Juanitas bagged chips, Sysco chicken chunks, cheese, and a light sprinkle of beans and corn. Guacamole had waayy too much lime. These would be $5 at dive bar. The drink was a house margarita for $11 which would be a good deal if it was made the way the other $11 signature pear margarita is, supposedly with espolon, however It was made with cheap house tequila and mixer. This was all fine, but as a typical Seattle restaurant, the bartender looked like he was irritated to be at work serving ppl.

Fresh and yummy food. Nice location too

I would have given a higher star review however I have dealt with this situation on 3 visits to your establishment. It has to do with seating. There are tables for two+ and tables for four+. We have been told that we cannot sit at the tables for 4 because they are saving them for larger parties and we comply. But no sooner than we sit down, two people will be seated at the larger table. Now if it were a one time occurrence I would totally understand. Oh and I will have to say that race has something to do with it unfortunately. Yes! I say unfortunately because my wife and I enjoy the food. Everything that we have ordered is delicious! In conclusion please seat people where they ask to be seated (especially when all tables for 4+ are empty). Racism is real and we are tired of dealing with this. We are both seniors. Thank you for listening.

One of the lunch servers (Friday morning, June 2) was extremely rude and unwelcoming. It was especially disheartening as it was a very special lunch with a great friend I was visiting on vacation and I picked out the restaurant after much deciding and planning (plus I grew up on Capitol Hill and used to go there often). The waitress rudely sat us, and it was quite clear she had no interest in doing her job with any enthusiasm or professionalism. We decided to just get up and leave before ordering, and she very condescendingly yelled "have a nice day" on our way out. It was the best thing though, because we went to Madison Park Bakery up the street and got the most delicious sandwiches and cookies, and chips and soda from Red Apple and had a wonderful picnic on a bench at the beach down the street. I will never even try to go back to McGilvra's again, but I will definitely go back to the bakery.

This place is tragically underrated. Consistent staff and great food options really stand out, as does the varied items available. Great, classic selection and a menu that is really great for an "Irish pub". Seriously, the staff is always so helpful and the nearby beach and nightlife really make this place a destination and more than just a stop over in the Madison park area.

A mainstay for Madison Park residents, super casual, has outdoor seating with lake view, neighbourhood bar vibe, not quite a “pub” or “sports bar” but with the fireplace could easily have an incredible pub atmosphere.

Fantastic ambience, top-notch staff! I had the Fish & Chips which were awesome. Due to current restrictions most places just don't "feel" right. I did NOT get that impression at McGilvra's. Felt wonderful. Oh the location is spectacular, wonderful lights at night just a short stroll outside. Highly recommended! I'm going back.