There are plenty of pubs peppered around Edmonton, but The Buckingham really stands out. Yes, the crowd can be a little young on the weekends, but what draws people in is their entirely vegan pub menu. Buffalo “wings,” “mozza” sticks, mac ‘n’ cheese . . . you name it, it’s here, and completely vegetable-based.

Check out The Buckingham.

A downtown party night staple, you’ll find Nelly’s on the famed Argyle Street that, unless it’s Monday, is usually crawling with people of all (legal drinking) ages and walks of life. Here you'll find live music that runs the gamut from traditional east coast to rock or blues. The name of the pub itself comes from an Irish folktale of a whimsical woman who created a strong liquor (now banned for its potency) called poteen that, legend says, could literally cure what ailed you.

Check out Durty Nelly’s.

While many head to the island for a little rest and relaxation by the water, Vancouver Island’s major city isn't without its lively joints. There are plenty of shiny brass taps along the bar to pour you anything from micro brews to standards like Guinness or Innis and Gunn. The food menu offers simple pub dishes, like Irish-inspired flat bread with stout-caramelized onions or Guinness bratwursts.

Even though this is about as far away from Ireland as you can get in our country, it’s dubbed one of the most authentic Irish pubs outside of Ireland by The Irish Times!

Check out Irish Times Pub.

Heather does traditional pub fare proud with bangers and mash, steak and ale pie, and curry fries, but where they really excel is in their whisky selection. This is one place where you might want to forgo the stout or green beer and opt for a smattering of brown booze from Ireland and all around the globe.

Check out The Irish Heather.

Located in Winnipeg’s Exchange District, King’s Head is a go-to for anyone in search of a casual atmosphere where they can relax with friends or catch some live music. If stouts aren't filling you up, then look to the broad menu that offers anything from nachos to shepherd’s pie, and a surprisingly long list of Indian curries!

Check out The King’s Head.

One of the city’s oldest Irish pubs keeps things classic with an array of beers from the United Kingdom like Harp, Newcastle and Kilkenny, and straightforward food including over 20 varieties of burgers, steaks, curries and more.

Check out Le Vieux Dublin.

At a whooping 54 years old, Toronto’s oldest Irish pub has stood the test of time by keeping things simple: cold beer, good food, plenty of seating and live music on the regular. Film nerds will appreciate that McVeigh’s had a little cameo in the 1999 cult classic The Boondock Saints, where a gigantic bar fight broke out.

Check out McVeigh’s.

An Irish pub in the heart of B.C. wine country? Blasphemy! You can only sip on so many types of red and white wine, before all your taste buds scream for an ice-cold beer and some deep-fried goodness. There aren't many establishments in the Okanagan area that go all out for St. Patrick’s Day, but this is certainly one of them.

Check out O’Flannigan’s.

If you’re in Saskatoon for St. Patrick’s Day, heading to this longstanding pub on 2nd Avenue is a no-brainer. The food may not be classed as fine dining — I’m a sucker for the boneless dry ribs — but the service is attentive and the beer flows freely. After you've had your fill of brews and the buzzing atmosphere, it's only fitting to exit through the Leprechaun-sized door at the entrance. Yes, that is actually a thing.

Check out O’Shea’s.

At a mere 26 years old, this famous pub is a go-to for many Calgarians. In the evening, it’s not uncommon to catch businessmen sipping on pints next to a table of plaid-shirted hipsters — all the while a metal band plays in the background. Couple that with an all-season patio, a fantastic beer selection and quality pub fare, and you’re guaranteed a lively experience any night of the year, St. Patrick’s Day or not.

Check out Ship and Anchor.

This appropriately named spot in Toronto’s Cabbagetown neighbourhood is a local haunt with plenty of deep-fried, salty food, which pairs well with Guinness. It’s not you’re your traditional Irish pub food, but sharing their panko-crusted fried Brie with fruit compote and bread is definitely a good idea.

Check out Stout Irish Pub.

Dan Clapson is a food writer and culinary instructor based out of Calgary. He is constantly creating new recipes and striving to expand his culinary horizons. He thinks yam fries are overrated.