Ri Ra Irish Pub is a full-service bar and restaurant with locations across the United States

Ri Ra Irish Pub operates as a casual dining and drinking establishment that serves Irish and American food, beer, and cocktails. The chain has multiple locations in different cities, each designed with traditional Irish pub décor — dark wood, stone, and dim lighting. You can walk in without a reservation at most locations, though busy times may mean a wait for a table or bar seat.

The name "Ri Ra" comes from Irish slang meaning a commotion or lively gathering, which reflects the pub's focus on creating an energetic social atmosphere. Most locations feature live music on certain nights, sports on television, and a full bar with Irish whiskeys and beers alongside standard American options.

Key Takeaways

  • Ri Ra locations operate as walk-in bars and restaurants with no reservation requirement, though wait times vary by location and time of day.
  • The menu includes Irish dishes like fish and chips and bangers and mash alongside American fare, with pricing typical for casual dining establishments.
  • Most Ri Ra locations serve alcohol and feature a full bar with Irish whiskey, beer, and cocktails.
  • Live music and sports broadcasts are common features, but specific entertainment schedules vary by location.
  • Hours of operation and exact menu offerings differ between individual Ri Ra locations, so checking ahead is useful before visiting.

What the menu typically includes

Ri Ra serves a mix of traditional Irish pub food and American comfort food. Common items include fish and chips, Irish stew, bangers and mash, corned beef and cabbage, and shepherd's pie. The kitchen also prepares burgers, sandwiches, salads, and appetizers like wings and nachos. Pricing is generally in the range of casual dining restaurants — entrees typically cost between $12 and $20, though prices vary by location.

The bar stocks Irish beers like Guinness and Smithwick's, along with domestic options. Irish whiskeys are a focus, with several brands available for neat pours or cocktails. Non-alcoholic drinks include soft drinks, coffee, and tea. Some locations may have seasonal specials or limited-time offerings, so the full menu can shift throughout the year.

How to find a Ri Ra location near you

Ri Ra has locations in multiple U.S. cities, but the chain is not present everywhere. The easiest way to find a nearby location is to search "Ri Ra Irish Pub near me" or visit the company's website, which lists all operating locations with addresses and phone numbers. Major cities with Ri Ra locations include Denver, Las Vegas, Phoenix, and Washington D.C., though this list changes as locations open and close.

Once you identify a location, calling ahead is worth doing if you want to confirm current hours, ask about that night's entertainment, or check how busy they are. Many locations post their hours and upcoming events on social media or their own pages, which can help you plan your visit.

What to expect regarding wait times and seating

Ri Ra operates on a first-come, first-served basis at most locations. During peak hours — typically Friday and Saturday evenings, and around major sports events — you may wait 15 to 45 minutes for a table. Seating at the bar usually moves faster than table seating, and you can order food and drinks from the bar if you prefer not to sit at a table.

If you arrive during slower times — weekday afternoons or early evenings — you can usually sit down when ready. The pub's layout typically includes a main bar area, dining tables, and sometimes a separate room for larger groups or events. If you have a large party and want to may provide seating, calling ahead to ask about group accommodations is a reasonable step.

Entertainment and atmosphere

Most Ri Ra locations feature live music on certain nights, often Irish musicians or cover bands playing rock and pop. The schedule varies by location and season, so you should check with the specific pub you plan to visit if live music is important to you. Sports broadcasts are standard — you'll find televisions showing football, basketball, hockey, and soccer depending on the season.

The décor emphasizes traditional Irish pub style with stone, wood, and warm lighting. The atmosphere tends toward lively and social rather than quiet or intimate. This makes Ri Ra a reasonable choice if you're looking for a place to watch a game with friends or enjoy live music, but less suitable if you want a calm, conversation-focused environment.

Payment methods and pricing

Ri Ra accepts standard payment methods including cash, credit cards, and debit cards. Most locations also accept mobile payment apps like Apple Pay and Google Pay. There is no cover charge to enter the pub, though individual items on the menu and bar have their own prices. Some locations may charge a cover fee on nights with live music or special events, so asking when you arrive is reasonable if you're uncertain.

Tipping is customary at the bar and for table service. Standard practice is 15 to 20 percent of your bill before tax. If you're paying at the bar for a single drink, leaving $1 to $2 per drink is typical. Prices for beer range from around $5 to $8 depending on the type and location, while cocktails typically cost $8 to $12.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to make a reservation at Ri Ra?

Most Ri Ra locations accept walk-ins without a reservation. However, if you have a large group or want to may provide seating during a busy time, calling ahead to ask about group reservations is a good idea. Some locations may hold space for groups, but this varies by pub.

What time do Ri Ra locations typically open and close?

Hours vary by location, but most Ri Ra pubs open in late morning or early afternoon and stay open until late evening or midnight. Some locations may have different hours on weekends. You should check the specific location's hours before visiting, as they can change seasonally or for special events.

Can I watch sports at Ri Ra?

Yes, most Ri Ra locations have televisions showing sports broadcasts. If you're planning to watch a specific game, calling ahead to confirm they'll have it on and asking about seating near a screen is reasonable, especially during major events.

Is there a dress code at Ri Ra?

Ri Ra is a casual pub with no formal dress code. Comfortable everyday clothing is appropriate. During evening hours or special events, some locations may have informal expectations against very casual wear like gym clothes, but this is not enforced as a strict policy.

Does Ri Ra serve food, or is it only a bar?

Ri Ra is both a bar and a restaurant. The kitchen serves food during operating hours, and you can order from the menu whether you're sitting at a table or at the bar. Food is available throughout the day and evening, though some items may not be available during all hours.