The Porter House   

This is no imitation Irish pub. Every plank, bolt, brick and screw is a direct import from somewhere in Ireland. Masonic stone pillars and rusty artifacts embrace an era gone by -- think of a cozy, 200-year-old cocoon - that still serves beer, meat and potatoes. Lovely Irish bartenders (with accents to drool over) offer the young and smoky professionals a shot, draft or bottle of the week, but ask for the "baby beer shots." Unless you're a hardliner, in which case you'll appreciate the majestic selection of 25 single malt scotches. Live bands stuff the place five nights a week, and Celtic classics like shepherd's pie, Guinness stew or 38 oz prime porterhouse are available daily for lunch and dinner. If you're smothered indoors, take a breather on the winter-ready beer garden -- a year-round fireplace and outdoor heaters keep it toasty. Oh, and cigar lovers, make sure you ask about "smoke night."