Of Pubs and Snugs

Some of my favorite pubs are/were equipped with snugs. One of the distinctive features in authentic Irish pubs, it’s generally a space set off from the main pub that allows for privacy. Historically, snugs were where Irish women drank when there were societal restrictions on where they could enjoy a pint outside the home. Some snugs even had a “pass-through” window to the bar so one could order without prying eyes seeing who you were, which prevented wagging tongues from spreading stories about your business. That business may have included “snuggling” with someone without the world—or your spouse—watching.

The snug, therefore, was perfect for hatching nefarious plans or doing dirty deeds, as fans of the Netflix series Peaky Blinders may recall. But it’s just a simple, more private space in an otherwise public location. Unless the entire pub is a snug, like Fibber McGee’s in Sunset Beach. Spacious, it’s not. But welcoming, comfortable, cozy, and, well, snug, it is. And that’s just when you walk in.

Possessed of a solid beer list on both draft and bottles and an equally good wine list, Fibber McGee’s offers some truly outstanding food to accompany them, along with friendly, efficient and accommodating servers

I had actually been to Fibber McGee’s twice before, and had passed it many times during “the season,” when the outside patio tables were filled with folks who enjoyed the victuals, the grog and the atmosphere. But last night’s trip for dinner occurred during a particularly nasty, windy, wet nor’easter in coastal Brunswick county that had been lashing the area for two days. And after we hurried through the rain and wind from the car into the pub, I was struck by its cozy warmth. Its cozy size and appeal, which, due to the time of year I visited previously, had escaped my notice. I mean, who thinks “cozy” or “snug” when it’s 96º outside? An open table for four by a window and across from the small bar (which maybe seats ten) beckoned us. A night like this called for a heartier ale, so I sipped my Highland Brewing Gaelic Ale safe and warm, while laughing at the inclement weather outside. I felt, well, “at home.”

That feeling of comfort was enhanced after Chris brought out my Homemade Chicken Pot Pie, a regular Saturday night offering. No long, flowery description needed here. Hands down, best I’ve ever had.

What’s more, my meal mates couldn’t stop raving about their individual choices: a Grilled Shrimp Salad (above, laden with gigantic shrimp entwined in a snuggle), a massive Shrimp Burger (below) and the requisite Shepherd’s Pie.

While I enjoyed my dish in relative silence, my tablemates sounded like an advanced yoga class practicing their OMs—with occasional OMGs interspersed. It was most certainly “comfort” food in a “comfort” space on a night that called for both. I’m happy for those summer visitors who enjoy and patronize Fibber McGee’s patio, as I’m sure they appreciate the food and grog that the pub offers them.

But as they say in Peaky Blinders, “In the bleak midwinter,” I opt for a snug in a pub. Or a pub that actually is a snug. Cheers! The PubScout—immersed in the craft beer scene since 1996