Visiting the area for just a couple of days and came across it while driving back to our hotel, it's within walking distance so we walked over that night, crossing our fingers for a much better drink than we had at another place earlier. Walking in was a fun surprise, it was the best Irish Pub experience! Lots of wood all around, the tables, the bar, the walls, dim but cozy lighting, tables and chairs everywhere. It was very inviting! You order at the bar, which is think is a traditional Irish Pub way, our bartender was great and made some awesome drinks that absolutely made up for our day! We had two of the featured drinks, one was a watermelon tonic and the other was an old fashioned and they were made perfectly! We didn't get to try the food, we just came for drinks and we were not let down! read more

Celtic Ray Irish Pub - Irish Near Me - Punta Gorda, Florida

No waiters / waitresses. Kinda weird. Order rounds at the bar and take them to the table yourself. Food is also ordered at the bar, but a food runner brings the food. Wife ordered the fish & chips. Just OK. Fries were not crispy, still a little white. Cole slaw was bland. I ordered the Guiness beef stew. Dish was only warm, not hot. Flavor was good, not great. Not enough to complain to anyone working there. But certainly would not recommend the place for the food. Plenty of places to drink and root for your team, has options for inside and out. Found a quiet enough place inside, but no TV around. Probably why it was quiet. Thanks, but we'll be trying something else next time. read more

What a cool hidden gem this is. You walk in off a typical Florida street and escape into a traditional Irish pub. It truly feels so authentic, like you're in Ireland. They have menus hanging from the walls so you can grab a table anywhere you want and then order drinks and food at the bar. The employees were all super friendly and took great care of us and everyone around us. They have board games as well to play while you hangout. They also have authentic Irish beers. The cheese and fruit platter and scotch eggs were a great way to start our meal. These came out first so we could enjoy them with our drinks, while waiting for dinner. I had the spicy beef pasty for dinner and it was pretty good. Each pasty that was ordered looked slightly different. The fish and chips looked great as well as the rice and curry. We will definitely be back. read more

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Went in for a fish & chips and a reprieve from the heat. It's a cute place with lots of charm. I sat at the bar and it took a few minutes for some service, it was fine cause it was quite busy. Service was warm and friendly by all the staff. Prices of the food were a touch on the high side, but at least the meal was decent. I'll definitely visit the next time I'm nearby. read more

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This was my first time going to Celtic Ray and I had an amazing experience. The came out perfect and had amazing flavor to it. It was my first time trying Soda bread as well and it was very taste. I will definitely be going back when I can. 11/10 read more

Celtic Ray Irish Pub - Leek & Potato Soup - Irish Near Me - Punta Gorda, Florida

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Really fun pub with authentic Irish decor, beer, and food. Affordable prices. Bartender was very nice. Only feedback was that service was a bit slow for how packed it was that day. (Only one person seemed to be working, probably an anomaly.). I loved the potato leek bisque and vegan curry. We'll be back! read more

Celtic Ray Irish Pub - Vegan curry - Irish Near Me - Punta Gorda, Florida

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This place is a very good Irish restaurant with many authentic dishes. We tried the beef stew and the Reuben pasty. Both came with coleslaw and Irish soda bread. The pasty also had the made in house chips (fries). The beef stew, Reuben pasty, and Irish soda bread were very good, The chips were overcooked and had a lot of small hard pieces, almost like the last of a batch. The coleslaw was disappointing as it had little to no flavor. The ambiance is outstanding. They have seating both upstairs and the ground floor, inside and outside, and they have seating at the bar inside. The decor really shines with a genuine Irish bar feel. The service was real good. Everyone was pleasant and attentive. Just beware that you have to place your order at the bar. They have people who bring your food, silverware, and condiments you want, to your table. read more

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I ordered the vegan curry, remembering it from the time before when the vegetables were fresh and the entire thing succulent and appetizing. It was dark in the room, but the dish really wasn't the same; the carrots were of a cut that indicated they were not fresh and it did not hold together as it once had. There were some red pepper slices, peas and chickpeas. The biggest thing was I was sick all that night. I think this dish is not ordered frequently. I suspect the carrots. Please Celtic Ray - do attend to your vegetables! I was so sick, for hours! read more

Came for the St Pattie's Day event, stayed for the corned beef and cabbage. Raves all around for the fish too. Kudos for being able to feed all those people, in containers, and please us. 6* out of 5. And my first Harp Lager wasn't bad either. Thank you to your entire team. BTW, 5* from me is as rare as braciole in an Irish pub... read more

We stumbled upon Celtic Ray Irish Pub several years ago as the bar we were originally planning to go to had closed the kitchen for the night and we passed Celtic Ray on our way there so we decided to give it a try. We had a fantastic time. The bar was very lively, drinks were good and balanced and the food was soooo good! I had never had a Pasty before and really loved it. My husband and I have returned to Punta Gorda on many occasions simply to enjoy drinks and food here. Our son attended the University of Florida and this was our Pitt stop between Miami and Gainesville. We always enjoyed a drink and food in both directions during our visits. He's graduated college 5 years ago and we still come up to Punta Gorda just to visit Celtic Rays! Our last visit was just this weekend for my husband's birthday! January 2026 and Celtic Rays never disappoints! My husband's favorite is the Sheppard Pie and Guinness Stew, my personal favorites are the Tandoori Chicken Pasty and the Reuben Pasty! The soda bread is also a personal favorite of ours! read more

The wife and I went to Celtic Ray Irish pub in Punta Gorda. We brought our dog. It had a tremendous outdoor patio. You go to the bar to order your food and drink from an extremely friendly bartender. We split the fish and chips. I thought it was delicious. My wife thought it was a tad bit greasy and too much breading, but like I said, I really enjoyed it. We also had the Scottish eggs and they were delicious. Even the wife loved them. I should mention the soda bread that came with the fish and chips was delicious. The Guinness was on tap and it was delicious and the kill Kenny was also a very good ale. I think Celtic rays represented what we saw in Ireland as a perfect Irish pub. read more

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Stopped at Celtic ray because an area band we enjoy was performing. It was a good call. We sat outside on the patio area. There was ample seating both high and low top tables. Drink and food ordering is done solely at the bar. You can view the menu on the board or on the website. Wide selection of Irish pub beers. All served exactly as you'd see 'back home' in Eire. The fish and chips was good. In the upper quartile of best we've had. The Cole slaw was ok not stellar. The hit of the table was the Shepards pie. It was the best ever had. The servers delivering food were pleasant and efficient as were the bar staff. Prices were very fair. We will return. read more

Last night, my partner had the Britain chicken pasta, and I had the spicy beef pasta. Both were extremely delicious and I highly recommend the Celtic gray on a regular basis. The beer is great. The mixed drinks are great and the atmosphere is wonderful. read more

2nd time going to the Ray, first time was with some coworkers and this time a larger group of friends. Last time we ate, all the food was good. I had an Indian dish and it was SPICY (They said it was) and others really enjoyed their meals. This time it was just drinks. Bar service, a jazzy band playing outside, we really enjoyed our time at the Ray. See you again. read more

I love this place. Food is authentic and delicious. Wait staff are always friendly and greet you as you enter. Owner Kevin stops by with a joke or two. Thanks read more

Cool Irish pub near my hotel so I walked over on Sunday and saw the July entertainment schedule. I suck at trivia so I decided to come by for comedy night. Tickets were $10 in advance or at the door,l. I arrived around 7:15 and was told I had to buy a ticket at the outdoor bar, show my receipt and they would let me in. So I bought a ticket and drink- I asked for a New York Sour so the ticket plus the drink was $18. Not bad. Now my drink didn't look like a typical NY sour as he had shaken the whole thing together, but that's ok. The flavor was correct. I entered the private event space and the host/emcee for the night got me a nice spot at the bar. I chatted with my bar neighbors and soon the headliner entered and sat right next to me! He was super energetic, with a dark witty sense of humor. They had scheduled a couple opening acts and the headliner was on for a short 30 min. All four of them were unique and I thoroughly enjoyed the show. During the show, I was taken care of by both bartenders. I enjoyed a whiskey sour (makers), a gimlet and a revolver. Everything was perfect. I did not eat as I had already had dinner but the menu there looks great! There is no specific cocktail menu but the bartenders are willing to make whatever you want and they didn't mind googling a recipe for the revolver. They've only been doing these ticketed shows for about 4 months but it seems to be going well. Half of the indoor bar and restaurant were open and the outdoor bar was also open for those who did not want to see the show. There's parking in the lot next to them or along the street. It's a bit weird the first time trying to figure out where the front door is. It's all the way around on the Nesbit Street side. I met the owner (Irish!) and his son, as they were part of the event. Super nice people- The Doyle's. The crowd was a mix of locals and out of towners like me. Everyone was friendly. It got pretty rowdy during the show and many people left right after, but the bar stays open til at least 1am. Bathroom for women is a single stall and was clean. I would recommend this place. Lots of interesting decor, nightly entertainment - see my pic for July, and great bartenders. read more

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Ordered the fruit and cheese plate paired with a Manchester tart. Delicious! The perfect afternoon treat. read more

Celtic Ray Irish Pub - Cheese & Fruit Platter - Irish Near Me - Punta Gorda, Florida

Been a while since we reviewed this spot and it just gets better with time. If you want authentic Irish Pub food an libation at its best, this is the place to go to. The fish and chips are superb as is anything else you might order. Give these folks a try even if your not Irish. read more

Food: 5/5 I ordered the chicken pasty was surprised by how delicious this was with the puff pastries cooked it just right. The chicken was tender. The potatoes were so creamy and had great texture. Service: 5/5 the bartenders, and the food runners were awesome! The bartenders were so patient and gave great recommendations! They were able to describe each item on the menu very well to allow me to make a good decision. As it was my first time here. The food runners were also cool and efficient and were very kind to keep me updated on my food without even being asked. Ambiance 5/5 casual outdoor bar with high tops and low top table. Will definitely be back! Highly recommend read more

Celtic Ray Irish Pub - Menu 10/24/24 - Irish Near Me - Punta Gorda, Florida

Love this place! Monday night music trivia, cold draft beer and fish and chips to die for. Add a side of Guinness gravy. Perfection.

Super fun restaurant. There is lots of outdoor seating and some indoor seating. You order at the bar whenever you are ready and the food came out pretty fast. Yummy food and great price. It definitely had the vibe of a pub and I love that the menu prices included sales tax. read more

Celtic Ray Irish Pub - Shepherd's Pie - Irish Near Me - Punta Gorda, Florida

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This is the last time I'm going to give out this secret. Celtic Ray has the BEST fish tacos in Florida! No skimping on the crunchy fish with a delightful pico., read more

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We have been stopping by for an hour or two to enjoy the beautiful weather and lively Irish music. We've been taking Freckles with us and she loves to say hi to all the friendly patrons! Delicious food, beautiful music- who could ask for more! read more

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Food was fantastic, service was quick and the staff very helpful. Next visit will be in the evening to listen to the music.

Really cool Public house. Lots of seating, huge bar, excellent food, great beer, friendly staff, it's just a good place to stop and eat and grab a pint of Guinness. We had shepherds pie and fish and chips and enjoyed every bit of it. Portions are hefty and worth every penny. The chips are phenomenal! For dessert we had Dublin tart - baileys and chocolate...yes please! If you like spicy ask for the hot sauces! Parking in the back and like a true traditional Irish pub, you order food at the bar. read more

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My go to for great entertainment. They put up some real good talent here, be sure to check out their schedule and book your visit. The owner Kevin is always quick with a joke. Be sure to have their Fish and Chips, you'll be happy you did. You're welcome. Sláinte. read more

Was talking about this place recently. Amazing! Fish was outstanding and the staff was great. 12/10

The fish and chips were excellent. My wife enjoyed the pastie. Prices include tax which was good. I've never been to Ireland, so I don't have a good basis for judgement but the place seems quite authentic to me. The place is huge and you have to place your orders for food and drinks at the bar. But they do bring it to you. read more

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We enjoy coming up to Punta Gorda and trying their wonderful restaurants. Today we stopped at Celtic Ray to meet some friends. Of course I had to have a Guinness and fish and chips which were tasty. They have a lot of outside seating and we had live music. read more

Celtic Ray Irish Pub - Scotch egg - Irish Near Me - Punta Gorda, Florida

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We went to Celtic Ray with tix to enjoy a stand-up comedy contest. Our seats were upstairs and the vibe was outstanding, including excellent service and upscale pub decor (bonus points for the super clean restrooms). The pub food really hit the spot. We enjoyed orders of Scotch eggs, leek-potato soup, and fish'n'chips. Also took home a chocolate/bailey's tart dessert. While it's rare we trek down to Punta Gorda (from Bradenton), this pub could easily draw us back into town. read more

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First time visit. Great atmosphere! You order everything at the bar and they bring out to your table. Tried the Fish & Chips since it was supposed to be the "authentic" style. The portion of fish was large and was prepared outstanding, The chips, however, disappointed me, being just plain ol' soggy french fries...was expecting the proper Pub style steak fries. It was served with a nice coleslaw and Irish soda bread. Happy they offered Guinness 00 alcohol beer. Will try something different next time. read more

Having been to England, we understood the concept of ordering at the bar, so we didn't expect at table service. Our experience was almost ruined by two people holding eight empty chairs from other tables, for people that didn't show up for 45 minutes. But I soldiered on. The scotch eggs were fantastic, no green ring, the sausage was thin and crisp, not greasy, and the dipping sauce was a nice accompaniment, sharp and mustardy. The Breton chicken pasty is deeply flavorful, served with an extra spoonful of the cream gravy and Colcannon on the side. The fish and chips are excellent too, a nice big piece and hand cut chips. Sitting out in evening with a slight breeze is wonderful. read more

Been coming here for a long time, food never disappoints and always a great place to catch live music. Bartenders are quick, funny, and nice. read more

Fun place to dine outside! They also have good food and entertainment on weekend evenings! read more

Celtic Ray Irish Pub - Icelandic fish tacos and chips - Irish Near Me - Punta Gorda, Florida

Good traditional beer selection. Very poor service and management. Manager mad e a comment about a dog in the outdoor area after we cleared birdshi* to sit at a table. I didn't appreciate being singled out after being there several hours with multiple dogs.made a comment and minimized the tip. The bar staff wanted to fight. Low class group. The experience ruined anything good about the place. Stay away. Response to Carrie. Stand by my reviews accuracy 100%. Absolutely had to get through the bird poop. We had been at the same spot for a few hours. Some of the staff had even came over from the kitchen door they hung out at and pet the dog while it was in a lap. There were several other dogs in laps that evening. The individual that came over was snarky and singled us out (in the holiday season). The comment I made was foul but wasn't what you said. To show my honesty It did include a f bomb. Regardless, doesn't justify your staff's low class behavior. In addition you come back weeks later to respond and even try to do the woke shame me thing. Consumers communicate their opinions with dollars and public comments. I notice you guys respond angrily and unprofessionally to every negative comment or bad review? Seems to be a behavioral pattern . Shame on you. Stay classy. bréige Erik read more

I have so many great things to say about this place that I don't know where to start. Food- the curry dishes are incredible. Not the first thing you'd assume from an Irish pub but WOW. The service was literally impeccable . The bartenders were attentive and friendly, and the fellow patrons were forthcoming with how much they love this establishment. I loved the variety of seating- they have indoor, outdoor and rooftop. I've also heard they have awesome live music on a regular basis. Will definitely be back! read more

Four of us went yesterday to beat the Saint Paddy's day rush. We had the fish and chips and I have had them in Ireland, England, Scotland. The fish may have been the best I ever had so darn good. I guess it was Ray that was going around to tables, telling his joke About the doors seem like a heck of a nice guy. The ambience was like you were in Ireland having a dinner and a drink I would highly recommend going here. Just a really nice place. Service was good. Our maids were wonderful. Just a great place. Give it a try. read more

We went to the Celtic Ray to see our favorite band, Seven Nations. I have heard good things about Celtic Ray's food. It is a typical Irish Bar (a good thing!). Most of seating is outdoors. Two levels, both have bars and good views of music stage. First the music was awesome!!!! Some sound system issues, but that isn't always the venue. We both ordered the fish and chips. You order at the bar and it gets delivered to your table. The food took a long time. It was a good fish and chips. But not as exceptional as I had been told. Having said that, I. Came out very hot. Fish was crispy. Fries were fine. Atmosphere was fantastic. Great place to go to hear good music. We will be back for that. Hope they have Seven Nations again soon! read more

Love this place, enjoy sitting on the patio! All food and drinks are ordered at the bar and a server brings your food. Great Guinness pours and lots of others to choose from. Fish and chips was excellent and an ample serving. A little bit of Ireland in Punta Gorda read more

Celtic Ray Irish Pub - Irish Near Me - Punta Gorda, Florida

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The Celtic Ray is a cozy traditional Irish pub with a lively atmosphere and friendly staff. I had the fish and chips which were very delighting mix of crunchy and flakey with crispy chips. The only problem I would point out would be that you have to walk to the bar to order and there are no hand held menus, but other than that I would say it is an amazing establishment with an amazing atmosphere and some of the nicest people working there. read more