Once known for good beer selection and entertainment, it is still all that but also with solid pub food. The entertainment and community feel of the place is the #1 highlight. Open mic night gives young people a voice. Older musicians act as unofficial mentors - the best advice from one was to 'make me feel something!!' I love the art scene - and to me there is a special intersection of utility (maybe articulating an important message - or building a useful couch) --- and the beauty of that piece. How you put it together, how it looks and most importantly how it makes you feel when you sink into the couch or words. I have a lot of opinions and a lot to say. These days you really can't complain much - in the world you are a nag and in church you are labeled a legalist. The secret is if you say those things in a beautiful way or tip toe around a subject asking questions and letting the audience come up with their own conclusions. The young people today I have lots of sympathy for. The 50 year olds could get away with earning $50k/yr - the 40 year olds could get away with earning $100k/yr but the 20 and 30 year olds in the bay area with 2 kids need to earn $200k in their household to make ends meet. Gentrification is the enemy - those who are 'rich.' Lets blame the boomers. Maybe there are some other 'enemies' of the unaffordable nature of the bay area. A witch hunt aiming at tech workers or the unhoused or maybe today AI robots. My brother pays $4000/month for babysitting. I think his house tax is another $1000/month and we aren't even talking about the mortgage yet.... In San Francisco a family of 4 can qualify for free babysitting if they earn $178,300 or less per year. Maybe you can't call this the poverty level - but you qualify for everything including housing assistance. I'm sorry no beautiful poetry for you today. No lit slam. No soup for you!! I will continue building my couches - you take the stage!! read more

Starry Plough....Oh wow! This is really a cool scene. There's a different event seven nights a week. Today the day after July 4 celebration is sort of an Irish music session in the place is packed at 5:45 PM! Great musicians and a fun atmosphere, but it seems like the same continuous song plays between breaks with a slight adjustment of the melody. Sort of a hypnotic repetitive groove, not so unlike "ON THE CORNER" by Miles Davis but not really, ha ha! OK kids, please plug that into your little machine and have a listen. Feel that groove in "BLACK SATIN" The Starry Plough is a full service restaurant, pub and nightclub that has been a staple of the East Bay scene since 1973. With deep roots as an Irish Revolutionary watering hole, the history of protest runs as deep today as it did when they opened five decades ago. And they have really good food and a great tap beer list. Also, the very best bartenders and staff throughout! I just had a half order of the handcut french fries and they really are top-notch man, they're served with different condiments that you can help yourself to. I chose the Sriracha sauce and ketchup. I couldn't find the horseradish tonight. I've been coming in here for several years and I really dig it. Very special people hang out here, kind of a hippie Berkeley vibe. I've had great long conversations and met very groovy folks. It's a great watering hole. read more

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I've always been eyeing this place whenever I pass by and finally got the chance to come in for my friend's show! A super cool Irish pub that offers lots of draft beers on tap as well as food to pair it with. Unfortunately we weren't able to try their food however the food we saw pass by us from other people looked amazing and smelled equally as great so we will definitely come back for some grubs. Keep in mind, the kitchen does close early (around 10pm-11pm) and does NOT stay open until 2AM, only the bar does. In terms of service, the bartenders were super sweet and quick on their feet. Good job ladies! The inside of the pub was pretty much filled to the brim with people and I can only assume it's because of UC Berkeley's finals week. This spot as well as the surrounding area caters to a lot of students so expect a pretty poppin bar during the weekends! read more

The Starry Plough - Music Venues Near Me - Berkeley, California

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I was looking for an excuse to patronize this Irish pub and thought I found one when I started developing a wintertime hankering for Irish coffee. Alas, when Jamie W and I popped over after our gym routine, we asked for one only to discover they don't have a full liquor license by choice. The owners want to keep the peace with their mostly residential neighbors. I get it, but I did miss my whiskey. Instead we got our $11 pints of Guinness and we most certainly weren't disappointed (Photo 6). In fact, it got us in such a Gaelic mood that we decided to have lunch here and ordered the $18 plate of Corned Beef & Cabbage. It was a welcome sight when it arrived, but I have to share that the four thick slices were on the tough side. The cabbage and braised carrots were gratefully better. The standout though was probably the mashed potatoes topped with green onions (Photo 8). That was because it reminded me of comfort food from the days of yore since my yore is further back than most. The vibe was certainly convivial enough, though we were here just after they opened on Saturday. I imagine it must get quite festive when there's live music and the community gathers. FOOD / DRINK - 3 stars...corned beef kinda tough, whiskey was missing AMBIANCE - 3 stars...definitely a pub but too early to enjoy SERVICE - 3.5 stars...the guys are nice here TOTAL - 3 stars...well check them out when musicians are in the house RELATED - Exploring Berkeley? Here's my collection of places l've patronized and reviewed: https://yelp.to/45MBYEe_XO read more

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I went here the other Sunday for a quick minute or so with a few friends. Used to be a frequent flier here but not for a long time . Hasn't changed a bit I'll have to say . A pl as ce to listen have a beer a fish and chips ,Shepard pie or maybe a wine . Service is quick the atmosphere is definitely all Irish so I'm not never really noticed before but it's still fine with me .Lovely place singing going on and music right in downtown Bezerkly have to love it . read more

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Ok, Starry Plough..I see you! Recently one of my besties sent me a text and mentioned they were heading to the Starry Plough for an open mic night. Obvs, I attended! I hadn't been there in what seems like forever, and was pleasantly surprised to see such a cool presence of community show up. From stand up, to live music and spoken word, it was awesome to see such talented locals. There is also on the last Sunday of every month, Kid's Music. We recently attended this event and it was so fun. We ordered Cottage Pie, Homemade Chicken Strips with Fries/dipping sauces, and of course a Guinness. They had multi-color balloons to blow up, and two artists came and sang with instruments/passed out music shakers for the kiddos/and story time too. It was such a fun and interactive experience for the whole family to enjoy. Looks like they have programming everyday of the week too! From Irish dance, trivia, Grateful Dead Jam Sesh, and more..can't wait to come back again soon for their fresh taps, community vibes, and those yummy fries. Would love to try the House Mac & Cheese too. read more

Great community of folks here & especially love coming for trivia nights hosted my Ms. Jenna!! It's a blend of old time regulars, college kids, artists and everyone in between is welcomed. There's a variety of events hosted making it a real staple and cultural hub. The bar serves up beer, cider, wines and some non alcoholic options like tea and soda, while the kitchen cooks up classics like fish & chips, Mac & cheese, and a rotating menus of deliciousness. The compassionate crew tops it off and deserve recognition for all their hard work! read more

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This place is fantastic and always been fantastic. Hasn't changed in decades which is just great. Best fish and chips any where. And of course a well well poured Guiness (just wish they could somehow get Murphys, or Beamish...). Went there for St. Patrick's Day last week for first time, and literally best St. Paddy's Day I've ever had (and I am old... and had a few...). Fantastic music, incredibly positive ambiance, particularly in these horrible times, was so great to just enjoy the music, the people and the night. Just people of all types having a good time, no weirdness, no weird male/female weirdness, just positive vibes had by all. I've been raving about this to everyone I know since the night. Thank you to the owners and employees, and musicians. You are awesome! Slàinte! read more

Great local Berkeley bar serving beer and wine only. There's also spoken word on Wednesday nights. I ordered the fish and chips and fried chicken wings. I also enjoyed a glass of Cabernet and a singha beer draft. Yum. read more

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I went for the Poetry Slam. I impulsively volunteered to be a judge but it would've been more fun if I hadn't-- be forewarned that if you sign up to judge you gotta be present the whole night. Overall, it was a good time! I enjoyed a cider. read more

Traditional music night is truly a gem! We enjoyed the songs, the storytelling, and the camaraderie even as we visited from out of town. Terrific Fish N Chips and a full bar. Lovely to see the active community in this family-run place. Come for the culture, return for the community! read more

Best bar in Berkeley! I do wish they had a vegan dinner option--if they served an impossible or beyond burger I would eat it very regularly with their excellent fries. read more

The Starry Plough is the kind of place that makes you feel like a regular the moment you walk through the door. This family-owned treasure in the heart of Berkeley has a warmth and authenticity that's becoming harder and harder to find. From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed like old friends. The staff are genuinely kind, attentive, and clearly love what they do. It's not just service--it's hospitality, and it shines through in every interaction. Whether you're popping in for a pint, enjoying a meal, or catching some live music, the vibe is always inclusive, lively, and full of heart. The food is great (don't skip the shepherd's pie), the drinks are well-poured, and the space feels alive with history and community. It's a place where stories are shared, kids dance to the music, and neighbors connect. You can feel the family roots in everything--from the cozy decor to the way the staff remembers your name. If you're looking for a spot that represents the true spirit of Berkeley--artsy, welcoming, and full of soul--The Starry Plough is it. We'll be back again and again. read more

Had an amazing time with my kids celebrating here on St Patty's Day! Great food and drink menu, authentic. Super organized staff! Great ambiance. Easy street parking. read more

The Starry Plough - Music Venues Near Me - Berkeley, California

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Stopped in for St Paddys day festivities earlier this year and they did not disappoint- great atmosphere

One of my favorite spots in the east bay for live music both as a musician and an audience member. Any night of the week serious local talent is on display. Also one of the few places to get a proper snakebite or black and tan. read more

A very fun place with great atmosphere and good food. They even serve Smithwick's Ale.

Here for Irish dancing and it is lovely! Surprisingly great NA options. Service was quick!

I have been to The Starry Plough Pub during several Saint Patrick's Day Celebrations. This is an Irish bar with reasonable prices (for this day and age). I was able to find a dry cider--yum! What a celebration this 2023 Saint Paytrick Day was!!! It was standing room only. They had Irish bands, Irish dancers, and it was an open mike for singing Irish songs. They offer foods like Corned Beef and Cabbage, Fish and Chips, and Bacon Cheseburger, but we had dinner before going there. They looked good, though. The Starry Plough is a hangout for Irish and Irish wanna bes. They have live music, Irish music, and even Irish dancing. read more

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Fun neighborhood Irish bar. Friendly helpful bar staff and the kitchen looked good! Live music and lots of space. I will be trying the food next time. They have CBD drinks which is a nice option to have. read more

Absolutely baller Irish dancing night. I also love that you can stash your bag behind the bar to keep it safe while dancing. Solid beer menu. Didn't try the food. read more

This place is awesome. They have fantastic food and great selection of drinks. Everyone is supper nice and friendly. Great music and a perfect way to spend a night. read more

The Starry Plough - Music Venues Near Me - Berkeley, California

My second time here for a live performance and it sure was lively. The stage is amazing and sound quality is too. Little light on the bartenders but service was good. read more

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once again and always . a true bay institution . legacy poetry music and beer . need more said ? read more

The Starry Plough is a good neighborhood bar with great fries, but the set up for events and other food can be a bit meh. I came in on a Wednesday night for a veggie burger from my nearby hotel and had no idea where to order or how things worked since it was more of a bar than a place to eat. Thankfully a very friendly bartender saw my bewilderment and helped me out by directing me to the far counter with the register where I could order. There was a hockey game on TV and I think background music. The Irish was all over the walls and other than bar seating, there were a few tables and chairs. My food came out pretty quick, but I was the first to order before a ton of people showed up for the poetry slam later on and they looked like they had a wait. The veggie burger was black bean and I think quinoa based, but had so much jalapeno in it I found it mostly inedible (was pretty hungry so I had just a small amount of patty and lots of bread, leaving 3/4 of the patty on the plate). The fries were on-point! Loved the crisp, skin on fries, but didn't appreciate the dregs of the bag being included (little strips of fried potato skin). While the poetry slam was advertised for 8pm, which I waited for and then passed, it still hadn't started by 8:35 and I gave up. The lady in front collecting funds noted they should have started already, as 8:30 is more typical but I had to get going with my night and the organizer was not looking like it was going to get started for a bit despite expectation setting with announcements. They had placed a bunch of chairs in front of their stage, which were mostly filled by the time I left, so popular event for sure. Unfortunately the sound people didn't really know appropriate levels for 10-15 minutes and the bass made me sick to my stomach. Good fries, beers and popular events await you at the Starry Plough, but come prepared for waits and maybe stay away from the veggie burger if you can't handle the inferno. read more

The Starry Plough - Plain veggie burger - Music Venues Near Me - Berkeley, California

Went here to hear Irish trad music with Shay Black, and it was wonderful. Like a real Irish pub atmosphere, old-timey yet hip. The french fries are delicious. Very good salads. So far, we've had shepherds pie, hamburger, & fish n chips, and it was all homemade and delicious. And they serve Guinness on tap, poured perfectly. read more

Coming from a wing addict+wing snob. The wings are top 10%. Crispy, decent meat, Buffalo very sauce was perfect, good blue cheese dressing and nice mix of drums and flats. Fresh cut fries. Service is on point...both bartender and cook. My son and his girlfriend enjoy live music here...and today was my first visit. My son and I played darts(yes two real.dart boards) and had a wonderful visit. read more

This is a badass place. Music is vibing. The bartenders are great! Ethan was our bartender and he was attentive and a super great guy!

The Starry Plough is my local bar and what a great local it is. I haven't been before because I just had a kid, and times away are few and far between. However, I was recently here twice in a matter of just a few days. Once for a low key dinner on a funk Thursday and one for Fleetwood Macrame, a Fleetwood Mac cover band. They have live music every night here. Thursday is the only night where the is no cover. The DJ was spinning some tunes early on and we left before the band, but dinner was good! The fish and chips were solid, not too flavorful, but thick cuts of battered fish perfectly fried with freshly cut and fried potatoes. The roasted vegetables with homemade pesto were delicious! Great beer selection (only beer and wine here). The cover band was a $15 cover, and that was way too pricey. Although fun, the band was dece and I'm not quite sure was worth the $15 and spending a ton on drinks. I discussed with friends and we all agreed - $8, $10 tops is the most one should pay for an average cover band at a bar/venue. I think I may be more of a preshow drinks and eats local here unless that band is really enticing me to pony up the dough. But for that early evening beer and burger, The Starry Plough is a no brainer! read more

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Live music is enjoyable here while grabbing tap beer and maybe bar bites if one wants the munchies! It's a bit rundown and the music performers were senior. I thought it would be more of a hip kind of bar place. Darts shooting available. I looked up the ceiling randomly and there was a poster of a girl. That made me smile. Ah, the random things in life, makes it fun. read more

The Starry Plough - Smithwicks and live music - Music Venues Near Me - Berkeley, California

Great local bar, the open mic is one of the best in the Bay Area, bartenders are legit. Dog friendly!

I would not be writing this if I hadn't JUST received a denial of a refund for an event I had to cancel my ticket on back in OCTOBER! I bought the ticket on October 21, 2023, and I requested the refund on the day of the event due to illness, which was October 27, 2023. Today is MARCH 8, 2024!!! I finally got an email saying, "Sorry but we paid the band before this request was made." So you paid the band on the morning of the event? I would hope you'd have paid them by the end of the night, at the very least, but to email me at this point and give me this load of BS is inexcusable. I figured out back in November that I wasn't getting a refund, thanks for that. Why bother at this point? My health is still in decline months later, so I sure didn't need the reminder that I missed yet another event thanks to long COVID! I think I've said all I can say without the review being taken down for use of profanity, so in closing, even if I could travel to Berkeley, I'd skip The Starry Plough. It's far too cramped and the restrooms are horrendous, anyway. Here's the email I received, copied and pasted: Your refund request has been declined. Message from Starry Plough: "Sorry but we paid the band before this request was made." Event: Tempest's 35th Anniversary and Reunion Order #: 8105424159 Refund Request #: 15873999 Contact the organizer if you have any questions or view this order read more

Came on a poetry slam night with a date! Cute ambiance and tasty ciders for fair prices. The fries were a really good snack to munch on. Fairly big place, and really good service:) Would come again! read more

The Starry Plough - Cider - Music Venues Near Me - Berkeley, California

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They pour a great Guinness and have a rad team running the place. Live music and great food.

Got the fish and garlic chips. Tried the fries years ago and thought they were incredible and they still hold up. read more

The Starry Plough - Current Limited Menu. Got the fish and garlic chips. Great! - Music Venues Near Me - Berkeley, California

This is either my second or third visit as I have been here previously for other Brazilian music events. So when a friend asked me to join her, I jumped at the chance to go back to this cozy, intimate place for music, food and dancing. We got a great table with a great view of the stage (as I like to take photos/videos of the bands) and the prices for the drinks of beer and wine are reasonable. Ordered a pear cider and Lagunitas IPA for $12. Then I forgot to check in on YELP before ordering the drinks and discovered there is a discount upon check-in which I will save for my next visit. I noticed they have food here ranging from appetizers to burgers to sandwiches to pizza at reasonable prices but all I wanted tonight was a bag of chips. Luckily they had one plain bag left for $2 at the bar. I will have to try the food next time too! read more

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Starry Plow has great vibes. It's very much a friendly neighborhood bar with a community feel. They have live music and lots of cool social justice/activism oriented decorations. Because of that though, it's definitely a bar you go to when you're looking for social interaction and music, not when you're looking for somewhere to watch sports (there's only one TV). Food is average-above average bar food depending on what you order. I've had fish and chips there that were kind of bland and I've had mac and cheese with rosemary and a few kinds of cheese that was quite good. Happy hour is long which is a plus, but the deals aren't great which is a minus. You get a dollar off a drink but the drink has to be under $6 to begin with, which doesn't leave a great selection. Overall, not a bad place to go get a drink with friends but not my favorite. read more

The Starry Plough - Good mac and cheese, ok beer, great decorations - Music Venues Near Me - Berkeley, California

Tried their fish and chips, a couple of their burgers; (Mushroom & Swiss, bacon and blue cheese) the food is great, beers they serve, include both Guinness, and at least one Irish red; the atmosphere is comfortingly Irish-American, and it's a short drive, from the beautiful Berkeley Marina, and several hotels, near there, and in Emeryville; they even let me play harp there, with a quartet, in 2020, once! Thanks, Starry Plough! read more

Quite frank, place brought some disappointment impression from the minute we've stepped in, HOWEVER, polite and responsive service, deliciously cooked food, good tap and friendly party Irish atmosphere made me enjoy my time and want to come back. Thank you, guys, for being there since ..... 1972! Cheers. "Many will call me an adventurer - and that I am, only one of a different sort: one of those who risks his skin to prove his platitudes" - Che Guevara Sorry, but unfortunately change my mind to single star after visiting the place yesterday, Sunday, August 7 at 2:00 pm for delicious lunch, placing an order and waiting for one hour without that order even reaching to the kitchen. Left at 3 PM hungry and angry. No more! Done with this place. Let the revolution begin! read more

We checked out the Starry Plough Pub since I had 2 tickets to see some band Th 4/11/13. It's walking distance from Ashby Bart so you don't need to drive. They have a bar & sell food. B. got fried calamari $6 - he ate a bunch & gives it 2 stars, it was crispy, but didn't taste like calamari, I didn't try it. He also got 2 glasses of red wine - he seemed to like it. Band - was forgettable. Bring earplugs!! otherwise you'll go Deaf!! They charge you to hear the band - Not free. Sliding scale, I think she said $6-12 when we went. After that band we left, but there was suppose to be a bunch more until Midnight! If I lived closer maybe I'd go back, not in any hurry. read more

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