This edition of Excited about Eating takes us to Cornelius, NC and to Harp & Crown Pub Kitchen. This warm and comfortable pub features Irish favorites such as Shepherd’s Pie, Fish & Chips, and Bangers & Mash.

Rather unassuming from the front, but just wait!

Dora here. This front entrance does not give you a clue as to what to expect. Wait until you see the patio. Soooooo wish it hadn’t been raining. I would’ve loved to sit outside here. I counted three fireplaces!!

So wish it hadn’t been raining. I would’ve loved to sit outside. I counted 3 fireplaces!

The interior was nice and cozy. And packed for 11 AM on a Sunday!

The inside was nice and cozy. And packed for 11 AM on a Sunday.

For my brunch, I chose the Shrimps & Grits, a combo of Charleston style grits, shrimp, bacon, and chorizo sausage.

Shrimp and Grits, outstanding!

This dish was outstanding! Creamy grits, tender shrimp that melted in your mouth, ample sauce, and the sausage packed just the right amount of heat.

Are you drooling yet? Shrimp & grits, outstanding!

Dora here. Ya’ll know by now that I’m a huge fan of Shepherd’s Pie. If it’s on the menu, that’s what I’m picking. And since I’d seen an intriguing picture on Yelp, I already knew what I was ordering. Shepherd’s Pie. 🙂

For those of you who haven’t tried Shepherd’s Pie, it’s basically a layer of mashed potatoes smothering a blend of meat and veggies. In this case, hamburger and peas.

Shepherd’s Pie, what’s underneath that top layer of mashed potatoes

This particular version was not as thick as other variations, and, for me, it lacked a bit in the flavor department, nothing deep or complex in those layers. But that’s all good. Sometimes, like on this rainy day, you just want a dish to warm you up, comfort food, and Shepherd’s Pie is always a good choice. 

Happy St. Patrick’s Day! What’s your favorite Irish dish?

We rate this pub 4 forks out of 5 for a family friendly restaurant serving great food.