For the first time in more than five decades, generations of customers spent St. Patrick’s Day without a visit to Atlantic City’s iconic Irish Pub — and now questions remain about when, or if, the historic establishment will reopen.
The landmark bar and restaurant on St. James Place in the Orange Loop has remained closed since Jan. 2, when signs posted outside the building announced it was “Closed for Renovation.”
More than four months later, those signs are still hanging outside the 54-year-old business, and no reopening date has been announced.
State officials confirmed the pub’s ownership has been cited for multiple fire safety violations.
According to Lisa Ryan, spokesperson for the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, the state Division of Fire Safety issued violations to owner Cathy Burke earlier this year. As of April 2, the business had accumulated $66,000 in penalties tied to unresolved fire code issues.
Ryan said the matter remains active, limiting what the agency can publicly discuss.
Records obtained through a public records request show a November 2025 annual inspection identified several issues at the property, including deteriorating fire escapes, problems involving fire extinguishers and the sprinkler or fire suppression system, as well as an emergency lighting violation on a second-floor landing.
Under state fire code regulations, businesses are generally permitted to remain open while repairs are underway.
The Irish Pub, however, has remained dark since January.
The business posted a message on Facebook earlier this year stating it was closed for renovations and would provide updates later, but no additional information has been shared publicly since then. Calls to the pub reach a full voicemail box, while Google currently lists the establishment as “temporarily closed.”
Despite the uncertainty, city officials say they remain hopeful the legendary tavern will reopen.
Atlantic City spokesperson Andrew Kramer said the city understands renovations are taking longer than expected but ownership has indicated plans to resume operations once the work is complete.
“We look forward to this historic establishment welcoming patrons again, as it remains a valued destination for our residents and visitors,” Kramer said.
The Irish Pub has long been considered one of Atlantic City’s most recognizable gathering spots. The property reportedly operated as a speakeasy during Prohibition before being transformed into the Irish Pub in 1972 by Richard and Cathy Burke.
Known for its vintage décor, late-night atmosphere and old-school charm, the establishment has hosted generations of locals, tourists and celebrities over the years, including baseball legend Joe DiMaggio, who frequently stayed at the adjoining inn.
Today, the sprawling property includes a restaurant, bar and hotel decorated with memorabilia celebrating America’s late 19th and early 20th century history.
For many Atlantic City residents, the prolonged closure represents more than the temporary loss of a neighborhood bar — it marks an uncertain chapter for one of the city’s most enduring institutions.
