Special: Kelly’s Irish Pub Ulm (Baden-Württemberg)

Hey… another Kelly’s? Didn’t we just have one? That’s right—but they’re over 2,000 km apart. In our special post three months ago, we reported on Kelly’s Irish Bar in Rhodes – this time we’re traveling in southern Germany. As you’ve probably noticed, Nico is originally from Baden-Württemberg – and was once again visiting his former university town of Ulm. Mainly to visit the Christmas market, actually… but as we all know, a good Guinness at the end of the day is always welcome.

Kelly’s in the Danube city of Ulm is located right on the edge of the central Münsterplatz square. It extends over two floors, and it’s definitely worth making your way upstairs. This is where the main area of the pub is located, with significantly more space than on the relatively cramped ground floor, and there is also a spacious bar with plenty of seating. There is also a stage on the upper floor, where music is regularly performed.

We took a seat at the bar and one of the three bartenders on duty that evening immediately brought us the menu and asked us what we would like. Nico started with the obligatory Guinness. His father, who was accompanying him this time, fancied a hot Irish coffee. While we were enjoying our first drinks, we had the opportunity to take a closer look at the premises.

The central bar sits like a large oval in the middle of the room, not at the edge as in most pubs. The dark wood furnishings and numerous decorative elements on the walls are striking. Dozens of whiskey bottles are lined up below the ceiling. Old books, lamps, and signs surround them. This, combined with the green-accented lighting around the bar, creates a warm, convivial atmosphere. As a result, the pub feels surprisingly cozy despite its size.

When there are no events taking place, Kelly’s usually plays very pleasant classic Irish folk music in the background. That would have been nice… but on the evening of our visit, extremely loud bass sounds (presumably from the building next door) penetrated the pub, partially drowning out the Irish music and somewhat killing the mood.

Speaking of events, Kelly’s hosts a number of regular events. These include a weekly pub quiz for teams of 2-7 people (€1 per person entry fee), which takes place on Mondays. In addition, there is a karaoke night every two weeks. On the first Friday of every month, there is an open stage for artists who want to show off their skills.

Drinks

Freshly tapped from the barrel at Kelly’s in Ulm are the classics Guinness and Kilkenny, as well as Hop House 13 Lager. To Nico’s delight, Newcastle Brown Ale is also on offer, which became the second round of beers of the evening. Also on tap: Bavarian Obendorfer Helles. All of these beers are also available in 1.5-liter pitchers on request. Allgäuer Büble, Jever Fun, and non-alcoholic Guinness 0.0 are available in bottles or cans. A pint of Guinness costs €6.80 here.

The selection of cider is much smaller than in some other pubs. Only Stowford and Bulmer’s are offered – the latter in apple, pear and berry varieties. However, there are numerous mixed drinks with cider and beer – for example, an exciting-sounding “Snakebite Green,” which is a mixture of cider, lager and Blue Curacao.

Our favorites, Baby Guinness and Irish Flag, are also on the menu.

When it comes to whiskey, you can get an impression of the range right at the bar. Behind the counter are numerous bottles of Irish and Scottish whiskeys such as Aberfeldy’s, Redbrest, and Alvenie. Although only the “standard” varieties are listed on the menu, there is a note on a special menu or advice from the bartender. The separate whiskey menu actually lists almost 70 whiskeys from the British Isles, each described in detail with its origin and flavor profile.

Food / Snacks

Unfortunately, we had already enjoyed a hearty dinner at the Ulmer Pfannkuchenhaus before visiting the pub, so we arrived already full. In hindsight, this was a shame, as Kelly’s menu offers a wide selection of Irish classics such as shepherd’s pie, lamb pie, fish & chips, and Irish stew. The latter is even available in a vegan version on request. The menu also includes burgers, sandwiches, and salads. We plan to try the food on our next visit! Guests praise the quality highly in Google reviews.