Funky Murphy’s
Photo/submitted
By Lauren B. Schiffman, Contributing Writer
Marlborough/Worcester – For many, the terms “Boston” and “Irish” are a natural fit. In fact, when he was 18 years old, Dessie McKane relocated to Boston from Dublin, Ireland.
Having had many years of bar and restaurant experience, doing everything from serving as a doorman to waiting tables and tending bar, McKane in 1994, along with longtime friend turned business partner Cal Dolan, took over The Abbey, a South Boston Irish bar. They sold it four years later, took a lease on Worcester’s Main Street and opened The Irish Times, which closed in 2008.
Fast forward 15 years to 2003, when McKane and Dolan established Funky Murphy’s on Worcester’s Shrewsbury Street.
“We wanted to bring a modern, contemporary theme to the traditional Irish bar,” McKane said, “and we wanted to stand out from the other restaurants on Shrewsbury Street.”
To do that, they developed a menu that would be attractive to those not only seeking traditional fish and chips and shepherd’s pie, but a range of typical “bar food,” including nachos, crab cakes, soups, salads, burgers and sandwiches.
When property at 31 Main Street in Marlborough became available three years ago, McKane and Dolan jumped at the chance to open the second location of Funky Murphy’s. The partners had a hunch that it would be a successful endeavor, as there were limited options for an establishment like theirs in Marlborough.
Like many restaurants and bars, Funky Murphy’s runs sports specials, including ten cent wings and tacos. It also hosts a Sunday all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet, which boasts omelets, bacon, French toast and other traditional breakfast fare.
Diners need not break the bank during a visit to Funky Murphy’s, though.
“We are very conscientious about everything we do – from pricing our meals to booking the entertainment,” McKane said. “Entrees run between $10 and $18, and customers are getting a very good product.”
In fact, the product is so good that several years ago, Funky Murphy’s chili earned McKane two awards in Marlborough’s annual Heritage Festival Chowder and Chili Challenge. (A cup of the Three Alarm Chili will run you $4; a bowl is $5.)
Daily food specials range from $5 to $9.99 and include a build-your-own burger or pizza; prime rib; fish and chips; and more.
Additionally, patrons are almost guaranteed to be entertained no matter when they dine; Funky Murphy’s hosts almost-daily live musical acts, DJs, trivia nights, karaoke and more. Next up is a $17.99 per person, all-you-can-eat Mother’s Day Brunch, for which reservations are recommended.
To view the menu and entertainment schedule, visit www.funkymurphys.com. Funky Murphy’s is located at 31 Main Street, Marlborough. For additional information, call 508-251-2771.
