• The glass of beer
  • Restaurant's patio

Murphy's Pub

Murphy's Pub

Welcome to Murphy’s Pub, established in 1969, where locals and students come together for a good time. Clifton’s favorite watering hole, Murphy’s Pub is a pleasure to drink in. Whether you want to enjoy the lively Pub atmosphere or find a quiet corner for yourself, Murphy’s has many nooks and corners for you to explore. Traditional steel tip dart boards, a pool table, 2 outdoor patios, and plenty of TVs to catch the game, Murphy’s Pub has that relaxed neighborhood vibe you are looking for. 16 draft beers including Guinness on tap, and always plenty of Jameson, the friendly attentive staff will make you feel right at home. Stop on by for a quick pint or stay for a while, we are open 365 days a year and we’re bigger than we look. We hope to see you soon, Slainte!

Established in 1969, Murphy's Pub is a place where neighbors & friends, young and old gather to share good times! Murphy's is a cornerstone of the neighborhood, serving Clifton Heights and the University of Cincinnati community for over 30 years. A long legacy of customers and proprietors has passed through its doors over the years. Neighborhood regulars as well as the famous and infamous have added to the Pub's legacy.

The building that is home to Murphy's Pub has a long and intriguing history. Originally established as Virgil Hahn's Restaurant & Bar in 1938, where the first drinks were poured, twenty years later, the business changed hands and names. Charles Mahoney took over the business in 1958, putting his name over the front door. Even with a new name, the flavor of the establishment stayed the same, a local watering hole with room for everyone. Mahoney retired in 1969 and sold the business to two young men, a local by the name of Bailey and an Irishman known as Murphy. Not much is known about the mysterious Mr. Murphy. Shortly after taking over the business, he is believed to have returned to Ireland for a visit only to disappear into the political troubles of the time. To honor his lost partner, Bailey changed the name in 1970 to Murphy's Pub. As the years passed a variety of people have owned the Pub. Or rather, have been caretakers of the place that has become an institution in the neighborhood, known for excellent customer service. Not just a neighborhood bar, Murphy's Pub has become a favorite night spot with students attending the University of Cincinnati. Many alumni have stopped back to reminisce about the first time they discovered the friendly, low-key atmosphere found at Murphy's Pub. Whether on the walls or the website, many can still find a picture of themself 'Back in the Day'. Murphy's has had several brushes with greatness. Celebrities and local sports figures occasionally drop by. Former University of Cincinnati basketball coach Bob Huggins and former Red's star Chris Sabo have been served here. And in 1989, a small unknown grunge band played the back bar along with their opener Grinch. Friday, October 6, 1989, Nirvana played the back bar of Murphy's Pub. Listen to the original recordings here. Stop in and become part of the Murphy's Pub legacy. Young or old, new to the neighborhood, or lived here all your life, Murphy's Pub is open every day and ready to continue the tradition.