Curran’s Irish Inn Restaurant in Bensalem offers a delightful dining experience that perfectly captures the essence of traditional Irish hospitality combined with a contemporary culinary flair. Nestled in the heart of Bensalem, this beloved establishment has become a local favorite for both casual meals and special occasions.
The menu showcases a rich variety of classic Irish dishes alongside innovative American fare, ensuring there is something for every palate. Whether you’re craving hearty stews, fresh seafood, or a perfectly poured pint of Guinness, Curran’s delivers with warmth and authenticity.
Beyond just the food, the atmosphere at Curran’s Irish Inn is inviting and cozy, making it a great spot for family dinners, friendly gatherings, or an intimate night out. The staff prides itself on excellent service, creating an experience that feels personal and memorable.
With an extensive menu that caters to diverse tastes and dietary preferences, Curran’s Irish Inn stands out as a culinary gem in Bensalem’s vibrant dining scene.
Exploring the Curran’s Irish Inn menu reveals a commitment to quality ingredients and time-honored recipes, all prepared with a modern twist. From appetizers to desserts, every dish is crafted to satisfy and delight.
This deep dive into the menu will guide you through the various offerings, helping you make the most of your visit.
Appetizers and Starters
The appetizer selection at Curran’s Irish Inn sets the tone for a satisfying meal, featuring a blend of traditional Irish starters and creative interpretations. These dishes are designed to awaken the palate and complement the main courses that follow.
Popular options include the classic Irish Potato Skins, which are loaded with cheddar cheese, bacon, and scallions, served with a side of house-made sour cream. Another crowd-pleaser is the Guinness Beer Cheese Dip, a rich and creamy appetizer perfect for sharing.
For those seeking lighter fare, the fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing start.
The appetizers are thoughtfully portioned to encourage sharing, making them ideal for groups or couples. Each dish reflects the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, emphasizing the restaurant’s dedication to quality.
- Irish Potato Skins: Loaded with cheddar, bacon, and scallions
- Guinness Beer Cheese Dip: Served with toasted baguette slices
- Fresh Garden Salad: Mixed greens with seasonal vegetables and vinaigrette
- Traditional Irish Soda Bread: Served warm with butter
Signature Starters
Among the starters, the Curran’s Sampler Platter stands out as an excellent choice for first-time visitors. It offers a sampling of Irish favorites, including crispy calamari, mini shepherd’s pies, and Irish whiskey-glazed wings.
This platter provides a well-rounded introduction to the restaurant’s flavors.
“The perfect way to start any meal at Curran’s is with a shared platter that showcases the best of Irish pub fare.” – Local Food Critic
Soups and Salads
Curran’s Irish Inn offers a well-curated selection of soups and salads that provide both comfort and freshness. These options cater to those looking for lighter meals or a warming start on cooler days.
The soups are hearty and flavorful, often inspired by traditional Irish recipes.
The standout soup is the classic Irish Potato and Leek Soup, creamy and rich with just the right balance of seasoning. Another popular choice is the Beef and Barley Soup, which offers a robust and filling option made with tender beef chunks and garden vegetables.
For salad lovers, the Irish Cobb Salad combines crisp greens, smoked bacon, hard-boiled eggs, and blue cheese crumbles, topped with a zesty dressing.
All soups and salads are made fresh daily, with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients. The menu frequently updates to highlight local produce, ensuring vibrant and fresh flavors.
| Soup/Salad | Main Ingredients | Calories (approx.) |
| Irish Potato and Leek Soup | Potatoes, leeks, cream, herbs | 250 |
| Beef and Barley Soup | Beef, barley, carrots, celery | 320 |
| Irish Cobb Salad | Mixed greens, bacon, eggs, blue cheese | 450 |
Health-Conscious Options
For those mindful of dietary needs, Curran’s offers lighter salads and broth-based soups that are both nutritious and satisfying. The Baby Kale and Quinoa Salad is a popular choice, packed with antioxidants and dressed in a lemon vinaigrette.
Additionally, the vegetable soup of the day often features gluten-free and vegan ingredients, showcasing the kitchen’s versatility.
Main Courses
The main course menu at Curran’s Irish Inn is where tradition meets innovation. From iconic Irish dishes to American classics, this section offers hearty meals that satisfy a variety of tastes and appetites.
One of the most beloved dishes is the Irish Stew, slow-cooked with tender lamb, potatoes, carrots, and onions in a rich broth. It exemplifies the comfort food that Irish cuisine is known for.
For seafood enthusiasts, the Pan-Seared Atlantic Salmon with dill cream sauce is a fresh and flavorful option. The menu also features expertly prepared steaks, burgers, and vegetarian mains, ensuring broad appeal.
Each entrée is complemented by a choice of sides, such as colcannon mashed potatoes, seasonal vegetables, or crispy fries. The kitchen emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients and traditional cooking methods.
- Irish Lamb Stew: Slow-cooked with root vegetables and herbs
- Pan-Seared Atlantic Salmon: Served with dill cream sauce
- Curran’s Classic Burger: Topped with cheddar and house sauce
- Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie: Made with lentils and mushrooms
Pairing Suggestions
To enhance the dining experience, Curran’s offers expert pairing recommendations that match main courses with select Irish beers and whiskeys. For example, the Irish Stew pairs wonderfully with a pint of Guinness, while the salmon is complemented by a light Irish lager or a crisp white wine.
These pairings bring out the best in both the food and beverages.
“An authentic Irish meal isn’t complete without the perfect drink to accompany it, and Curran’s skillfully guides guests through these pairings.” – Head Chef
Seafood Specialties
Curran’s Irish Inn takes pride in its fresh and flavorful seafood offerings, which add a coastal Irish touch to the menu. These dishes highlight the quality and freshness of the ingredients, often sourced from local waters.
Featured dishes include the Fisherman’s Platter, a generous assortment of fried cod, shrimp, scallops, and clams served with tartar sauce and lemon wedges. Another favorite is the Irish Style Fish and Chips, featuring beer-battered cod served with crispy fries and malt vinegar.
For something lighter, the Grilled Shrimp Skewers offer a flavorful option with garlic and herb marinade.
The seafood menu is designed to appeal to all, from those wanting a traditional Irish pub experience to diners seeking fresh, expertly prepared seafood meals. These dishes are often paired with seasonal vegetables or creamy coleslaw.
- Fisherman’s Platter: Fried cod, shrimp, scallops, clams
- Irish Fish and Chips: Beer-battered cod with malt vinegar
- Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Garlic and herb marinated
- Seafood Chowder: Creamy soup with assorted seafood
Seafood vs. Meat Options
| Dish Type | Calories (approx.) | Flavor Profile | Cooking Style |
| Fisherman’s Platter | 700 | Rich, crispy, savory | Fried |
| Irish Lamb Stew | 650 | Hearty, aromatic, tender | Slow-cooked |
| Pan-Seared Atlantic Salmon | 520 | Fresh, buttery, herbaceous | Seared |
| Curran’s Classic Burger | 600 | Juicy, cheesy, savory | Grilled |
Vegetarian and Vegan Choices
Recognizing the growing demand for plant-based options, Curran’s Irish Inn offers a thoughtful range of vegetarian and vegan dishes. These meals are crafted with the same care and attention to flavor as the traditional Irish fare.
The Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie is a standout, featuring lentils, mushrooms, and root vegetables topped with creamy mashed potatoes. Another popular dish is the Vegan Irish Stew, which replaces lamb with hearty vegetables and protein-rich beans.
These dishes are hearty and satisfying, proving that plant-based Irish cuisine can be both authentic and delicious.
Additionally, many sides and salads on the menu can be prepared vegan upon request. This flexibility ensures that all guests can enjoy a full and enjoyable dining experience regardless of dietary preferences.
- Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie: Lentils and mushrooms with mashed potatoes
- Vegan Irish Stew: Seasonal vegetables and beans
- Quinoa and Kale Salad: With lemon vinaigrette
- Gluten-Free Vegetable Soup: Made fresh daily
Adapting Traditional Recipes
Curran’s culinary team takes pride in adapting classic Irish dishes to suit vegetarian and vegan diets without sacrificing flavor. Through the use of robust spices, fresh herbs, and innovative cooking techniques, these plant-based options maintain the hearty spirit of Irish cuisine.
“Our goal is to ensure every guest leaves satisfied, whether they prefer meat or plant-based meals.” – Executive Chef
Desserts and Sweet Treats
No meal at Curran’s Irish Inn would be complete without indulging in one of their decadent desserts. The dessert menu features a variety of classic Irish sweets alongside contemporary favorites that cater to all tastes.
The Irish Cream Cheesecake is a signature dessert, boasting a rich and creamy texture infused with the flavors of Irish whiskey and cream. Another beloved option is the Warm Apple Crumble, topped with a crunchy oat crust and served with vanilla ice cream.
For chocolate lovers, the Guinness Chocolate Cake is a moist and flavorful choice that perfectly balances sweetness with a hint of bitterness.
These desserts are perfect for sharing or savoring solo, providing a delightful ending to any meal. The use of premium ingredients and traditional recipes ensures that every bite is a memorable one.
- Irish Cream Cheesecake: Creamy, whiskey-infused
- Warm Apple Crumble: Oat topping, vanilla ice cream
- Guinness Chocolate Cake: Rich and moist
- Bailey’s Irish Coffee: Coffee with Irish cream liqueur
Dessert Pairings
Curran’s also offers dessert pairings that complement the rich flavors of the sweets. For example, the Guinness Chocolate Cake pairs wonderfully with a glass of Irish stout or a sweet dessert wine.
The Warm Apple Crumble is often enjoyed with a hot cup of Irish coffee or a spiced whiskey.
“Our dessert and drink pairings are designed to elevate the entire dining experience from start to finish.” – Bar Manager
Beverages and Irish Drinks
The beverage menu at Curran’s Irish Inn is as thoughtfully curated as the food, featuring an extensive selection of Irish beers, whiskeys, and specialty cocktails. This variety ensures that every guest can find the perfect drink to accompany their meal.
Classic Irish beers such as Guinness, Harp Lager, and Smithwick’s are available on tap, providing authentic flavors that complement the cuisine. The whiskey selection is impressive, with offerings from well-known distilleries as well as boutique brands.
For cocktail enthusiasts, Curran’s presents creative combinations such as the Irish Mule and the Shamrock Sour.
Non-alcoholic options include freshly brewed Irish teas, specialty sodas, and handcrafted mocktails. The knowledgeable bartenders are always eager to recommend drinks based on personal preferences and meal choices.
- Guinness Stout: Iconic Irish beer
- Jameson Irish Whiskey: Smooth and versatile
- Irish Mule: Whiskey, ginger beer, lime
- Freshly Brewed Irish Tea: Traditional and comforting
Comparing Popular Irish Whiskeys
| Whiskey | Flavor Notes | Best Paired With |
| Jameson | Smooth, slightly sweet, vanilla | Seafood, light desserts |
| Redbreast 12 Year | Rich, nutty, fruity | Beef dishes, chocolate desserts |
| Bushmills | Light, floral, honeyed | Salads, light appetizers |
“Pairing the right whiskey with your meal can transform your dining experience into something truly special.” – Beverage Director
Conclusion
Curran’s Irish Inn Restaurant in Bensalem offers more than just a meal—it provides a genuine taste of Irish culture through its thoughtfully crafted menu and welcoming ambiance. From the carefully selected appetizers and soups to the hearty main courses and decadent desserts, each dish tells a story rooted in tradition yet embraced with modern culinary techniques.
The restaurant’s commitment to quality ingredients, diverse dietary options, and expertly curated beverage pairings ensures that every guest leaves with a memorable dining experience. Whether you are a local or visiting Bensalem, Curran’s Irish Inn invites you to savor authentic Irish flavors while enjoying the warmth of a true Irish pub atmosphere.
For those seeking a destination that combines comfort, flavor, and hospitality seamlessly, Curran’s Irish Inn stands out as an exceptional choice. Its menu not only honors the rich heritage of Irish cooking but also embraces innovation, making it a dynamic and inviting place to enjoy a meal any time of the day.
