Dining Out: Cook McDoogal's Irish Pub (Kokomo, IN)

Pictured: Culture.

Exterior: 4/5

(Photo from the Cook McDoogal's Facebook page.)

The Cook McDoogal's storefront has been a classy addition to downtown since the restaurant opened. The awnings add and urban feel to to the old-world facade. Be warned that at a busy time of day - especially the lunch hour - parking might be rough. Aim for the parking garage around the block and you should be ok.

Ambiance: 5/5

Looking toward the front door of the restaurant from our booth.

It's nice to be in here. There's definitely pub decor, but it feels authentic instead of cheesy. (My husband loathes over-themed restaurants but he's always very comfortable here.) There are also little nooks to eat in that afford you some privacy. We were sad, though, that the restaurant seemed dead on a Wednesday night except for us and some folks at the bar who looked like regulars. I know downtown isn't the most hoppin' place in the evening, but I would like to see this joint be more of a destination.

Variety: 5/5

The Kraut Burger

Y's Guys Shepherd's Pie

In addition to the old-world staples (including our meals pictured here), Cook McDoogal's does cool stuff with American-restaurant fare like chicken and pasta and barbecue sauce. There are also taco options if you really can't stand the idea of the more standard pub food staples. Each category on the menu has a lot of neat options to peruse!

Quality: 5/5

Bavarian Bites

Not only is the menu extensive, but the composition of the dishes is well thought-out. Each item is clearly designed to be a good version of whatever it is. We got the Bavarian Bites appetizer, for example, and expected your standard restaurant soft pretzel nuggets. We were happy, though, that these were unique - fried in oil that made them taste like something from the fair. (I should note that we haven't always been as thrilled with the quality of the food as we were on this trip, so kudos to whoever is kicking things up a notch!)

Kid-Friendly: 3/5

Happy kiddo.

The restaurant didn't appear to have a kid's menu. Fortunately my four-year-old was perfectly content with a side order of Pub Chips. The waitstaff didn't seem at all surprised or inconvenienced by serving the kids. Given the nature of the restaurant and the activity around the bar I don't know that I would bring my littles with me after the standard dinner hour, though.

Would Eat Again?: Green Light

This was not our first Cook McDoogal's run and it won't be the last. We're always excited to see what's new and to enjoy our old favorites. In the past my husband and I have gone here on date nights just the two of us, and that might be the best way to enjoy the atmosphere. Then again, as long as the kids are content with milk and chips we might keep bringing the whole family.