Maine is full of history. It doesn’t matter if you live in a small town or one of the larger cities, it seems that every building, every shop, every person has a story to tell about life before we got here. That’s just one of the beautiful things about living here. We’re always on the hunt for the interesting backstories of local spots and this one is a favorite! It doesn’t hurt that visiting also means a great meal.
Bull Feeney’s in Portland offers exactly what we’re looking for in a pub - great food, good drinks, and live music. But a lot of people don’t know that the history of this local favorite is fascinating.
GaryVanNuysCA / TripAdvisor
The story starts back in 1878 when John A. Feeney moved from County Galway in Ireland to Portland Maine.
Cody Smith / Google
He soon opened a grocery store that housed a secret saloon inside. While fun was the goal, it was also meant to be a place welcoming to immigrants like John.
Chris Barr / Google
Over time, he opened four more of these “saloons.” Here, immigrants could meet other people and get help settling in. John also helped them register as citizens and voters.
Bull Feeney’s / Facebook
John had a son who played football for a local Portland high school. He earned the name “bull” by the way he put his helmet on his head and charged through the line.
Bull Feeney’s / Facebook
Today, Bull Feeney’s borrows from the family legacy. The name is an homage, but the pub is still a gathering place for people to meet and surround themselves with friendly faces.
yves delhalle / Google
They’ve always been known for their live music. And their food is great, too!
Bull Feeney’s / Facebook
They have a full pub menu, but they’ve made sure to feature some Maine favorites like this lobster roll.
Caitlin V / TripAdvisor
And they serve a mean brunch. But, whatever you’re here to enjoy, remember the history of kindness and acceptance that made it all possible.
Bull Feeney’s / Facebook
Bull Feeney’s is open Thursday through Saturday from 5 p.m. to midnight and on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Their hours have changed recently and might fluctuate throughout the rest of the year so be sure to check out their website or follow them on Facebook for the latest. They can be reached at 207-773-7210.
GaryVanNuysCA / TripAdvisor
Cody Smith / Google
Chris Barr / Google
Bull Feeney’s / Facebook
yves delhalle / Google
Caitlin V / TripAdvisor
Bull Feeney’s isn’t the only place with a story! Step back into history at Maine’s oldest standing tavern. It’s in Freeport!
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Address: 375 Fore St #5010, Portland, ME 04101, USA
