Paul Dargan knows a thing or two about Irish pubs. His father and grandfather were pub owners in Ireland, and Paul had the good sense to cross the pond and open his own public house in Santa Barbara in 1997. Lively yet laid-back, tucked away just off the hubbub of State Street, Dargan's has everything you want in an Irish pub: Friendly bartenders and servers, sports on TV, pool tables, hearty food at reasonable prices, a good selection of pints and Irish whiskeys, and live music (check online for the schedule). Tap your toes or bust a move and then sit in the large bar area, separate dining area, or outdoor patio and dig into such classics as Harp-battered fish and chips, shepherd's pie, and corned beef and cabbage. You can't go wrong with the daily $8 lunch specials or bargains on food and drinks during happy hours Monday through Friday (4–7pm) and Saturday and Sunday (1–4pm). Insider tip: Park next door in city lot #10.