Griffins of Kinsale: The History Behind The Name

When South Pasadena Patch readers , they pondered potential names for the place. 

"Griffin's Public House," "Monroes Tavern South Pasadena" and "South Pasadena Shamrock" were just a few of the ideas thrown out there. 

It wasn't until just a month before the pub opened that owner Joe Griffin that the place would be called: Griffins of Kinsale. 

Where does the name originate? 

Hometown Pasadena's Kat Ward writes: 

Great Grandfather Griffin sailed from Kinsale, County Cork, Ireland in 1890. He landed in Montreal and began a successful tent and tarp business, repairing sails of the ships at port. Joe [Griffin] is working on the organizing a collection of paintings and photographs to adorn his pub that will tell the tale Griffins of Kinsale.

Kinsale is now, reportedly, considered the gourmet capital of Ireland. Even though he’s 5,000 miles away from his ancestral home, Joe is endeavoring to compliment this tradition. To that end, he has employed Andreas Moya as his executive chef. Moya learned his Irish chops from working at the Fiddler’s Green in Orlando, Florida. Joe states his favorite item on the menu is the Shannon Salmon, then quickly adds the lamb stew, followed by Moya’s award-winning Shepherds Pie.

For the full article, click HERE. 

Patch Asks: Have you been to Griffins of Kinsale? Were you aware of the history behind the name?