Restaurant Reivew
Rula Bula
Rula Bula is a longtime favorite Irish Pub in Tempe's lively Mill Avenue district. Out of the numerous pubs in the Phoenix metro area, Rula stands out for their delicious food menu and authentic decor. The pub has won numerous awards over the years and continues to be a favorite amongst both locals and tourists.
Food
Rula Bula offers a very diverse menu with options for everyone, including a number of great vegetarian and gluten-free choices.
I recommend starting your meal with a few appetizers, particularly the Irish potato skins which are topped with sour cream, cheddar cheese, scallions, and rashers (Irish bacon).
You will find all sorts of salads, sandwiches, burgers, and wraps on the menu. Of course, you can always opt for a traditional Shepherd's Pie, Fish and Chips, or Irish Bangers and Mash. Rula Bula is really allergy friendly, even offering a vegetarian Shepherd's Pie and a number of GF entrees and sides.
The fish and chips here are wonderful and a pretty large serving for just 10 bucks. The mac and cheese is a real treat- so creamy and delicious. You can add a number of toppings including chicken, shrimp, rashers, or a vegan Beyond Meat substitute.
Service
Service was just average, pretty slow due to the intense crowds after a Mill Avenue event. Our server was still very friendly and even gave us a free appetizer because it took so long.
Atmosphere
The ambiance inside is very pleasant with rustic charm and a cozy appeal. The walls are lined with many Irish relics that were imported directly from Ireland.
This place can get really busy and a bit too noisy, especially after an area event. If you are not a fan of crowds, I recommend visiting during the week, preferably in the afternoon. They also have a nice patio, which is great when the weather is not over 100 degrees.
The name Rula Bula was chosen by the owner due to its' Old Gaelic meaning which translates into "uproar and commotion," which is a fitting title considering the number of live music events and the lively ambiance.
Final Remarks
Rula Bula is a great choice for anyone seeking Irish style comfort food in the Phoenix area. St. Patrick's Day or not, Rula Bula is sure to please even the pickiest diners with its' diverse menu and eclectic interior.
