When I announced to my friends at a party in the William that I'd been out to Tempe, most of them said something along the lines of "What were you doing out there? Looking for tyres?". Now I have to admit I didn't get it. My friends being city types view Tempe as some place you only go if you have to, or if you're 'lucky' enough to live there. It took some explaining that I was actually there to check out one of Sydney's best Irish pubs. And it's true, the Harp is one of the best in Sydney, despite, and I say this charitably, being in the back of beyond. Having cycled out there from Surry Hills I can categorically say that every turn of the pedals was worth it once I arrived and got stuck into a Guinness. Much has been said elsewhere in this guide about the quality of Guinness in various pubs in Sydney, so I won't harp on about it (harp - geddit?), but this was one of the finest I've had since leaving the UK. There's plenty of seating, some nicely tucked-away pokies (If you've GOT to have them, hide them I say), a covered verandah/bistro out back and a live music bar off to the left with plenty of space and a well-appointed stage. As with all Irish pubs, the walls and shelves (and ceiling) are lined with musical instruments, signposts, number plates and other Irish doohickeys, Most interesting doohickey here? Near the bar, above the doorway to the back bar sit two pairs of industrial ear defenders. Above them is a small, hand-inked sign which reads : "In case of loud volume, take one of these" enough said, I think.
review by: Jason

Judging by the voting and comments so far recieved, the Harp is a well-loved pub indeed! We haven't got round to reviewing yet, but rest assured we're looking forward to it. For now, feel free to add your own comments below.
review by: pubguide staff