Just a few minutes drive from the busy town of Naas, the Flanagan family's attractive traditional pub enjoys a serenely scenic location overlooking the Grand Canal and the boats moored in Sallins harbour.
But, although Lock 13 is a pleasingly old-fashioned pub in many ways, it is also a modern gastropub, serving good quality, mainly locally sourced food at reasonable prices - and with a choice of over 40 craft beers, from Ireland and abroad, to complement the food.
White walls and soft blue/grey window surrounds give the two-storey building a classily cheerful look, and this smart theme continues in some areas inside. The main bar is all dark-panelled wood, with large blackboards announcing the day’s beer specials, and menus offer a wide range of popular dishes from near and far, with an emphasis on meat from local craft butchers- a steak sandwich on the lunch menu, for example, and a 10 oz sirloin in the evening.
House specialities include their 'legendary' Hot ‘n’ spicy Chicken Wings and a 'pretty awesome' Burger served on a Waterford Blaa, and, while menus are not overlong, there's no shortage of choice. You'll find everything from Cooleeney goat’s cheese and chorizo salad to Thai chicken curry here, along with classic fish dishes like Kildare Brewing beer battered fillet of Kilmore cod and the carefully prepared food is served by very pleasant and friendly staff.
An outstanding drinks list has always had a strong Irish offering in all sections (except wine, of course) and, having opened the Kildare Brewing Co on site in 2017, Lock 13 became Kildare's first brew pub. Aside from their own brew, they have over 40 craft beers on offer, along with 21 Irish and International Gins, and 20 Irish Whiskeys, so this is a place where discerning drinkers will have plenty to keep them happy - and Lock 13 also lays claim to making the best cocktails in County Kildare.
An unusual, and enterprising, place, Lock 13 is well worth a visit.
