Dunn-Gaherin's Food and Spirits, Newton

Really horrible people running this place. Bad working conditions, manager used to eat off of plates in the kitchen before we'd take them out and spit in customers' beers...really horrible and dirty environment. Abusive, violent women in control here and it's really too bad. For a local dive, it could be okay. Stay far away!!!

Dunn-Gaherin's is great little place. Many of us from our office often frequent here, whether to discuss a little business over lunch or simply to have an after work drink. It is a small, very quaint establishment offering great food, fun, and a friendly staff. Often times, it can become quite busy after work. Parking is limited with very few spots in their parking lot, but you can usually find plenty of space in the surrounding area.

A reasonably-sized "U-shaped" bar combined with a smallish-restaurant. You can eat at the bar or at the surrounding high tables if you prefer, particularly if you don't mind being included in many spontaneous conversations. Simple food, generally done well although quality can suffer when it is really busy. The menu tends to pub fare such as burgers, steaks, and comfort foods such as meatloaf, fish & chips, and pot pie. Prices are reasonable for the quality of the food. Service generally is excellent and the waitresses and waiters are knowledgeable about the food and honest about what's good that day. They also are quick to correct any shortcoming so, if you have a problem, mention it and it will be taken care of. On the negative side, it often is a little loud and boisterous, and can get crowded in the bar area. If you're looking for a quiet, romantic spot, this is not it on busy days. However, it is lively and a very pleasant, upbeat place to spend a few hours on a cold night. Although we don't live near D-Gs, we consider it to be our "neighborhood" restaurant and we eat there at least once a month. There are about eight parking spaces adjacent to the restaurant but most parking is on the street or one-half block away at the parking lot adjacent to the traffic light.

How is it possible that I've lived in Newton for over 10 years and am now just finding this place? The food was great. We had a party of 8 so we had the opportunity to sample much of the menu. Kids meals (dogs and pasta) were very well received. The ice cream sandwiches that followed were just the icing on the cake! Adults enjoyed entrees, pasta dishes, burgers and salads. The portions were very large and we didn't leave a bite. And if the eggplant french fries weren't the most delicious thing I've ever eaten, then I don't know what is. Well maybe the bread pudding!!! The staff (and owner) were extremely friendly. The place was packed. Not an open seat the whole time that we were their, yet we treated like friends. It took me 10 years to discover this place. It won't take me 10 days to get back their.

For a great evening for 2 or for the whole family it is a great place to get away. The food is terrific. Really homemade. The staff is absolutely terrific. Very helpful. The atmosphere is very quaint. Warm and cozy.