mcdaid's seemingly effortlessly achieves "proper pub" status where so many others try too hard and fail. it all looks so simple, but grade aaa guinness, authentic friendly efficient bar staff and classic bar decor are all not easy to master. the pub is well practiced in these arts, celebrating its 80th birthday in 2016, and long may it continue. celebs often pop in - last time i was there, niall quinn was enjoying a couple of pints of plain at the bar, and thankfully no-one bothered him in the least, allowing him to enjoy his pints - an episode that sums the place up well - unpretentious, unassuming, classy.