About Us

About the Ryans

When Hamilton, Ohio was enjoying a healthy economy in the 1950's and 60's, it was home to many businesses, stores, and family-owned eateries such as Nichting's Supper Club, Isgro's Italian Restaurant, and Jonson Brothers' Restaurant. We were born and raised in Hamilton during that time. Our first fancy dinner date was at Nichting's. Our first New Year's Eve as newlyweds was at Isgro's. Now the former Jonson Brothers' Restaurant is part of Ryan's Tavern.

We were strong advocates of downtown revitalization long before Don became the first directly elected mayor of Hamilton since 1927. Our resolve increased as our six sons graduated from college and, driven by the slow economy, located in other parts of the state and country. After years of working and praying for other businesses to relocate here, one of us (Vickie) suggested that the other (Don) use his long-time dream of opening an Irish Pub as a catalyst for economic development. In October 2006 we bought the High Street properties that are now Ryan's Tavern to spark revitalization and to continue the Hamilton tradition of family-owned establishments.

Our mission for Ryan's Tavern is to fill a need for a quality restaurant and bar in downtown Hamilton with consistent top-rated cleanliness, consistent top-rated food and drink, and consistent top-rated customer service.

Our vision of Ryan's Tavern is of a quality Irish Pub. We are both of proud Irish descent—Vickie's mother, Rose Eileen Sherlock Ganz (County Cork); Don's father, Vance Cornelius Ryan (County Tipperary.) We know that a true Irish Pub goes beyond restaurant and bar excellence. It's a gathering place for everyday conversations, for meetings and banquets, and for entertainment through Irish music, sports television, and live musical appearances as arranged.

The restoration of our 1890 building was handled with meticulous care. The original brick walls still stand on the west side of the dining areas. The Shamrock Room on the first floor has its original arched plaster ceiling. The second floor 1921 Room has its original tin ceiling chandelier medallion. The Shamrock room is well suited for business meetings, book clubs, teas and other gatherings with seating up to sixteen (16.) The more formal 1921 room, with seating for twenty (20) is perfect for rehearsal dinners, graduation celebrations, and other private dining occasions.

Our first floor furniture and grand staircase are solid cherry. The booths, tables, and chairs were handmade by local Amish crafters. Both the first and second floors have stone fireplaces and both bars have twelve taps. In the Irish tradition, the first floor has two "snugs" (areas with more privacy than general seating.)

Whether you're visiting us for breakfast or a late evening snack, whether you've come for a special night of entertainment or a take-away (the Irish carryout), whether you are a Hamilton area friend or an out-of-state stranger-soon-to-be-friend, we welcome you warmly.

Thank you for choosing Ryan's Tavern- an Authentic Irish Pub.

Vickie and Don Ryan
Proprietors