Sneak peek: The Craic opens in SouthPark
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There are about 600 free parking spots. Photo: Laura Barrero/Axios
The Craic is now in its soft-opening phase in SouthPark.
Why it matters: The Irish-themed bar in the former Rusty Bucket space aims to be an all-day destination, working just as well for brunch, business meetings, dinner and late-night drinks.

The vibe: Polished but comfortable; designed to shift from daytime dining to a lively late-night bar.
- The 4,622-square-foot space seats nearly 200 people across multiple dining rooms. There are about 20 TVs strategically placed above the bar and in nearly every corner, so you don't have to change your posture to watch them.
- "This is a good spot to sit down, have a glass of wine or cocktails ... it's approachable but elegant," co-owner and general manager Parker Starre tells Axios, adding he hopes it'll become a third space for people — "an extension of their living room," he says.

Dig in: Its menu boasts a selection of comfort food, including pot roast, pork loin, trout and salmon. In tune with the bar's Irish theme, you can also find fish and chips and Irish stew. Plus, bar food like smashburgers, wings, pretzels and pizza.
- Brunch is served daily from 11am–2pm.

Sip on this: The bar features 31 taps with local and regional beers.
- There's also wine on tap, cocktails and nonalcoholic options.

If you go: To start, its hours of operation will be limited. Opening in soft-launch mode gives the team time to fine-tune service, menu execution and flow.
- The grand opening is April 15, after which it'll be open daily 11am–2am, with the kitchen serving until 1am.
- The Craic is at 4810 Ashley Park Lane.

