Buckley's puts nightlife into (otherwise quiet) Center Moriches

If you’ve ever made the drive down Montauk Highway between Hampton Bays and Patchogue looking for loud music, a bartender or anything else associated with the bar scene, you may have been somewhat disappointed.

It’s about a 25-mile stretch, and although there are a handful of local taverns and restaurants with cocktail possibilities (as well as the venerable summer nightclub Casey’s in Westhampton Beach), finding a sizable venue that has the ability to provide televised sports action, live music, dinner and other weekly featured events can be a trying adventure. However, at the semi-center of this quiet crawl – appropriately in “Center” Moriches – is Buckley’s Irish Pub, and Buckley’s has a full calendar of things to do.

Not exactly new to the scene, this bar and grill reopened in September 2011 after closing after a fire in 2005. The pub’s return was affected by its location within a Brookhaven Town historic district (during the 19th century, an inn called the Long Island Hotel stood on the property), meaning any construction must strictly adhere to building rules required for necessary aesthetic compatibility.

Currently, Buckley’s is open and supplying such happenings as Trivia Night on Wednesdays (at 8 p.m.) and Karaoke Night every other Tuesday (at 9 p.m.), with a jukebox supplying music (there are regular appearances by DJs and live bands) and several large flat screen TVs poised over and behind the bar (viewable sporting events include Gaelic Athletic Association hurling and football, as well as American-based competitions). The feel, although everything within is updated, is one of a veteran venue, as ancient photos are framed and hanging in the dining section – all recollections of days long past. And for those who do decide to take on a meal: appetizers, salads and full entrees are available, including such Irish favorites as Bangers-and-Mash, Shepherd’s Pie and corned beef with cabbage. 

Buckley’s Irish Pub is at 386 Main St.; call 631-909-8330 for more information or online at facebook.com/BuckleysIrishPub.