Walshs Shebeen

Walshs Shebeen

19 8th St SE
Mason City, IA 50401
(641) 494-5582
walshsshebeen.com

Tue
4:00pm–11:00pm
Wed
4:00pm–11:00pm
Thu
4:00pm–11:00pm
Fri
4:00pm–11:00pm
Sat
4:00pm–11:00pm

Tucked away in a historic printing warehouse, Walsh’s Shebeen is Mason City’s premier speakeasy-style craft cocktail bar. Designed for those who appreciate expertly crafted drinks and an intimate, upscale atmosphere, Walsh’s Shebeen offers a unique blend of historical charm, modern elegance, and refined mixology.

With a curated collection of over 200 spirits, including a remarkable selection of whiskeys, Walsh’s specializes in handcrafted cocktails featuring house-made bitters, cordials, and liqueurs. Whether you’re indulging in a perfectly balanced Old Fashioned, exploring rare and unique spirits, or discovering one of their seasonally inspired cocktails, every drink is crafted with precision and passion.

As a members-only establishment, Walsh’s Shebeen provides an exclusive yet welcoming experience, complete with private tastings, special events, and personalized service. From first-time guests to seasoned enthusiasts, those who step inside find themselves transported to an era where cocktails were an art and every sip told a story.

For an elevated cocktail experience in the heart of Mason City, Walsh’s Shebeen is the hidden gem worth discovering.

History


Founded in 2021

Walsh’s Shebeen was born from a passion for craftsmanship, tradition, and hospitality—and a desire to bring something truly unique to North Iowa.

In September 2021, just one week after returning from a deployment to Kosovo, Army veteran Chris Burk received an unexpected phone call offering him the chance to start his own bar. With a background in Orthopedic Surgery and Sports Medicine, he had been considering returning to medicine, but his deep-rooted passion for bartending, mixology, and service pulled him in a different direction.

Chris had bartended through college in Iowa City’s busiest bars, learning the high-energy pace of the industry. After his 2010–2011 deployment to Afghanistan, he played a key role in opening and shaping the bar in the basement of the Historic Park Inn, refining his skills in classic cocktails and high-end hospitality. But this time, he had the opportunity to design a space that reflected his own vision—one that prioritized quality over shortcuts and experience over mass production.

In December 2021, Walsh’s Shebeen opened its doors in Mason City, introducing a true craft cocktail experience to the region. Inspired by traditional speakeasies and Irish shebeens, the bar was designed to be a welcoming, intimate space where every drink is made with precision and care. Unlike typical bars, Walsh’s Shebeen focuses on house-made syrups, fresh-squeezed juices, hand-cut ice, and carefully crafted bitters and liqueurs—ensuring that every cocktail is a work of art.

The name Walsh’s Shebeen is our family heritage and the historical Irish shebeens—hidden, unlicensed establishments known for their warmth, character, and commitment to good drink. Today, Walsh’s embodies that same spirit: a place where guests feel at home, conversations flow as smoothly as the whiskey, and attention to detail sets it apart.

Since opening, Walsh’s Shebeen has built a loyal following, attracting locals and travelers alike who appreciate the art of the cocktail. It has also become a cornerstone of the community, partnering with local businesses, hosting exclusive tastings, and supporting local initiatives.

More than just a bar, Walsh’s Shebeen is an experience—one built on history, hospitality, and the relentless pursuit of perfection in every glass.