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KAISERSLAUTERN, Germany — You’re probably wondering why we’re profiling yet another Irish pub in this column.

But the Irish House on the outskirts of Kaiserslautern is more than just another Irish watering hole.

Yes, it has Guinness on tap and all the whiskeys that are standard at any Irish pub, but this K-town bar is best known for its live-music offerings on the weekends.

The massive facility with three bars on two floors hosts live-music acts every Friday and Saturday evening. The acts range from soul, funk and hip-hop to rock and pop.

“Our thing is live music, and we concentrate very strongly on American bands,” said Mark Dutton, owner and manager of the Irish House.

It’s a formula that’s worked for nearly 17 years at the location, just north of Autobahn 6 in Kaiserslautern.

And to celebrate its 17th year in business, the Irish House is offering everything half-price on July 12 for Americans. Before you grab your calendar, July 12 falls on a Wednesday.

Even if you don’t take advantage of the special deal, Dutton claims his bar is the cheapest pub in town. A Guinness will cost you 3.80 euros and whiskey runs around 3 euros. The bar’s crowd is about half German and half American, Dutton said.

On average, cover charge on live-music nights is about 6 euros. If you show up before 8 p.m., you get in for free.

Dutton is always looking for bands to play at his bar. He asks and encourages any bands to see him in person at the bar about the possibility of playing at the Irish House.

“We’re an outlet for American bands to play on the economy,” Dutton said. “If you think you’re good enough to play, we’ll give you a go. Please don’t suck.”

On Friday night, rockers “Sofa King” play there.

The bar is just on the outskirts of Kaiserslautern so consult the bar’s Web site for specific driving instructions. It’s across the street from Hotel Barbarossahof, if you know where that is situated.

Plenty of parking is available, but obviously don’t risk a DUI. Be sure to bring a designated driver or take a cab.

And if you get a late-night hunger, the Irish House serves pizza, hot dogs and the sort.

As always, if you drink, do so responsibly. Don’t drink and drive.

Irish House

Kaiserslautern, Germany

Drinks: Nine beers on tap, 20 more in the refrigerator and 30 different kinds of whiskey. Beers go from 2.40 euros to 3.80 euros. Whiskey runs about 3 euros a shot.

Food: Typical bar fare: pizza, hot dogs, etc.

Clientele: Half American, half German.

Location: Eselsfürth 11, Kaiserslautern, Germany.

Web site:www.irishhouse.de.

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