There is no doubt a ton of money has been poured into making Paddy O'Splaine's look great: The space is enormous. A marble bar rolls off into the distance, and the tiffany style lampshades and woodwork are beautiful. One wishes for a bit more character, however. As beautiful as the bar is, would almost be more at home in Las Vegas than on the corner of a North Center side street.

The name is a combination of the names of the two couples who run the place, and pressing the staff for more information doesn't reveal much more than that. It isn't that they're unfriendly. On the contrary, the servers are attentive, if a bit overwhelmed, but as Paddy's is a bit new, that's only to be expected.

The menu eschews being primarily comprised of traditional Irish choices, though the standbys, such as fish and chips ($9) are represented. There are a good deal of Latino-influenced dishes as well as pastas and pizzas for $12. The burger is decent, though it may not change your life, but the fries that accompany it just might.

As Paddy's ramps up, it plans on hosting regular events such as karaoke night. There's already a party room, with a wide-screen TV equipped with a Wii as well as a pool table. Drink prices tend to run a little higher than average for the neighborhood. Surprisingly for an Irish pub, there are no higher-end whiskeys available.

With the addition of an outdoor patio, Paddy's looks to become even more of a neighborhood draw. Hopefully, as the staff gains more experience, and the menu and alcohol options are nailed down and perfected, Paddy's will become beautiful inside and out.

Centerstage Reviewer: Bill Burman