CAMDEN—The Midcoast's newest Irish pub has a special cocktail just in time for March 17. Co-owners Abby Kidder and Tom Ryan opened the pub in August 2025 and have created a signature Old Fashioned—The 8 Bells—which speaks to the heart of their pub.

The star of this cocktail is Ryan's favorite Irish whiskey, Powers.

"I've always loved a good Irish whiskey, something sweet, and Powers lends itself pretty well to an Old Fashioned," he said. "It's far superior to Jameson, I think, with the same price point."

"Abby and I have been talking about what we'd like to make for a signature cocktail and we wanted something to put on the menu that would be ours," he said. "It represents us in location, tradition, and personal preferences."

While Irish whiskeys are known for their bite, this cocktail provides a comforting overlay that smooths out the fire. Ryan uses a simple syrup of Guinness and maple syrup "as an ode to Maine" to accomplish this.

"This whiskey is well-rounded and triple-distilled, very drinkable," he said.

The other secret ingredient is a handmade sea salt saline.

"Being a mariner for the last 25 years, salt is always a good way to pull flavor out and accentuate the drink," he said.

A few dashes of orange bitters and orange zest released bright citrus oils into this cocktail. The result was warm and elegantly rounded with the maple and Guinness tempering the whiskey’s bite. Sitting on one of the sofas next to the stove in the pub with this drink in your hand feels unmistakably Irish. 

To make this cocktail yourself, get a rocks glass and set it aside. To a mixing glass, add:

• 2 oz Powers
• 3/4 oz Guinness simple syrup
• 2 drops orange bitters
• 3 drops Angostura bitters
• 1-2 drops saline

Add ice into the rocks glass, stir the mixing glass for 20 seconds, and pour into the rocks glass. Serve with a garnish of an orange tendril and a Maraschino cherry.

Or go to 8 Bells and have them make it for you!

8 Bells Pub is hosting a St. Patrick's Day bash on March 17 with an all-day music festival that kicks off at noon under a heated tent right next door. The headline band, Simple Things, is from Ireland, with three other incredible local bands, The Oystermen, Yesterday’s Men, and Jimmy Moreland & Friends. General Admission - $20 includes all-day access to the music tent plus Paddy’s Day swag, with Guinness and Harp on tap, Guinness 0.0, wine, soft drinks, and the Portable Pie food truck (with a special Irish menu) available for purchase on site. VIP tickets are sold out. Find out more about the event here.

To learn more visit: 8 Bells.

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com