IllinoisFarmBureau

Ever eaten a horseshoe? It may sound crazy, but horseshoes grace the menus of restaurants all over Springfield. And arguably the tastiest one can be found at D’Arcy’s Pint on West Stanford Avenue.

We’re not talking about what goes on a horse’s hoof, of course. In Springfield, everybody knows a horseshoe is a mouthwatering dish that consists of thick Texas toast layered with meat or veggies, loaded with French fries, and smothered in cheese sauce.

“It’s an open-faced, knife and fork sandwich,” says Hallie Pierceall, co-owner of D’Arcy’s Pint. “Horseshoes originated in Springfield in 1928 at Leland Hotel, and restaurants throughout the city have been serving them ever since. We put our own spin on it, and we use our own homemade cheese sauce.”

Pierceall opened D’Arcy’s Pint in 1998 with business partner Glenn Merriman after taking a trip to Ireland. The restaurant radiates the warmth of an old Irish tavern.

“I loved the coziness of Irish pubs, and there weren’t a lot of authentic Irish pubs in Springfield,” Pierceall says. “We also wanted to offer a unique menu with things you can’t get just anywhere.”

While horseshoes are by far D’Arcy’s best-selling dish, other popular items on the menu include corned beef and cabbage served with parsley buttered Irish potatoes, shepherd’s pie, fish and chips, Reuben sandwiches, and breaded tenderloins.

“We’re a very casual, comfortable place, and we cater to all age groups, from college students and kids to older adults,” Pierceall says. “There’s so much variety on the menu that everyone can find something they like.”