A new business has opened at a prescient time in Market Square in Mitchelstown, welcoming customers indoors just as the government announced a significant easing of restrictions.
As Micheál Martin made his announcement on Tuesday, 31st August, Drapers Tavern were preparing to open, which they did on that following Friday night.
Manager Nicky Lawton, who hails from Ballygiblin, spoke to The Avondhu about what big plans are in store for Mitchelstown’s newest venture.
“The announcement is fantastic news for us – we can have a grand opening! Once the kitchen is finished, we’ll be ready to rock. We’ve six local people working with us, and we’re very happy to be opening just as society is opening up again.”
FOOR & ENTERTAINMENT
Right now, Drapers Tavern is serving drinks only, but in the not too distant future punters can look forward to a full bar menu, serving “really, really good pub grub.”
“We’ll have burgers, steaks, roasts – good, honest pub food. We’ll have desserts too, and a good kids men. The whole family is welcome, and of course we’ll have vegan and vegetarian options too.”
Chef Hugo is a Portugese national, who has moved to Drapers Tavern from a restaurant in Kinsale, so Nicky assures us that he really knows his stuff. Food will be available from 12 noon daily, and the pub are awaiting delivery of a barista coffee machine, so teas and coffees will be readily available.
As well as food, the pub will feature live music three nights a week. What’s more, Nicky welcomes any new and emerging artists to come to the bar and play.
“We’ll have a raised area for bands and music three nights a week – and soon we hope to be dancing to it too! Musicians are more than welcome to come in and have a session if they like, so I’m telling any new musicians who want to get a bit of practice, to give me a call.”
The pub is open to private parties too, when public health guidelines allow it to do so. There is an outside area that faces the street, with benches and umbrellas.
However, is a bar even a bar these days without an Aperol Spritz? Drapers Tavern will feature an extensive cocktail menu including the Insta-worthy drink, as well as favourites like Tequila Sunrise, Cosmopolitan, Cuba Libre, and an Old-Fashioned for the Don Drapers of the town. Craft beers include local brewers’ 8 Degrees and Stonewell Craft Cider.
Nicky is looking forward to 22nd October when, if all goes to plan, bar service will be back to normal, and other restrictions eased. Drapers Tavern will be holding a grand opening at a later date, so watch this space for the big announcement!
