A WAVE of excitement flowed through the streets of Tralee after the announcement two months ago that Kirby’s Brogue Inn, “a landmark at the bottom of the Rock”, would reopen in Tralee, Co Kerry in July and now that moment has finally arrived.
Under new ownership, but continuing to have strong links with the Kirby Family, 35 people will be employed at the Brogue Inn which has undergone a major renovation both inside and outside.
Fiona Kirby and her husband Kevin Cotter have invested heavily in buying and redesigning the Brogue and they will place a major emphasis on serving quality food, offering value for money and hosting the best entertainment.
Fiona, a daughter of the late Bill Kirby who had built a strong reputation for the Brogue as being one of the most popular eating and drinking establishments in the country, said: “This has been a massive undertaking and while there were many obstacles along the way, we are proud to be in a position to open the doors of the Brogue to the public once again. The past 14 months have been very difficult for me and my family, but today is a milestone for everyone. From today we must look forward positively and develop a product and service that will be second to none in the hospitality sector in Munster.”
The famous old character of the Brogue has been maintained and with Kevin’s background in food, the new look Brogue Inn will focus on offering quality food all day everyday – serving breakfast, confectionery, carvery lunch and dinner in the bar, food court and restaurant.
The bar itself will hold regular music sessions midweek and at weekends – kicking off this Friday night with Midnite Café – while upstairs the couple have redeveloped the new Cobblers’ Restaurant, compete with lounge and rooftop smoking area.
Well known traditional Irish music group, Oileán, are also looking forward to belting out the tunes on Wednesday and Sunday nights in the bar.
Kirby’s Brogue Inn has already secured a number of large bookings for various corporate and family events and they look forward to being the venue of choice for Christenings, anniversaries and birthdays as well as corporate functions.
Co-owner of Kirby’s Brogue Inn, Kevin Cotter from Knockbrack, Knocknagoshel, said: “We have been overwhelmed by the goodwill of the general public who have been most supportive since April 2013. The fears that are associated with making such a big investment have been eased by the words of encouragement from our family, friends and the people of Tralee and surrounding areas. We have only one chance at this but if the food it right and the service is right, then we will succeed.”
Kirby’s Brogue Inn will open daily from 9am until 11.30pm with late opening at weekends.
Full details of the A la Carte, Bar, Children’s, Party, Coffee and Wine Menus are available on the new website – www.thebrogue.ie while bookings may also be made online and by calling 066 7181998 or 066 7185595.
