Downingtown is looking a little greener these days, thanks to the recent arrival of a hand-crafted bar and shop front from Waterford County, Ireland. The arrival of the container was cause for celebration for Conor Cummins and Declan Mannion, the two “publicans” who own and operate the Molly Maguire’s Irish Restaurants and Pubs.
The third location of the popular Irish pub is scheduled to open in the first week of August 2013, in the historic Minquas Firehouse in the center of the borough. Extensive renovations are underway, and Conor gave me the grand tour as construction workers moved full steam ahead. At 17,000 square feet, the Downingtown restaurant will be almost twice as large as their Phoenixville location.
Conor and Declan were thrilled with the arrival of the bar and shop front, as it marked another milestone in their efforts to, as Conor said with a grin, “bring 365 days of Ireland to Downingtown.” They’ve been working with Minquas Fire Company, the borough, and others since 2008. Conor noted that Minquas Fire Chief Jim Miller has been particularly helpful during the five year transition. Minquas Fire Company recently moved to new facilities a few blocks away.
The new Molly Maguire’s in Downingtown will be modeled after a high-end Victorian bar. Inside the front door will be a vestibule leading to the first floor bar and restaurant, which is an expansive space. “Since it’s a historic district, we wanted to retain the feel,” Conor explained. The restaurant will also pay tribute to the fire company which once resided there, with firefighting memorabilia on several of the walls. A stage for live music will also feature a traditional fireman’s pole. Bands are expected to play on Friday and Saturday nights.
Molly Maguire’s received over 800 applications for positions and will be employing approximately 60 people when the restaurant opens. The management staff has been hired already. Phase two of the project, which is expected to be finished in the fall of 2014, includes a massive banquet hall that can seat up to 200 people.
If you want to try some real Irish food, but can’t wait for Downingtown’s August opening, Molly Maguire’s Executive Chef Jerry Eichner has been busy developing a new menu for the Phoenixville and Lansdale locations. The new menu will launch sometime in mid-July.
Stay tuned for more updates on DowningtownDish.com as a touch of Ireland comes to Downingtown.
Photographs credited to Jim Breslin.
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