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26 Mar 2026

LATEST: Exciting reopening plans announced for pub in Kilkenny

Major annoucement about much-loved rural Kilkenny venue

LATEST: Exciting reopening plans announced for pub in Kilkenny

Plans have been announced for the official reopening of Mc Carthy's Bar in Johnstown in North Kilkenny.

The update has been shared by Jimmy Kenny, who is putting all the pieces together ahead of the big day after recently taking over the lease for the venue.

"Firstly I'd like to thank Ray, Lorraine and family for giving us the opportunity to take on this new venture," he said.

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"They have built a thriving business up there and created a pub which is welcoming with a lovely atmosphere. We certainly have big shoes to fill and will do our utmost to carry on where they left off.
"We hope to be open on Thursday, January 23 and we have a lot of hard work and organising to do between now and then.
The question on everyone's lips over the last few months has been - will you be doing food?
"The answer to this is yes! A major reason for why I decided to take on this venture is that my own mother, Kathleen, worked in "Barrys" back in the day and her reputation for turning out quality meals up there for years and therefore I saw it as a twist of fate when Ray asked me if I'd be interested in leasing the property from him.
"We will start off by offering food service on weekends only. Keep an eye on Mc Carthys Bar social media pages over the next few days to see what we have to offer.
"We will continue with live music of course and our official opening night is Frida, January 31 where we have a cracking band lined up to play.
"As most of ye know, we are sports mad and with four big screens in the pub you'll never miss out on any of the big sporting occasions.
"I also can't wait to add on an outdoor music stage and BBQ in the spacious outdoor area where we can enjoy some good times in the summer months.
"So keep an eye on the socials for loads more updates and we hope to see ye in the near future."

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