Paul O’Donnell - Keeping Thomas Connolly's Pub traditional
“In terms of our offering and service, we’re always looking to improve and maintain the highest of standards. The nights of great music and sport will return in time. More than ever, people need these connections and experiences.”
When we ask Paul O’Donnell about the challenge he is facing regards re-opening Thomas Connolly’s Pub he says: “The pub has been trading since the 1780's - through the famine, two world wars and past pandemics. I'm confident we can get through this current crisis.”
Thomas Connolly is Sligo’s oldest traditional Irish pub and when Paul describes the unique features of his heritage pub, we can still feel how excited he must have been when he got the keys at the end of July 2015: “Thomas Connolly is a rare and wonderful premise from its Kilkenny flagstone floors up. Timber and glass partitions allow light to flood in while ensuring the spaces remain enclosed and private. The long bar counter rolls up past the snugs and the main bar area, curling towards a pot-bellied stove at the far end.”
Paul is well known and well respected in Sligo’s food and drinks scene. Growing up in a family running a Bed & Breakfast the hospitality business has been instilled in him from an early age. “I studied bar-tending in Galway RTC before returning home to Sligo to pursue my passion for the hospitality trade” he says. After a lease of Hargadons Pub on O’Connell Street (2005), Paul managed Furey’s from 2007. “It was previously operated by members of the traditional Irish supergroup ‘Dervish’, so there was a strong connection to music, with both local and international musicians.” he recalls. “I got to know a lot of great musicians over the years that I managed Furey's.” When he took over Thomas Connolly’s pub he quickly established a reputation as a live music venue.
Apart from offering an iconic pint of Guinness, Paul and his team have introduced many local and national Irish craft beers on draught. Asking him to join our team at Sligo Food Tours was a no-brainer. We love his professionalism and dedication to the trade, always helpful and always innovating and promoting local businesses. And he does it in a quiet way! There is a reason why locals and visitors love this venue: Great service in a unique environment!
At the end of our Sligo Food Tours our guests could choose beers from The Lough Gill brewery and also the White Hag brewery from Ballymote. “We’ve recently done a local collaboration to bring in our own Thomas Connolly IPA and Red Ale on draught”, Paul tells us. He is proud to offer over 100 variations of whiskey and also a Whiskey tasting tray and a Gin tasting experience with hand selected brands.
“For those with allergies, we stock a range of gluten free beers and a range of non-alcoholic options. We offer specialty coffees such an Irish, Baileys or Kahlua coffee and are also happy to grind you a fresh espresso or make you a cappuccino with our unique 1938 100% Arabica coffee blend.”
When pubs had to close during the pandemic Thomas Connolly’s and Flipside created a superb partnership!
So what are the plans? “As we open up again properly with smaller numbers and smaller groups we are somewhat fortunate that our heritage pub offers many partitioned areas and snugs to allow people keep their distance at any one time.” says Paul. “I think those that visit (both local and tourists) will still enjoy a great experience and take away many great memories from their visit.”
Paul says he is delighted to have partnered up with Flipside Sligo to offer a great new Bar bites menu. They are open from 5pm Wednesday to Sunday.
Asked about the future Paul is optimistic: “I’ve witnessed many great conversations had, stories shared and new friends made over the years in this business. The nights of great music and sport will return in time. More than ever, people need these connections and experiences.”
Here is Paul O’Donnell uncovered:
What is your favourite drink? You can't beat a good cold pint of Guinness and a whiskey chaser (one from the Lough Gill Distillery) or I could be persuaded to a fresh IPA from one of our local breweries (Lough Gill or The White Hag)
Finish the sentence, a publican is someone who must have a vision for their business, love of their area, the tastes and requirements of their clientele, someone who is 'a peoples person' and enjoys banter and never be afraid of hard work.
The country you travel to for food and drink ? I am a big fan of Italy, the people, the place, the food & culture and history. I think it has it all and I love getting to visit whenever I can.
Three things you always have in your fridge? Eggs, Milk and Cosgroves ham.
What is your most used gadget ? My phone, a lot of my advertising is done online via various social media accounts so I'm always updating and replying to query's on my business.
Do you read guide books about beer, spirits and wine? I always try to keep up with new trends within my industry from beer to spirits and wine mainly following trends through social media channels and forums.
Who is your inspiration? I am inspired by the people who are in the trade the longest, who have valuable knowledge of the trade from years of experience. The likes of Louis Fitzgerald and Charlie Chawke, two great business people within our hospitality industry.
What are you currently listening to? Seamie O'Dowd - live at the Hawkswell. Such a knowledgeable and gifted musician and it's great to see that it has passed to the next generation also with his two sons Rory & Stephen. A credit to his guidance.
Something people don't know about you ? I'm not sure if there's much that people don't know about me. Outside of my publican role I am a big fan of motor sport and classic cars.
What will be hot in 2020 ? I think a lot of people and businesses will like to see the back of 2020 and see what's hot in 2021!
Team Thomas Connolly from left: Peter Callan, Paul O’Donnell, Sean Dwyer, Ray Mc Morrow and Godfrey Hannon.