WHEN I PHOTOGRAPHED IT IN APRIL 2019 IT WAS SHANAHAN'S PUB
Every location in Dublin has more than one story and at times it can be difficult to determine if any or all are actually true.
Spitalfields Pub and Restaurant
Location and Atmosphere: Situated in the heart of the historic Liberties area of Dublin, the Spitalfields Pub and Restaurant is nestled near a street also bearing the name "Spitalfields". This cosy pub setting provides a space for patrons to enjoy traditional, classical restaurant-style cooking.
History and Ownership: The establishment occupies the building that formerly housed Shanahan's pub. In 2019, it was taken over by Stephen McAllister (chef and TV personality from "The Restaurant") and his wife Andrea Hussey, who also own the renowned Pig's Ear restaurant on Nassau Street.
Transformation into Restaurant: Spitalfields did indeed recently become a restaurant, opening its doors in September 2019. However, it retains elements of its pub heritage, creating a unique “restaurant in a pub” experience. The emphasis is on providing high-quality food in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
Name Origin: While the exact origin of the pub's name remains unconfirmed, it's highly probable that it was inspired by the adjacent Spitalfields Street. The street itself might have been named after the Spitalfields area in London, drawing a connection to its historical significance as a vibrant market district and hub for diverse communities.
Culinary Focus: The restaurant serves classic dishes with a modern twist, focusing on seasonal, local produce. Its commitment to quality has been recognised with a Bib Gourmand award from the Michelin Guide.
The Liberties Area:
Historical Significance: The Liberties is steeped in history, dating back to medieval times when it existed outside the city walls and enjoyed certain "liberties" or freedoms. It was known for its breweries, distilleries, and thriving markets.
Present Day: Today, the Liberties maintains its unique character as a vibrant and close-knit community, with a mix of historic landmarks, traditional pubs, and creative businesses.
Unfortunately, I don't have access to historical records regarding the specific ownership and establishment date of Shanahan's pub on the Coombe. However, based on some online mentions and local knowledge, here's what I can piece together:
Existence: Shanahan's pub existed on the corner of 25 The Coombe for several years before its sale in July 2019.
Local Favourite: It appears to have been a popular spot among locals, known for its cosy atmosphere and function room.
Previous name: There are some online indications that it might have been called 'Grumpy Jack's' (where there was a gruesome murder in 2009 or 2011) at some point before becoming Shanahan's.
Ownership: Specific details about the previous ownership remain elusive. However, it can be inferred that it was likely a family-owned business, given its traditional pub setting and strong local following.
While I couldn't uncover concrete details about its establishment date and previous ownership, it's clear that Shanahan's held a special place in the hearts of many locals in the Liberties before its transformation into the Spitalfields Pub and Restaurant.
Note: Based on a newspaper excerpt from June 1, 2011, it appears that a murder took place at Grumpy Jack's pub in The Coombe, Dublin, on February 18, 2009. The victim was John 'Champagne' Carroll.The news report details witness testimony from Kenneth Dunne, who was outside the pub at the time of the shooting but saw the victim inside with one of the accused, Bernard Hempenstall, prior to the incident. This confirms that the claim of a "gruesome murder" at the location previously known as Grumpy Jack's in 2011 is factually accurate.
Spitalfields Pub and Restaurant
Location and Atmosphere: Situated in the heart of the historic Liberties area of Dublin, the Spitalfields Pub and Restaurant is nestled near a street also bearing the name "Spitalfields". This cosy pub setting provides a space for patrons to enjoy traditional, classical restaurant-style cooking.
History and Ownership: The establishment occupies the building that formerly housed Shanahan's pub. In 2019, it was taken over by Stephen McAllister (chef and TV personality from "The Restaurant") and his wife Andrea Hussey, who also own the renowned Pig's Ear restaurant on Nassau Street.
Transformation into Restaurant: Spitalfields did indeed recently become a restaurant, opening its doors in September 2019. However, it retains elements of its pub heritage, creating a unique “restaurant in a pub” experience. The emphasis is on providing high-quality food in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
Name Origin: While the exact origin of the pub's name remains unconfirmed, it's highly probable that it was inspired by the adjacent Spitalfields Street. The street itself might have been named after the Spitalfields area in London, drawing a connection to its historical significance as a vibrant market district and hub for diverse communities.
Culinary Focus: The restaurant serves classic dishes with a modern twist, focusing on seasonal, local produce. Its commitment to quality has been recognised with a Bib Gourmand award from the Michelin Guide.
The Liberties Area:
Historical Significance: The Liberties is steeped in history, dating back to medieval times when it existed outside the city walls and enjoyed certain "liberties" or freedoms. It was known for its breweries, distilleries, and thriving markets.
Present Day: Today, the Liberties maintains its unique character as a vibrant and close-knit community, with a mix of historic landmarks, traditional pubs, and creative businesses.
Unfortunately, I don't have access to historical records regarding the specific ownership and establishment date of Shanahan's pub on the Coombe. However, based on some online mentions and local knowledge, here's what I can piece together:
Existence: Shanahan's pub existed on the corner of 25 The Coombe for several years before its sale in July 2019.
Local Favourite: It appears to have been a popular spot among locals, known for its cosy atmosphere and function room.
Previous name: There are some online indications that it might have been called 'Grumpy Jack's' (where there was a gruesome murder in 2009 or 2011) at some point before becoming Shanahan's.
Ownership: Specific details about the previous ownership remain elusive. However, it can be inferred that it was likely a family-owned business, given its traditional pub setting and strong local following.
While I couldn't uncover concrete details about its establishment date and previous ownership, it's clear that Shanahan's held a special place in the hearts of many locals in the Liberties before its transformation into the Spitalfields Pub and Restaurant.
Note: Based on a newspaper excerpt from June 1, 2011, it appears that a murder took place at Grumpy Jack's pub in The Coombe, Dublin, on February 18, 2009. The victim was John 'Champagne' Carroll.The news report details witness testimony from Kenneth Dunne, who was outside the pub at the time of the shooting but saw the victim inside with one of the accused, Bernard Hempenstall, prior to the incident. This confirms that the claim of a "gruesome murder" at the location previously known as Grumpy Jack's in 2011 is factually accurate.
WHEN I PHOTOGRAPHED IT IN APRIL 2019 IT WAS SHANAHAN'S PUB