Post by kfrancis94 on Sept 9, 2012 13:28:47 GMT
www.kerryman.ie/news/matt-to-sign-off-after-35-years-at-the-taps-3219907.html
AFTER over 35 years at the helm of one of west Kerry's most recognisable pubs, Matt and Mary Moloney of Tomáisín's Bar and Restaurant in Stradbally are now winding down in preparation for their retirement in a few weeks' time.
The hosts are hoping to lease the landmark property on the Conor Pass after they retire at the end of October, and are looking forward to taking it easy and finally enjoying their weekends.
When the couple bought the premises in the mid 1970s it was trading purely as a pub, but in the mid 90s Matt and Mary branched into the restaurant side of the business, which is still operating today during the peak summer season.
Although the busy bar and restaurant holds tremendous memories for both Matt and Mary, there are some things the couple won't miss.
"I've been over 35 years here serving drink and 20 years serving food and there's no doubt about it but it's been a hard life. There's no half measures, you're either in or out. We decided this year that it's time to take it easy because were shoving on in years, and to be honest we won't miss having to work every Saturday and Sunday," Matt joked.
"We open every day during the summer and in the evenings for the winter so it's a full time job and it will be great to hand it over to someone else. I'm looking forward to getting my handicap down this summer, because I've only ever played golf in the winter," he added
Although Matt and Mary are not retiring until after the October bank holiday weekend, they are hoping to lease the property to some 'young blood' who will bring a new dimension to the renowned business.
AFTER over 35 years at the helm of one of west Kerry's most recognisable pubs, Matt and Mary Moloney of Tomáisín's Bar and Restaurant in Stradbally are now winding down in preparation for their retirement in a few weeks' time.
The hosts are hoping to lease the landmark property on the Conor Pass after they retire at the end of October, and are looking forward to taking it easy and finally enjoying their weekends.
When the couple bought the premises in the mid 1970s it was trading purely as a pub, but in the mid 90s Matt and Mary branched into the restaurant side of the business, which is still operating today during the peak summer season.
Although the busy bar and restaurant holds tremendous memories for both Matt and Mary, there are some things the couple won't miss.
"I've been over 35 years here serving drink and 20 years serving food and there's no doubt about it but it's been a hard life. There's no half measures, you're either in or out. We decided this year that it's time to take it easy because were shoving on in years, and to be honest we won't miss having to work every Saturday and Sunday," Matt joked.
"We open every day during the summer and in the evenings for the winter so it's a full time job and it will be great to hand it over to someone else. I'm looking forward to getting my handicap down this summer, because I've only ever played golf in the winter," he added
Although Matt and Mary are not retiring until after the October bank holiday weekend, they are hoping to lease the property to some 'young blood' who will bring a new dimension to the renowned business.