O'Connors opens up 6th New York area location in New Milford
A first-time patron couldn't have said it better: "I saw the sign and thought, you can't go wrong with an Irish bar," said Mark Talmadge, enjoying Shepard's Pie and a draft with friend Rita Boylhart last week at the new O'Connors Public House. He wasn't let down either as they enjoyed sampling from each other's plate. They were surprised to hear there was another location in Brookfield, let alone four others in New York.
His remark rang true. It doesn't matter if it's blustery outside, as in week, or 90 degrees such as now. There's an immediate sense of comfort and camaraderie no matter what the weather at an O'Connors Public House. Furthermore, a Gaelic sign at the entrance reads "Céad míle fáilte," translating to "A hundred thousand welcomes," an Irish blessing.
Indeed the O'Connor family must be feeling blessed since opening their sixth Irish bar on U.S. soil. General Manager Mickey Conway, who is first cousin to Bobby and Glen O'Connor (both owners of other locations) recently came over from Blarney, County Cork, Ireland to run the New Milford location. Blarney is the home of the Blarney Castle, where tourists go to kiss the Blarney Stone, held upside-down from a balcony, no less. (I guess, if they don't fall that makes them lucky?)
The family successfully opened their first tavern in 1984, known as Muskerry Arms Guest House, Restaurant and Bar, a tourist destination in Southwestern Ireland. It features 25 modernized rooms in the historic c. 1700's building
The continued success of five other locations has to do with carefully training staff to do things a certain way, whether in the kitchen or the bar, according to Conway.
"We had our chefs working with the New Milford chefs to learn how we like things done and that seems to work," he said. Some of the staff were brought in from other O'Connors. It has become hugely popular for being open only four weeks.
"The crowds appear as early as 4:00 for food and refreshment. That lasts until six and then we get a whole other group of younger people coming in from 8:00 to 9:00.They're a fine group of kids and very respectful. They know we run a tight ship," referring to the rowdiness of other college-age hang-outs.
"Bobby has the eye," he points out. There are large, vintage mirrors everywhere, some only partially visible, which adds to the allure. Their trademark murals tell the story of the Irish immigration to America in black and white photos, blended across an entire wall. This particular one in New Milford, records JFK's 1963 visit to Ireland four months before he was killed.
"Last week we had an elderly couple who came in and left. They returned 20 minutes later. When I said, 'that didn't last long', they told me they liked the 'buzz' here."
When asked how he likes New Milford, "The whole business community has been wonderful. They have been supportive and welcomed us with open arms since day one. Even the other restaurants."
In keeping with traditional pub activity, there's a pool table, dart boards and a virtual golf tee. Music-wise, open mic on Wednesdays and live music Saturday nights have been so popular, it is standing room only. A local, young saxaphone player, Sam Hopkins, drew crowds over Memorial Day weekend. Patrick Barney performs popular Irish folk songs on Sundays 4:00 to 7:00 as well.
The menus are similar to the other O'Connors located in Mt. Kisco, White Plains, Brewster, Harrison and Brookfield. Menu names are sometimes altered to the locale such as The Big Mcquire, a burger named after Johnny McGuire, who was the contractor for the New Milford renovation. Traditonal Irish fare, along with many choices of sandwiches, chicken wings and nachos are above-average for tavern food.
O'Connors is known for its hearty, generous helpings, good cheer and fortune. Apparently the Blarney Stone has rubbed off its magic here, too.
Open 7 days a week. Hours are: Sun.-Thurs. 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. Fri. and Sat. 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m.
For further information call (860) 799-6677 or go to www.oconnorspublichouse.com
O'Connors Public House is located 46 Railroad St, New Milford
O'Connors Public House in Brookfield is located at 317 Federal Rd. (behind Wood Bin)
Photo #1 Mickey Conway, General Manager of O'Connors Public House in New Milford stands in front of the newly renovated building on Railroad Street
Photo #2 Bartenders Chris and Adrianni have both worked at other O'Connors
Photo #3 Couple enjoys lunch on their first visit to O'Connors
Photo #4 The Club Sandwich, one of many favorites from a large variety of sandwiches
Photo#5 The Hounds perform "free jazz" on a recent Saturday night