As the Irish say, Slainte.
Cochranites will soon be toasting each other in Killarney’s Cochrane, the Irish pub that is taking up residence at the Cochrane Golf Club.
Replacing AC’s Restaurant and Lounge, the offshoot of Airdrie’s Killarney’s Irish Pub promises patrons good food, good drinks and a friendly atmosphere, said owner Michael Pyne.
“It’s going to be warm and inviting — we really want to build a neighbourhood pub,” said Pyne, who lives in nearby Airdrie.
That isn’t to mean the club golfers will be left out, he added. With a background that mixes sports with the food and beverage industry, Pyne said he’s certain that golfers will feel comfortable with the clubhouse’s transition to a pub.
“We will be open year round, so we’re a separate entity from the golf course,” he added. “It is going to be a pub for the community, but the golfers are a part of that community.
“They can come in and grab a drink when they come off the course. We realize there are junior golfers too — they can come in and grab a pizza.”
Pyne took possession in early January and wasted no time getting to work. Renovations to the clubhouse have already begun: the interior of the building will be painted, the bar will be moved and extended down the right side of the space, and booths and privacy walls will be added.
Irish photographs and souvenirs will don the walls and are being shipped from the Emerald Isle, he added. With the dark wood and luxurious fabrics, Pyne said he hopes the location will have the same feel as the Airdrie location.
Killarney’s Cochrane will boast the same selection of food and drink as the Airdrie pub, with 16 beers on tap. The menu features traditional dishes like Irish stew and a selection of boxties (potato pancakes), along with gluten free options.
Pyne hopes to open the pub before St. Patrick’s Day.
