Sharon Mc Grath and Ray Kenny bought Pat Cohan’s Bar in Cong, Co. Mayo (of The Quiet Man fame) in 2013 and proceeded to renovate it to its current status as probably the smartest bar in the area. Sharon worked in banking for many years before returning to her home in Co. Mayo to begin a new life and a new business. Sharon attended ‘The Business of Opening a Café’ in Abbeyleix in early 2014 and while attending the course, was getting the business ready to open. Sharon was able to plan her strategy during the course and take back each day’s learning to put into practice. We got regular updates on progress and helped Sharon plan her kitchen, her systems and menus. Sharon and Ray opened the pub to the public in July of 2014 and hit the ground running. It has been a steep learning curve but Sharon says that she could not have done it without attending the course where she gained knowledge, support and skills.
“Excellent. It has given me the confidence to take on tasks which I wouldn’t have thought possible without expert help and benefited my budget in the process. It brings it all together in a clear and concise manner. Excellent course in every way, would strongly recommend to anyone opening a Food Service Business”
One year later and Pat Cohan’s have just won Best Newcomer in Munster award from the Restaurants Association of Ireland. We are so thrilled and proud and wish Ray and Sharon continued success. And, yes, Cong really is like a story book village – put it on the bucket list!