THIS YEAR MARKS a decade of The Red Hen’s doors being open to patrons. Described by its general manager Niamh Mulrooney as “one of those bars where you can feel comfortable going in alone or with friends, for a quiet drink or cocktails at any time in the evening.”
Mulrooney also notes that its spectacular interior design also sets the Red Hen apart from other evening spots in the city: “The décor is so interesting and different in comparison to other bars in Limerick City. There is such a vibrant mix of people which really reflects in the buzzing atmosphere of the bar.”
A vibrant and lively bar located in Limerick’s city centre, the establishment has been part of and watched on at the development of the incredible nightlife in Munster, as Mulrooney tells The Journal.
“Limerick has definitely grown as a city in the last ten years. The expansion of the University and other colleges means there’s a constantly growing population here. We’ve dealt with a lot of changes in the last ten years, primarily moving our focus from food to cocktails and adapting the bar throughout the pandemic.”
With business returning to its normal service since the pandemic, The Red Hen has been busy providing an excellent environment for afternoon catch-ups and memorable nights out. And, as their name would suggest, they have become a hotspot for hen parties, offering everything from prosecco packages and cocktail masterclasses. The variety of things taking place in the bar each night means that not only is it a great place to let your hair down, but it’s also been an exciting place to work as no day is the same, as Mulrooney explains.
“Working in the Red Hen has always been very enjoyable! We’re so lucky to have such kind, outgoing staff that obviously make work more enjoyable. There’s always something going on in the bar from DJ’s and live music on the weekends, cocktail classes, birthday parties and all kinds of different events throughout the week that means there’s never a dull day.”
Outside of the bar and restaurant, the energy of Limerick city is just as lively as Niamh fondly notes of her neighbourhood. “Limerick is a really lovely city to live in. There are so many nice places to go out to eat and drink. The milk market on a Saturday morning is always enjoyable. There is always something to do and I think music and live entertainment are a big thing here.”
We asked Niamh Mulrooney where she likes to go in Limerick, and beyond, during her time away from the Red Hen for her perfect Night Out, Night Off.
Down the Local: “The nicest pub for a quiet pint but also for meeting friends would have to be our sister bar, The White House. One of the nicest pints of Guinness in town, if I do say so.”
Dream Night Out: “One of my favourite types of night out is the ones you aren’t planning; out for day drinks in the sunshine somewhere like The Locke Bar and ending up out for the night! For a planned night out I love going somewhere like The Copper Room with the girls or Cornstore is also beautiful for dinner.”
Morning off Ritual: “Duo is without a doubt my favourite place for a coffee in town. Café Rosé or The Buttery would be two of my top places for some brunch or lunch. If you venture out of town, a walk around the University of Limerick or out to Birdhill and go to the Old Barracks would be my recommendation.”
Hidden Gem: “As mentioned, I think Duo makes one of the nicest coffees in the city. They used to be our neighbours but moved to Sarsfield Street sometime last year I think. Their focus is on all things sustainable, the shop just has such a lovely vibe. I definitely think the Copper Rooms is such a beautiful and different spot in Limerick City if you’re looking for something to do in a group or with your partner or for a night with the girls.”
Weekend Getaway: “For a weekend getaway, you can’t go wrong in Galway. There is always so much to do whether it’s a walk in Salthill or shopping in the city or visiting all the bars and restaurants. You can also head out further west if you want a more relaxed or off-the-grid weekend away so I think it has something for everyone.”
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