The Story So Far...

Back in 2006, a father and son team had a dream. The son’s was to own his own restaurant, the father’s was to be there as his son realised his dream. Together they bought a lovely quaint bar – The Clubhouse – on the edge of their home town, in the very beautiful and picturesque Dromahair in north Leitrim.  The gents got down to business and The Clubhouse took on a new life.

The son was John Kelly. His early entry into the culinary world began at the tender age of 16 with a 4 year stint in MacNean House. Here he studied his craft under the guidance of one of Ireland’s most renowned chefs – Nevin Maguire. From there it was another 4 years stint in Sligo’s French restaurant ‘Montmartre’. From there, John was ready. He became Head Chef at The Clubhouse Bar which over the years has grown into The Clubhouse Gastro Bar with a far-reaching reputation for consistently excellent food made from fresh local produce and a warm welcome for all.

The team of 2 has changed over the years. Chef John is now joined by his wife Ruth and together they have taken The Clubhouse Gastro Bar to award winning standards. And then in 2009, when the country was in the throves of a crippling recession, they took a leap of faith. 2009 saw the opening of the 100 seater Riverbank Restaurant. A Restaurant that has carved out a reputation for its fresh local produce and focus on mouth-watering flavour that delights the most discerning of palettes.

The journey is far from over for John & Ruth Kelly and their young family. Sheer hard work, and a genuine love of food and hospitality drive them on. This young couple have plans… The Mill Master’s House. Over the next few months, we will watch as this historic building is brought back to life to welcome guests for the best of Irish hospitality in beautiful Dromahair, Co. Leitrim.