Community Cornerstone is brought to you by Square. 

We all have a grá for our local haunts.

All over Cork, nestled amidst the bustling streets and historic landmarks, lies a vibrant tapestry of local spots that are the cornerstones of our communities.

We’re delving into the personal stories of the passionate individuals behind those busy counters, all powered by Square’s all-in-one solution for food and beverage businesses.

Stephen O’Sullivan, The Liberty, South Main Street, Cork City

“I always had an interest in the hospitality sector from my time working in the Cork Opera House. When the opportunity to take over such a space as The Liberty arose, I couldn’t pass up the chance.

“The Liberty has always been part of the fabric of Cork City, since its opening over 100 years ago. It was a huge part of the music scene in Cork and a regular hangout of many of the bands in the 90’s like Sultans of Ping, Frank & Walters and other bands in the city at the time, with Cillian Murphy speaking of his times going to The Liberty as well.

“They all drank in the Liberty. You could buy two litres of cider over the counter and if you didn’t finish it, you could write your name on it and go back for it the next day.”

“The main challenge was starting from scratch and learning a whole new business. I had to get to grips with suppliers and orders but there was a lot of great people on hand who offered some great advice along the way. The biggest risk for me was time and balancing that with other responsibilities.

“Square is such an integral part of the business. It covers everything from stock to pricing and financial reports. It allows us to evaluate which products sell best and tailor our offerings to suit. It also allows staff to clock in and clock in and clock out. We use Square to set up our work schedules and they are introducing HR modules, which will be of great benefit to the business.

Photos: Louis Tang

“We have tried to create a space where new performers are made to feel welcome. Everyone is given a chance to make their mark. Whether it be new DJs, musicians, poets or artists, we have, hopefully, made The Liberty a welcoming, friendly and safe place for them to come and perform.

“There’s no real typical day to speak of. It really depends on whatever needs to be done, which varies greatly day to day.

“We have a very extensive cocktail menu. We serve our full list both downstairs and upstairs in our cocktail bar, Resistance, which our customers really love.

“This entrepreneurial journey has taught me I’m a glutton for punishment! In reality though, I’d advise anyone starting out to be prepared for anything, and to take the rough with the smooth.

“There are a lot more people out there with way more experience and knowledge about this industry than me. I would say, don’t be scared to go and ask for advice. Everyone I approached was so helpful and supportive, I can’t thank them enough.

“Long term at The Liberty, we plan to continue our incremental growth. The goal is to establish The Liberty as great local to come enjoy a few pints, savour some excellent cocktails and see some really interesting events. We have no plans to expand but that is not to say if the right opportunity presented itself, I wouldn’t be interested.

“We are always looking for new things to do in the bar, but for the moment we are concentrating on the (hopefully) busy Christmas. Then in the New Year we have some very exciting things lined up.”

Community Cornerstone is brought to you by Square, the flexible restaurant POS solution your staff can learn in minutes. Square takes payments quickly and keeps the queue moving, with a host of extra bonuses to track sales and manage inventory. Find the best solutions for your business needs at square.com. Square is Big in Cafes, and The Liberty is Big in Cork.

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Photos: Louis Tang