In Clonakilty, a well-known bar reopens in March with a new dinner and cocktails vibe
Book the babysitter.
In Clonakilty, a new chapter for date night is about to begin. The Mountain House opens in Ardfield this March, promising candlelit dinners, crafted cocktails, and a warm West Cork welcome.
Behind the venture are husband-and-wife duo Niamh O’Sullivan and John Culloty, parents to two young children, who have spent the past months lovingly transforming the much-loved pub ahead of its next debut.
After moving to Clonakilty in 2022, the pair quickly fell for the town’s strong sense of community and knew it was where they wanted to build both a family life and a business together.
Now, that long-held dream is becoming reality. The Mountain House will serve a thoughtful, flavour-led menu featuring dishes like homemade pasta and smoked lamb — comforting, elegant plates designed for lingering evenings and special occasions.
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“Our head chef is Joseph Quane, he was in the final of the Euro-Toques Young Chef of the Year in 2025.” Niamh told Yay Cork.
“In the bar we will have wine on tap and bar snacks like cheese boards, charcuterie boards and bread and tapenade and olives. We plan to open the bar in early March and the restaurant late March, all going well. Initially we will open Thursday to Sunday with plans to extend for the summer.”
As parents, Niamh and John are keen to highlight that The Mountain House will be kid-friendly too, with a special menu for little guests.
Whether you’re popping down for a Clon staycation or passing through en route further west, this is one to add to the list for spring and summer.
