The Fatted Calf thanks locals as business opens in Glasson

Friday, August 21, marked a new departure for The Fatted Calf as owners, Fiona and Feargal O'Donnell, returned to business life in Glasson.

The Glasson residents received the keys to the former Grogan's bar and restaurant in mid-July, after their purchase of the premises concluded. Following renovations, it opened for bar trade just over two weeks ago.

The premises is now known as The Fatted Calf @ Grogan's, and Fiona is looking forward to what lies ahead for the business following the opening last month.

Fiona said the support received from the local community affirmed her decision, and that of Feargal, to return to Glasson, where the couple previously owned The Village restaurant.

"The support we have received since opening in August has been simply amazing.

“It is great to work in the community in which we live and Feargal and I will be forever grateful to our local community for the reception we received when we first opened the doors," Fiona said.

Fiona said there has been a "good vibe" since the business opened with former owner Miriam Grogan calling in to wish the O'Donnells well on the opening night.

Now adorning the green and gold colours of Tubberclair GAA, "bringing more colour" to the premises, Fiona said it feels "good to be back" in the village.

"The sense of community in Glasson and Tubberclair is on another level and we have sensed that since opening for business," Fiona stated.

A "soft opening" will mark the start of dinner service in The Fatted Calf restaurant on Friday evening, as the business adds to its bar offering. The Fatted Calf restaurant operated from a location in Athlone Towncentre for eleven years.

The restaurant will open on five days per week, from Thursday to Monday, with a "dish for everyone" on the menu.

Fiona and Feargal's two children, Molly and Jack will work in The Fatted Calf on a full and part-time basis respectively. The business has also hired staff living within the local community.

"I feel that it is important to invest in the community and offer employment in the hospitality industry to our local students," Fiona added.

With dinner now on the menu, lunch will be added a later date, and Fiona was quick to thank all the local tradespersons who enabled the business to open so swiftly before the end of the summer season.