The owner of O’Loughlin’s Hotel and the nearby Blue Door venue on the main street in Portlaoise has issued a statement following the announcement last night that the Manhatten Mixer will no longer operate out of the Blue Door.
They are now moving to The Market House/Coppers in the Top Square in Portlaoise.
The Manhatten Mixer, operated by Kieran Lillis and Brian Dunne, has been based in the Blue Door for the past year or so having previously been in Grellan Delaney’s.
Business will continue as normal at the Blue Door with a late night venue under the brand The Midtown Bar. And Ivor O’Loughlin has confirmed also that all existing bookings remain unaffected.
“Following on from media coverage of recent developments and questions regarding changes to operations at the Blue Door/Mixer Venue, I would like to state the folllowing:
“After almost a year in business, in partnership with Brian and Kieran, and operating the Manhattan Mixer, the two lads have decided to move on. Together we have worked hard to build the brand and we wish them the very best of luck with their new venture in Coppers at Market Square.
“Our focus is to continue to provide the best quality experience for our customers and to continue to invest in our service and our people. The Midtown Bar will continue to operate as a premium late night venue with no cover charge in the centre of the town. There will be no change in the operating hours or the service we provide.
“As a family run business for over 20 years in the centre of Portlaoise it is our aim to continue to grow and provide much needed employment.
“We will continue to be instrumental in generating footfall to the centre of Portlaoise through constructive community events such as The Old Fort Quarter Festival.
“We have contributed more than €14,000 in the past year on local sponsorship and community development contributions and will remain active in supporting sporting, arts and cultural events.
“The Midtown Bar is a phenomenal venue and now includes the newly designed Midtown Lounge which is available for private functions, 21st Birthday parties etc.
“All existing bookings are unaffected by this recent developments and customer security and enjoyment will remain the number one priority in our offering.
“I look forward to the future as the premium late night venue in Laois and thank all our customers for your support over the past few years.”
