Behind a traditional shop front, this former pub and undertakers in the heart of Callan town is now a thriving coffee shop/café and cultural hub run by sisters Eatoin and Aoife Holohan. With the original counter still in the old front bar, two small snug rooms to the rear and an eclectic mix of decor, both old and new, its old-world pub ambience feels almost like a film set.
But, atmospheric as it may be, it is very real and the owner, Eatoin Holohan, has collected most of the quirky prints, photos and ornaments on display herself. And everywhere there are posters proclaiming the details of upcoming events (art, music, dining evenings, local events) which gives a friendly local community feel to the place and creates a particularly comfortable ambience for single diners.
Sustainability is key at Fennelly's and superb in-house baking coupled with menus led by locally sourced foods have created a following for Fennelly's. Having trained as a chef and pastry chef in Melbourne, Aoife marries experience from her travels with local produce to create delicious dishes, including excellent vegetarian meals. Suppliers - including neighbouring business Keoghs bakery, Highbank Syrup, Kyle farm, Riverside farm, Butlers Family Farm and John Murphy's free range bacon - inform her menus, and all are highlighted on the menu and blackboard.
The day starts early with breakfast from 7.30am and treats include a hand-cut rasher from butcher John Murphy, served in a traditional blaa with a choice of homemade pickles. The daily special might be wilted spinach and fried cherry tomatoes on Granny’s brown bread.
Home baked cakes and scones are dis-played temptingly on the bar counter for in-between times and lunch brings the promise of speciality blaas with perhaps slow-cooked free-range pork confit with slaw and hot sauce or Larry’s meatloaf with a spicy sauce.
A daily stew, seasonal salads and a veggie special keep happy customers returning. Popular dessert treats include brownies, tarte au citron, a seasonal berry Bakewell and apple slice
Outside, the lovely courtyard with its planters and pots overflowing with flowers and herbs makes a delight-ful spot for al fresco summer eating, including the Chef evenings that are held from time to time.
Cosy, arty, quirky, quaint and welcoming, Fennelly's is run in a fun and caring fashion and, with something always going on - such as live music, art exhibitions, yoga and, most recently, the NeighbourFood market - it has become a hub for all people in Callan and afar. Deservedly much-loved by locals - and what a joy for visitors to happen on.
