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But Clyne says it was two things that pushed the vision into reality.
“A couple of Coors Lights one night in Black Rock,” he joked. “We had them and that was it.”
Not that these two Fairfield residents are strangers to the restaurant business. Clyne was one of the original partners in the popular Black Rock Castle just over the Bridgeport line. He has spent the last several years as the bar manager at Gates Restaurant and Bar in New Canaan.
And O’Halloran was at Black Rock’s The Field for eight years before taking a bartender’s gig at The Little Pub of Greenwich’s Cos Cob.
Their new venue, which had a soft launch in September, features some of the traditional Irish fare that was so popular at Black Rock Castle. Diners will find shepherd’s pie, beef stew and bangers and mash, as well as a full line of salads and burgers, wings, quesadilla and chicken marsala.
“It’s got a European flair,” said Clyne’s wife, Paula, of the varied menu.
The reason for that is no secret, either: Clyne hails from County Leitrim, Ireland, and O’Halloran grew up in Dublin.
Chef Dave Heart is in change of the kitchen. He also worked at Gates, which has since closed.
“He’s very good,” O’Halloran said. “He set up the whole menu.”
While Castle on Post has a popular bar, the restaurant closes a bit earlier than the old Black Rock Castle, which often featured music and dancing for night owls.
“We’re 25 years older now,” Clyne said, laughing.
The business partners hope to have music on some weekends and plan to offer catering and private parties.
Clyne said business has been brisk in the restaurant’s early months, due in large part from a loyal fan base from Black Rock Castle and The Field.
State Rep. Brenda Kupchick, who cut the ribbon at Tuesday’s grand opening, remembers the Castle fondly.
“Welcome back to the Black Rock Castle!” she told the crowd.
The Castle on Post, 222 Post Road, is open Mondays through Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for lunch and 5 to 9:30 p.m. for dinner. Sunday brunch runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
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