The Poacher’s Pocket Renovation Serves up a New Experience
£200,000 investment by Balloo Inns transforms award-winning gastro-pub
4th June 2018: Award-winning County Down gastro-pub favourite, The Poacher’s Pocket, has undergone a £200,000 renovation. The cosy new front bar extension in Lisbane near Comber will offer regular patrons and culture enthusiasts a traditional country-chic pub experience.
Opening up new offerings for Poacher’s Pocket visitors, the six-figure investment provides an extended space for the traditional front pub, seamlessly flowing from the dining restaurant.
The newly extended Poacher’s Pocket is at the heart of the community, welcoming locals and visitors alike for an authentic pub experience. Already well known for a firm focus on local products, the bar offers hand-picked homegrown ales, artisan gins and a range of specialised whiskeys.
Live music will be a strong feature with mid-week open traditional sessions and regular weekend appearances from well-known singer songwriters, Ken Haddock and Matt McGinn. The snug booths, a traditional dark wood bar, antique brass furnishings and an inset wood burning stove also makes the relaxed setting ideal for private events.
The Poacher’s Pocket opened in 2013 and since then has won an array of accolades, including recently being crowned the Best Gastro-Pub in County Down at the Irish Restaurant Awards for the fourth consecutive year. The venue was also awarded the 2018 title of Best Wine Experience, to add to its ever-growing list.
In keeping with the stand-out style of the Balloo Inns Group which includes Balloo House in Killinchy and The Parsons Nose in Hillsborough, the latest investment showcases the group’s continued commitment to honing its craft and renowned hospitality offering.
Ronan Sweeney, Balloo Inns Managing Director and owner of The Poacher’s Pocket, said: “We are really proud of the latest works at Poacher’s Pocket. The redevelopment enables more customers to enjoy a good night out, with space to continue their evening and to socialise. The combination of great food with entertainment such as live music sessions or the popular pub quiz, means we can create truly memorable experiences. Our happy customers are our main benchmark, but the national award success is also appreciated and is down to the dedication of our 120-strong team in the Balloo Inns Group.”
The redevelopment builds on The Poacher’s Pocket distinctive character, with York stone floor and dark wood paneling. It includes artwork from esteemed local artist Kathryn Callaghan, with the renovation design led by local commercial interior architect, Paul Haffey, providing acclaimed design solutions in the hospitality industry.
The Poacher’s Pocket continues to work particularly closely with talented Northern Ireland suppliers, with local flavours incorporated into its award-winning menu. It also stocks local produce on the shelves of the adjoining artisan food and wine shop, The Poacher’s Pantry. The gourmet shop offers Poacher’s own soups, sauces and baked goods from the kitchen as well as products from award-winning Hannan Meats, JN Wines and local brewers and distillers.
Food is served daily at The Poacher’s Pocket from noon to 9.00pm (9.30pm at weekends), with The Pantry open from 9am. For more information and to make a booking, call 028 9754 1589.
