Expat pub chain offers more than just a ‘look’ of the Irish
TIME was all Irish themed pubs from Dublin to Delhi all looked the same. Faux-rustic designs with green walls and Guinness posters, rusty antiques, and maybe even the odd bit of taxidermy. But not Flann O’Brien’s. Taking its cue from Ireland’s contemporary bar-scene, Bangkok-based Flann O’Brien’s steers clear of clutter to offer a fresh and modern take on the tried-and-tested international Irish pub template. And it’s proving popular, too. |
Since opening its first branch at Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani, in February 2009, the brand has gone on to open three more branches in the capital – including a large, high-ceilinged venue at Asiatique The Riverfront; a hip hangout frequented by celebs and VIPs at Eight Thonglor; and, after taking over what was formerly O’Reilly’s, a prime spot on Silom Road next to the BTS station. The latter of these is about to be given a makeover to bring it in line with Flann O’Brien’s look and philosophy.
“Some people have joked we want to be the McDonald’s of Irish pubs,” says the pub’s Group Director, Liam Herrity, a quick-witted Irish fellow who delivers one-liners with the ease of a seasoned comedian. “But while we’re certainly a fast growing brand, one which we’re looking to franchise in the region, we have a real focus on personalized service and high quality food. And our customers are loving it…Wait a minute. Isn't that somebody else’s slogan?”
The pub’s own slogan is actually ‘No Stranger at Flann O’Brien’s; just friends you haven’t met yet!’ And meet them you will – over international beers and wine, as well as a food menu brimming with popular international eats like Fish and chips (B375) and New Zealand lamb chop (B495), Irish favourites such as Lamb stew (B399) and Beef and Guinness pie (B495), and even a few local snacks (try the Roasted pork neck salad B205). A kids’ menu is also available with all dishes at just B145.
“The menu we provide is the same at each of our pubs.” explains Liam. “We offer pub favourites made with quality ingredients, and our lunch promotion is unrivalled – 50 percent off all food from 12 noon till 2pm every day.”
As well as being a great spot for lunch, dinner, viewing live sports, and just hanging out with friends, Flann O’Brien’s pubs are also well geared to hosting networking functions. Especially the Thonglor venue, which boasts a rooftop terrace that can host 300 guests, and the Asiatique branch, whose sprawling open-plan room can easily accommodate 500 people.
“Basically, we’ve carefully designed Flann O'Brien's so that it offers something for everyone,” says Liam. “No matter which of our pubs you visit, you can be sure to receive the same great service, delicious food, and cold international beers on tap.”
For more information about Flann O’Brien’s and its various outlets see
www.flann-obriens.com
“Some people have joked we want to be the McDonald’s of Irish pubs,” says the pub’s Group Director, Liam Herrity, a quick-witted Irish fellow who delivers one-liners with the ease of a seasoned comedian. “But while we’re certainly a fast growing brand, one which we’re looking to franchise in the region, we have a real focus on personalized service and high quality food. And our customers are loving it…Wait a minute. Isn't that somebody else’s slogan?”
The pub’s own slogan is actually ‘No Stranger at Flann O’Brien’s; just friends you haven’t met yet!’ And meet them you will – over international beers and wine, as well as a food menu brimming with popular international eats like Fish and chips (B375) and New Zealand lamb chop (B495), Irish favourites such as Lamb stew (B399) and Beef and Guinness pie (B495), and even a few local snacks (try the Roasted pork neck salad B205). A kids’ menu is also available with all dishes at just B145.
“The menu we provide is the same at each of our pubs.” explains Liam. “We offer pub favourites made with quality ingredients, and our lunch promotion is unrivalled – 50 percent off all food from 12 noon till 2pm every day.”
As well as being a great spot for lunch, dinner, viewing live sports, and just hanging out with friends, Flann O’Brien’s pubs are also well geared to hosting networking functions. Especially the Thonglor venue, which boasts a rooftop terrace that can host 300 guests, and the Asiatique branch, whose sprawling open-plan room can easily accommodate 500 people.
“Basically, we’ve carefully designed Flann O'Brien's so that it offers something for everyone,” says Liam. “No matter which of our pubs you visit, you can be sure to receive the same great service, delicious food, and cold international beers on tap.”
For more information about Flann O’Brien’s and its various outlets see
www.flann-obriens.com