The Irish Lion, a locally owned restaurant in Bloomington, located on 212 W Kirkwood Ave., will be closing its doors Friday due to the owner retiring.
“Rest assured, pub favorites will still be available after two weeks and throughout the summer as Irish Lion transitions to a delivery-only beginning on or before May 22,” the family who owns the restaurant posted on Facebook May 7.
Since the restaurant's announcement on May 7, it has been operating with a limited menu and walk-in seating.
In March 2022, the owner announced they were searching for a new owner and were putting the restaurant up for sale according to an Herald Times article.
The building was originally a bar and a hotel in the early 1800s, and then was designed and used as a pub and Inn in 1882 according to the restaurant's website. After many taverns and billiard establishments came and left, and a brief vacancy, the building was purchased by the McConnaughy family in 1979. The Irish Restaurant and Pub opened its doors in 1982. The McConnaughy family has owned and operated the restaurant since then.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to our amazing team, loyal guests, and valued business and community partners for their unwavering support, which has been instrumental in the ongoing success of the Irish Lion, the family posted on Facebook. "Be sure to follow us on social media for upcoming announcements* Sláinte!”
