Since 1965, the Cairn Croft or “the Croft” as it became to be known as, located inside the Best Western Plus Cairn Croft Hotel on Lundy’s Lane was a gathering place for the over 30 crowd in Niagara Falls. It was the place to go for locals and regulars to relax, have a drink, play pool, and maybe even engage in a little karaoke in a laid-back adult setting. As one of Niagara Fall’s oldest hotel bars, it had already established itself as staple to the tourist laden street of Lundy’s Lane, and drew in both familiar faces and new customers every day. Now, almost exactly a month from its opening date, the all-new Doc Magilligan’s Irish Pub has replaced the Cairn Croft in order to revamp the setting into something else entirely.
Lisa Smith, the Director of Marketing and Sales at the Best Western Plus Cairn Croft Hotel told the Niagara Falls Review that “We appreciate all the loyal customers that we’ve had over the years, but we felt that we needed to expand and get something fresh and new to get a more all-around clientele”.
And renovate they did! The decor is completely unrecognizable with its Irish flair (built entirely in Ireland and shipped to Niagara Falls). Doc Magilligan’s is still owned by Cairn Croft brothers Len and Fred Cade, so some things remain the same — but that’s where the similarities end. Fred’s wife, Maureen Cade, is the inspiration behind the new namesake. Maureen’s great great grandfather, “Doc Magilligan” was a beloved Irish doctor known both for his nurturing care and his fun-loving attitude at the local pubs around town. It was fitting to honor his name through this new establishment.
*Pictured Above: Doc Magilligan’s Exterior. 6400 Lundy’s Lane, Niagara Falls,ON.*
The General Manager of Doc Magilligan’s, Leo O’Toole, has 27 years of experience in the restaurant and pub business behind his belt. And yes, with a last name of “O’Toole”, you best believe that he is authentically Irish! Leo is originally from Dublin, so he had a huge hand in crafting Doc Magilligan’s into the gorgeous Irish-infused restaurant it has transpired into.
“The bookshelves, the panels on the walls and the full bar were all made in Ireland, shipped over in three containers and then installed and put together here, including all the furniture” O’Toole stated.
*Pictured Above: The interior of Doc Magilligan’s. Crisp, clean and authentically Irish!*
The restaurant is 5,500 square feet and everything from the moment you step inside is Irish. Not only the decor, but the full food and drink menu is also Irish-inspired. While local brews and Niagara wines will also be readily available, you can expect to see Guinness, Smithwick’s, Kilkenny and Harp on tap and some good ol’ fashioned British food like “Shepherd’s Pie” and “Banger’s and Mash” for starters!
Corporate parties and groups are welcome at Doc Magilligan’s with seating for 270 and a capacity for 300 patrons. In addition, Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings, as well as Sunday afternoons, there is always live entertainment!
O’Toole mentioned that he wants everyone that walks through the doors to feel like they are at home. Where locals know each others names and new faces are served with a smile — so be sure to welcome Doc Magilligan’s as the newest addition to the Niagara Falls restaurant and nightlife scene.
Contact: 905-374-0021
Hours: Sunday – Thursday 7:30 am – Midnight
Friday & Saturday 7:30 am – 2:00 am
For Groups and Parties contact: 905.356.1161
Christine Lynn
www.cliftonhill.com
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