Sláinte! Pub calls last rounds after 25 years
The popular establishment closed its doors on May 12.
With the gentle chime of glasses packed into the boxes, a sombre atmosphere fills the spaces of the once vibrant McGinty’s Traditional Irish Pub at Northmead Square.
Owner, Paul Coucourakis, looks on as his remaining staff label and packs the outlet’s movable assets, marking the end of an era for one of the city’s best-loved watering holes.
After 25 years of serving patrons from near and far, McGinty’s called the final rounds on May 12.
According to Paul, the decision to close the pub and restaurant was made after a deadlock in lease renewal negotiations between him and the owners of the centre.
“At the time of renegotiating our lease agreement, I had already started toying with the idea of looking for a suitable buyer to take the business over from me, allowing me time to slip into retirement,” he said.
“Unfortunately, the landlords and I could not agree on a shorter lease period and it forced me to make this unfortunate decision.”
As his eyes drift across the empty fridges, Paul says despite the loyal support of the community, the business needed a little more time to recover from the devastating effects of the Covid-19 lockdown regulations.
“Financially, we were still a viable business, but we needed the right momentum to carry us over the threshold. We were certain that the 2023 Rugby World Cup was what we needed,” said Paul.
“My team showed great resilience throughout every obstacle we faced over the past three years. From Covid to soaring prices driven by the war in Ukraine, they maintained a high level of service and quality.”
In 2017, Paul successfully purchased McGinty’s trademark from Famous Brands, as it was the last remaining outlet operating under the name.
It was one of the original tenants at Northmead Square and has been in operation since 1994.
“It has been an immense pleasure to have been part of the Benoni community for so many years,” said Paul.
“I want to thank our loyal customers for their ongoing support and for making a last toast during our closing week. I have no regrets. I was privileged to have spent my days in your company.”
Speaking of his most cherished memory, Paul says an unexpected visit from Prince Albert II of Monaco stands head and shoulders above the rest.
“The prince popped in with his father-in-law, Michael, a long-time McGinty’s patron to enjoy a pint,” he said.
“He arrived without any fanfare and mingled with the regulars. It was an honour to have welcomed him to our establishment.”
Shannon Wulff, head of marketing for Turnkey Solutions, confirmed that McGinty’s lease at the centre has come to an end and the establishment made a decision to no longer continue trading.
“The Bentel Group would like to bid a heartfelt farewell to Paul, who has been a part of the Northmead Square family for many years. We wish Paul and his staff the best of luck in all their future endeavours,” she said.
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