New Laois Gastro Pub Set To Launch

Tuesday, 9 June 2026 09:34

By Courtney Callaghan

The Old Canal is the new and refurbished Turley’s Bar.

Changes are underway in the heart of Mountmellick as Turley’s Bar begins a brand-new chapter with a full kitchen build currently in progress and a fresh new identity.

Soon to be known as The Old Canal, the pub takes its name from the historic canal that once ran behind the building, a nod to Mountmellick’s rich heritage.

The new name reflects both tradition and a fresh start, honouring the past while creating something new for the community to enjoy.

At the helm are new proprietors Joanne Deegan and Barry Liscombe, who are bringing passion, experience and a shared vision to the transformation.

Joanne, a Mountmellick native, has an unwavering passion for Hospitality, With a strong background in sales, marketing and hospitality management. She wants to create a welcoming space that locals can truly call their own, somewhere that blends the warmth of a traditional pub with the quality and atmosphere of a modern gastro venue.

Award-winning Chef Barry Liscombe, best known locally for his time as Executive Head Chef with Hartes of Kildare.

Barry has built a reputation for Transforming Local Pubs into industry leading gastropubs, championing local produce, a passion for Irish food heritage, earning multiple industry awards throughout his career, including Inclusion in The top 100 restaurants in Ireland 7 years in a row and recommendation in the michelin guide. His approach is simple, great ingredients, cooked with care, and served in a relaxed, friendly setting.

The brand-new State of the art kitchen will allow The Old Canal to offer a premium gastro pub menu featuring modern Irish dishes alongside elevated pub favourites with comfort and quality at the forefront.

Speaking about the project, Joanne says: “This is something I’ve always wanted to do, to bring a new energy to a place that means so much to the town. We want The Old Canal to feel familiar and welcoming, but with something really special on the plate.”

Barry added: “We are creating food that people will be excited to come back for. Good, honest cooking with a few surprises along the way, is all about giving Mountmellick a dining experience to be proud of.”

More updates, including opening dates and menu previews, will be shared soon on their social media pages.