A unique new bar has just opened beneath the well-trodden streets of Killarney. Pig’s Lane on College Street, is the town’s first underground drinks spot offering hand-crafted cocktails designed by a world champion mixologist; sustainably selected natural, regenerative and vegan wines; locally sourced snacks and small plates; a whiskey parlour; and live music from both well-known and up-and-coming artists. 

Making its opening debut earlier this month, the subterranean venue has been developed by the innovative and sustainably-minded family-run team behind the award-winning Café du Parc, The Tan Yard and O’Donoghue Public House – the O’Donoghue Ring Collection.

Pig’s Lane is a nod to the former name of the original site on which the new bar now stands. In the early 1900’s, Pig’s Lane ran from college street through Railway Road.

Enter through the striking, lamp-lit arched doorway and descend the dramatic tiled staircase reminiscent of underground railways of old, into the beautifully crafted subterranean bar. Designed with quality, provenance and creativity in mind, every element of the new venue – from the reclaimed décor to the delicious drinks and dishes – adds another layer of enjoyment and intrigue to any evening.

Behind the scenes, drinks aficionado Ariel Sanecki, the newly appointed Drinks Development Manager for the O’Donoghue Ring Collection, has poured his years of experience competing in (and winning) cocktail competitions across the world into creating a meticulously crafted cocktail menu. A veritable showcase of the best Irish spirits and liquor is accompanied by locally sourced, seasonal fruit and herb garnishes and signature homemade syrups.

Groups of four or more can gather around gorgeous antiquated punch bowls and feel immersed in the time-honoured art of sipping and sharing libations containing local spirits, cold brew herbal teas and refreshing hints of fruit.

Meanwhile, a unique wine list has been lovingly curated from a selection of natural, biodynamic, and sustainable varieties specifically sourced from small producers committed to nurturing the environment through every drop they create.  Wines from Romania, Crete, Czech Republic, and Lebanon, promise to take wine enthusiasts on a journey beyond traditional terroirs and contribute towards a wine list that is working towards reducing C02 emissions and a greener future.

Uncover the hidden whiskey parlour – a distiller’s den lined with more than 120 rare quality bottles sourced from the best producers and collectors internationally. Whilst the finest Scotch, Japanese and Bourbon bottles have their place, the focus is on premium Irish whiskeys with plenty of exclusive and rare releases to be discovered.

Newly appointed Group Development Chef Janice Casey Brackens has used her passion for provenance to create a menu of snacks and small plates combining the freshest of ingredients sourced from local and Irish suppliers, along with the group’s innovative Killarney Urban Farm located right next door. These tempting sidekicks provide the perfect accompaniment to any drinks order.

Music moves with the mood with a diverse mix of genres to suit all tastes. The eclectic and versatile house playlist sets an ambient tone as you sip, savour and mingle with friends, whilst well-known artists, bands and DJ’s are bringing their live acts underground for some intimate performances.

Open seven days a week from 5pm, Pig’s Lane has arrived just in time to provide a one-of-a-kind hideaway for the darker months ahead.