It's been confirmed that Sober Lane, located in Irishtown, Dublin 4, has changed hands in a private treaty deal.
According to selling agents CBRE, the property was sold by Cork-based publican Ernest Cantillon and was acquired by veteran Dublin publican Jim Stafford along with his son Will and daughter Emilene, who also owns and operates the award-winning Merry’s Gastropub in Dungarvan, Co Waterford.
The sale price has not been disclosed but market sources understand that a price close to €1.2m was achieved for the property.
The property comprises a two storey over basement licensed premises. Behind the traditional exterior lies an extensive licensed premises which extends to 494 sq m (5,300 sq ft) in total. The ground floor comprises a public bar, lounge bar and restaurant with a modern catering kitchen. In the basement there is a cellar and beer cold room while overhead there are several rooms used for storage.
It is understood that the Stafford family intend to refurbish the premises with an emphasis on high quality food, craft beers and spirits.
According to John Ryan of CBRE the sale of Sober Lane reflects "the strengthening of the suburban pub market with a growing sense of confidence returning to the licensed trade in general. The sale of Sober Lane attracted interest from a diverse range of publicans and restauranteurs who recognized the business development potential of the premises".
