McNally’s reopens with new ownership this week

June 2, 2025

McNally’s Irish Pub returns to serving guests this week.

The bar and restaurant at 6211 S. Old Village Place originally opened in 2006 and closed late last year.

Founder Nicki Ellerbroek almost had given up on finding a buyer when one appeared in her neighborhood: Zach and Angie Porter, who had been regulars at McNally’s.

Zach Porter, who also is co-owner of NuAge Builders, put together a small investment group that included friends from the Brant Lake area, John and Melissa Dougan. The couple owned The Shipwreck Bar & Grill on the lake near Chester for several years before selling it in 2023.

Melissa Dougan now is managing partner at McNally’s, while is scheduled to reopen Tuesday.

While much of the feel remains the same, the pub’s new owners upgraded the TVs, including adding one between the bar and front windows.

There’s also new booth seating between the dining room and bar area “to distinctly separate that,” Porter said. “It looks nice and breaks it up and makes it easier for families.”

All ages will be welcome in the dining room, with the bar area set aside for those 21 and older.

Outside, Porter worked on the landscaping, and “we dressed it up,” he said. “We’re going to be open seven days a week, and we’re going to try to keep both bars going.”

The kitchen added a fryer, which allowed for a revised menu.

Customers will still find favorites such as Irish nachos, a classic Reuben, Irish cobb salad and a selection of burgers and Philly sandwiches.

Classic Irish entrees such as fish and chips, bangers and mash, and corned beef and cabbage are included too. New additions include a grilled red snapper served with jasmine rice and Creole sauce and dishes that take advantage of the fryer such as french fries and chicken strips.

There’s also a kids menu.

During test events, “the food has been coming out tasting awesome,” Porter said. “There’s just a few little tweaks (left to make), and it’s very simple stuff. It’s all really, really good.”

There also could be other food-related partnerships added once the restaurant is open, he said.

There will be happy hour served from 3 to 6 p.m. weekdays that includes $2 off well drinks, wines and tap beers. Brunch is coming but on hold until after opening, Porter said. Entertainment will be coming back soon too.

A handful of former employees also have returned to help staff McNally’s, including a former bartender and longtime servers.

“So far, it’s been a great response” from the neighborhood and regulars as word spread that the restaurant is reopening, Porter added.

Hours are 11.a.m to 12 a.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. Friday and Saturday and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday. The kitchen will close at 10 p.m. daily.

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