Geneva's Claddagh closes after 15 years

GENEVA – The Claddagh Irish Pub, an Irish-themed eatery and bar that was an original restaurant for 15 years at the Geneva Commons shopping mall will close Nov. 18, officials said.

Its Monday special of buy one, get one fish and chips, traditional shepherd’s pie, bangers and mash and Gaelic chicken will be no more. The pub also offered Irish music and other entertainment, as well as being available for private parties.

“This is happening,” Nicole, a manager at The Claddagh said. She would not give her last name.

“It’s a decline in business. When the Commons opened, we were the original restaurant still here. It’s very unfortunate," Nicole said.

About 15 staff members will lose their jobs, the manager said.

The Claddagh, at 1502 Commons Drive, is part of chain, serving "modern twists on the finest traditional cuisine paired with perfect pints of beer in an authentic and friendly setting," according to its website, www.claddaghirishpubs.com.

The website states there are 10 locations, but it also lists three that are closed in Toledo and Columbus, Ohio and one of three in Indianapolis.

The online message for the eatery in Columbus, was, "Thank you to all of our patrons for your support over the years. We will miss serving you and your families. This location is closed."

An online message from the management and staff at the Toledo location stated, "Thank you for your patronage for 13+ years and allowing us to serve you."

The company still lists Geneva and other locations in Michigan, Minnesota and Pennsylvania as still open.

Messages left at the Claddagh corporate headquarters in Solon, Ohio seeking comment were not returned.

Geneva Commons property manager Cathy Charhut said the restaurant’s lease expires at the end of the month.

“We are talking to other restaurant users but nothing I can name,” Charhut said. “People’s likes and tastes change, but this is an opportunity to put something new in there. Hopefully, that is going to be another draw for the shopping center.”