Top chef Brian McMonagle's new Letterkenny restaurant Market Lane set to open

Letterkenny is to welcome a new restaurant in the heart of the town, Market Lane.

Chef Brian McMonagle is the owner of the new business which will open at 9 Market Square, formerly Pat’s on the Square.

It was planned to open this weekend, although that has been deferred with the finishing touches being put in place.

“Despite constant perseverance over the past few weeks, we have encountered a few obstacles in the past few days which means we are unable to open as planned,” they posted. 

“Despite this, Market Lane will still be opening very soon and we’ll be in touch in the coming days with further updates. Thanks for your patience and we look forward to welcoming you all as soon as possible!”

A native of Rareagh, Churchill, Brian has a wealth of experience since graduating from Culinary Arts at Killybegs Catering College, including working as head chef at Arnolds Hotel in Dunfanaghy aged just 21, the Highlands Hotel in Glenties and The Copper Tap Omagh.

At O’Gradys On the Pier in Galway, he took up the post as head chef winning many accolades at a national level.

He returned to Letterkenny in 2011 for a brief period before he found himself in Donaghmore, Co Tyrone on the steps of The Brewer’s House. There, he built up a fantastic reputation gaining awards such as the Best Restaurant in Northern Ireland, Best Chef in Ulster and RAI Best Gastropub in Ireland in 2013. He was named Tyrone Chef of the Year six times.

Market Lane posted some sneak previews of the transformation of the 40-seater restaurant last week, including their dining room which has undergone a huge transformation.

"The wood panelling reflects the ploughed fields of the county we all call home, and the natural green and ivory hues are reflected in the walls and bench seating!" they posted. "With special thanks to Brian’s brother John at Grainhouse Kitchens, and some of the artwork by Jim McKee."