Coronavirus Forces Port’s Irish Pub To Close On St. Patrick’s Day

PORT WASHINGTON, NY — Port Washington’s popular Irish pub Finn MacCool’s has temporarily closed after recent COVID-19 exposure, prompting patrons to send their support and love over its Facebook page.

Management for the pub, which is named after the legendary Irish hero, penned a March 13 letter to patrons on Facebook announcing the closure, saying that after consulting with “the appropriate authorities” they decided to close until further notice, and they will be using the time to “disinfect accordingly,” according to the post.

Finn MacCool’s staff member will be required to return a negative COVID-19 test before they return to work in accordance with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines, the post stated.

“We are taking every precautionary measure to help ensure the health and safety of our employees, patrons and the entire Port Washington community,” the post stated. “We apologize for any inconvenience caused, and thank you for your cooperation.”

An inquiry to the restaurant went unanswered on Tuesday.

The announcement left many patrons and members of the community disappointed that the pub will be closed for St. Patrick’s day, but also concerned for the health of the staff. They took to Facebook soon after the news was posted to offer their support for its workers and owner, Connie O’Reilly.

Assemb. Gina Sillitti thanked the restaurant’s management for “doing the right thing” for the community.

“I’m so sorry, and I know the timing really stinks. Hang in there,” she responded to the restaurant’s Facebook post.

One patron wrote, “So sorry to hear this. Be well and stay safe.”

Another patron wrote, “Take care, my friends.”

Yet another patron wrote, “Looking forward to you reopening. Stay Safe. Sending love.”

The closure will mark the second St. Patrick’s Day in a row that the business has been affected by COVID-19. Last year, state Gov, Andrew Cuomo deemed restaurants and bars non-essential businesses and ordered them to close their dining rooms on March 16, the day before St. Patrick’s Day.