Halligan's celebrates 10th anniversary in Warwick

WARWICK — The popular Village of Warwick restaurant, Halligan's Public House, first opened at 22 West St. on Nov. 4, 2005.

Local businessman Bob Lax and New York City firefighters Sean Corrigan and John Kelly had partnered to establish an Irish pub with a fire department theme. All three men had many years of restaurant experience and decided to open the new pub in their hometown.

On Wednesday, Nov. 4, Town of Warwick Supervisor Michael Sweeton, Mayor Michael Newhard and members of the Warwick Valley Chamber of Commerce, joined current partners John Kelly, Brian Smith and Jim Smith (no relation) and their families for a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Founding partner Bob Lax was unable to be present that afternoon.

The name of the business comes from the Halligan tool, which is universally used by firefighters. And the Public House is a traditional Irish name for the local community-gathering place.

"The goal from the onset," said Kelly, "was to create a place where people could grab a cold beer and a good burger in a family-friendly environment."

The owners also knew that it was important to be a part of their strong Warwick community by supporting local groups and hosting fund-raising events.

The owners recently completed an interior renovation to update the look of the establishment. And again hired their original contractor, Michael Talty, to do the work.

"Halligan's," said Kelly, "has always tried to maintain a warm, comfortable atmosphere that befits its slogan, 'Where friends meet.' We are very grateful to the community for its continued patronage and happy to see the evolution of Warwick as a destination for out of town visitors. "

Essential information
Halligan's is open seven days from 11:30 a.m. to midnight during the week and until 1:30 a.m. on Friday and Saturday.

Lunch is served every day and dinner is served weekdays until 10:00 p.m. and until 11:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

- Roger Gavan