Off the beaten track between Ballyhaunis and Claremorris, 'Mayo's culinary secret' is easy to spot with its bright cream and red colour scheme and an old Austin delivery van parked outside - a reminder that Flanagan's (now in its fifth generation of family ownership) once provided the traditional village combination of bar, grocery and hardware that was so common in rural Ireland up to the 1970s.
A big change came in 2010 when the owners of some fifteen years, Luke and Caroline Flanagan, embarked on a major renovation job with the aim of transforming the old premises into a modern gastro pub, which now has a private dining room as well as a heated smoking area.
But if that all sounds a bit drastic, you should be pleasantly surprised on arrival as the first thing to strike you is the very pleasant atmosphere ("a bit like Nevins in Mulranny", commented one happy customer), largely because the staff, all local, are so friendly and helpful.
The smart modern theme is mainly cream, with dark wooden furniture - including some fashionably high tables with banquette seating along the walls, which are great for people watching although maybe better suited to younger customers out without children. (A point worth bearing in mind as it's very much a multi-generational venue.)
Now a top food destination in East Mayo, Caroline has created a warm family-friendly atmosphere front of house - and , in the kitchen, along with the steaks that they are especially famous for (all beef is hung for over forty five days), the menu is constantly changing to welcome local artisan suppliers like Andarl Farm, Velvet Cloud, Galway Goat Farm, The Village Farm, Millhouse Farm and Keane's Butchers.
The extensive drinks offering follows the same theme, with a selection of craft beers from Mayo, Roscommon and Athlone, and cider from Armagh on offer, as well as a Gin Menu from the four corners of Ireland. Also, a dozen or so wines are offered in several sizes - bottle, carafe, glass and a special 125cl "driver's glass", which is a great idea for any rural pub/restaurant.
A visit to Brickens is worth the journey.
