New ‘Fitzgerald’s Bar’ unveiled at The Imperial Hotel Cork

The Louis Fitzgerald Group, one of the largest family-run hospitality groups in the country, purchased the 4-star Imperial Hotel last June and have been investing heavily in the hotel, their first venture in the Cork market

The Imperial Hotel Cork celebrated their newly refurbished and renamed bar, Fitzgerald’s, last night at an event attended by the Lord Mayor of Cork, the local businesses and members of Cork Sporting community.  The launch brought to fruition several months of renovation and design works and featured a special guest performance from Eurovision legend and Irish Music icon Paul Harrington.

This is the Louis Fitzgerald Family first business venture in Cork.

The extensive refurbishment respects the hotel’s 200-year history. The high ceilings  and crystal chandeliers synonymous with this period property are complemented by elegant marble and glass stained columns featuring ornate detailing and portraits of historical figures connected to the building’s past.

A Grand Piano will take centre stage in the bar so guests and visitors can enjoy a mixture of jazz and contemporary players . One of the standout features is a new L-shaped wrap-around bar, set off by  panelling and gold accents.

A new menu with an offering of small bites of local produce will launch from Summer 2025 but for now the focus is on signature cocktails including Fitzgerald Sour, Redbreast Old Fashioned and an Imperial Bramble.

Speaking about the refurb, Louis Fitzgerald, owner of The Imperial Hotel, said: “The Imperial has always been a place where people come together, and we wanted Fitzgerald’s to reflect that. This refurbishment isn’t just about updating the space—it’s about creating an atmosphere where everyone feels welcome, whether they are staying at the hotel and want pre-dinner drinks,  are international visitors looking to soak up a Cork welcome, locals seeking a meeting point for casual drinks and light bites on a  night out, somewhere to celebrate a special occasion or for private events. We look forward to giving a Fitzgerald’s welcome!”

The Louis Fitzgerald Group, one of the largest family-run hospitality groups in the country, purchased the 4-star Imperial Hotel last June and have been investing heavily in the hotel, their first venture in the Cork market.   The family business, headed by Louis Fitzgerald and now in its 54^th year, has a longstanding track record of acquiring landmark properties.  The Group includes the Arlington Hotel, Louis Fitzgerald Hotel and Joels Restaurant, An Poitin Stil, The Stag’s Head, Kehoes Pub, The Quays Bar Galway and most recently, Murphy’s Bar in Galway.

The Imperial boasts a rich history and has welcomed high profile names over the past 200 years including actress Grace Kelly, Prince Rainier of Monaco, Michael Collins, and many others. There are 131 guest rooms, multiple dining options and conference facilities.