New Irish pub in Oakley opens doors on St. Patrick's Day

Restoration work has yet to be completed, but a new Oakley pub will open its doors March 17, even if there is still a bit of plaster dust layering the counter.

The Flying Pig Irish Pub will have a pre-opening party, appropriately on St.Patrick's Day.

"How can we not open on St. Patrick's Day?" said owner John Cody, a native of London now residing in Oakley.

And will green beer be served to celebrate the occasion? A look of disdain crosses Cody's face at the very thought. "If you put (in) green dye, I think St. Patrick would be upset," he said. "That's the old way.

"Now people want real Irish beer."

Plenty of Guinness and local craft beers will be on tap.

Cody, who works in home improvement, said he wanted to create a place where residents can get together hearkening back to the pubs of old.

Even the name is significant. Cody said he wanted an animal name in the title, and what could be more appropriate than the "flying pig," which immediately calls to mind the Tristate.

And don't call it a bar either, he added. It's a pub. "I want people to have a cozy experience where you make friends," he said. "That is what a pub should be."

"It's a public space where neighbors can become friends and enjoy conversation."

Cody has made an effort to capture that "cozy" feeling in the layout of the pub. A set piece in the establishment is an old mahogany fireplace, which he said has a history of its own. Be sure to ask him, he'll be glad to share the story.

What had previously been the Pub Cafe is undergoing considerable renovation work indoors. Cody said he is trying to restore the building to its original condition. He estimates the building dates back to the early 1900s. Restoration work began about five months ago.

Daily hours have yet to be set. As far as when to arrive on St. Patrick's Day, Cody said just to come on over. "It's a special day," he said.

The Flying Pig Irish Pub is at 3265 Brotherton Road across from the Oakley fire station.