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Formerly known as Eileen’s Country Kitchen, the eatery was initially established in 1997 by Eileen Mannion.
Mannion decided to close the eatery to rethink strategy and redecorate with some modern flair, including exposed brick, new lighting fixtures and more.
"The old diner concept is dying," Mannion told Lohud. "The restaurant business has changed due to the advent of apps such as Grub Hub, Door Dash and Uber Eats and we restaurateurs need to change with the times."
In an effort to adapt, Mannion says her new restaurant is more sophisticated and in line with what people want.
While Irish classics like Shepherd’s Pie, Irish breakfast and corned beef and cabbage will remain on the menu, Mannion says she’s added some “clean, fresh food” options to the menu, including steaks, burgers and salmon.
The grand opening of Eileen’s included a ribbon-cutting ceremony with Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano and the Rev. Brendan Fitzgerald, pastor of St. Barnabas Parish, on Saturday, March 30.
It’s no surprise that the new Eileen’s is already standing up to its reputation as a Yonkers staple, garnering several positive ratings on Facebook since the grand opening.
“Looks beautiful inside, staff very friendly and food was good as always,” wrote Donna N. in an April 5 Facebook review.
Mannion says another new focus of her restaurant is the private event business, which includes family celebrations like communions as well as wedding rehearsals, bridal showers and other private parties. The newly rearranged space can fit 110 people.
For now, Mannion says, the restaurant is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. seven days a week. As any business owner should, Mannion also notes that she plans to listen to customers and adapt to their needs.
“I'm going to follow the lead of the community and take it day by day. This neighborhood has been especially kind to me and I want to know from them how I can best serve them,” said Mannion. "The main thing is to always provide a first-class product and represent where I come from and my culture as best as I can in terms of hospitality and welcome."
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