In 1983, Máróg O’ Brien opened Farmgate in Midleton, County Cork selling fruit and vegetables, fresh soda breads and homemade tarts and quiches.
In 1987 it expanded due to popularity & moved to what was an old tyre garage nearby on the Coolbawn, just off Main Street. It quickly became a much loved food store, bakery and restaurant- Farmgate traded there right up until October 2023.
After 40 years of trading in Midleton- Farmgate was forced to close due to severe flood damage in October 2023. The damage caused by the flooding was so extensive that everything was lost in a matter of hours. Everything totally destroyed by flood damage.
With no flood insurance, having been flooded previously in 2018 – it was a very sad and traumatic ending for Farmgate in Midleton.
It was a case of starting all over again, from scratch.
Sally O’ Brien, having worked for her mother Máróg at Farmgate Midleton for 20 years is now delighted to welcome you to her new business venture, Farmgate Lismore.
What was an old bar run by the Casey sisters with wonderful character has been sensitively preserved and extensive work has been carried out on the rest of the ground floor which leads to the very beautiful, old world garden at the rear.
Although most of what Marog and Sally had sadly lost in the flooding is no longer- here you will find the exquisite sculpture collection by Michael Quane. A comforting reminder of Farmgate Midleton- indeed what was an integral part of Farmgate for many decades.
Farmgate Lismore offers casual dining in a beautiful interior, warm service and flavoursome food. The food is fresh, local and seasonal. Handled with the minimum of fuss.
In January 2026 Farmgate was awarded with a MICHELIN Bib Gourmand and then in May “All Ireland Winner for Best Casual Dining” at the Irish Restaurant Awards.
Farmgate Lismore operates Thursday to Sunday weekly.
Reservations can be made by email only.