2026 SESSION

INTRODUCED

26109005D

HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 260

Offered March 6, 2026

Commending Daniel O'Connell's Irish Restaurant and Bar.

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Patrons—McPike, Callsen, Hope, Martinez, Rasoul, Ward and Ware; Senators: Bennett-Parker and McDougle

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WHEREAS, Daniel O'Connell's Irish Restaurant and Bar, a local institution in Old Town Alexandria that has promoted a strong sense of community in the area, celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2026; and

WHEREAS, Daniel O'Connell's Irish Restaurant and Bar was established by John Brennan and his former business partner Billy O'Sullivan, who purchased the building in 2004 and spent two years conducting extensive renovations; and

WHEREAS, John Brennan and Billy O'Sullivan brought in wood fixtures and antiques from Ireland to create an authentic atmosphere and officially opened Daniel O'Connell's Irish Restaurant and Bar, which is named for a prominent 19th-century Irish politician, in 2006; and

WHEREAS, John Brennan's daughter, Kate, moved to Alexandria in 2023 to serve as general manager of Daniel O'Connell's Irish Restaurant and Bar; and

WHEREAS, in addition to serving traditional Irish dishes to customers every day, Daniel O'Connell's Irish Restaurant and Bar has become a beloved gathering place for locals and a destination for visitors; the business plays an active role in community events, especially the annual Alexandria St. Patrick's Day Parade in Old Town; and

WHEREAS, Daniel O'Connell's Irish Restaurant and Bar commemorated its 20th anniversary on February 28, 2026, with live music, raffles, contests, and specials to show its appreciation for longtime regular customers and the community as a whole; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly hereby commend Daniel O'Connell's Irish Restaurant and Bar on the occasion of its 20th anniversary; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Daniel O'Connell's Irish Restaurant and Bar as an expression of the General Assembly's admiration for its legacy of service to the Alexandria community.