OLDEST IRISH AMERICAN NEWSPAPER IN USA, ESTABLISHED IN 1928

Oliver Cassels

Age: 29.

Place of birth: Yonkers, NY.

Where you live: New York.

Name of Company you work for: Rambler’s Rest.

City you work in: Monroe, NY.

Profession: Restaurateur.

Why did you choose this career? Restaurants have always been a part of my life. My father is a contractor and I spent numerous summers helping him plan and construct various pubs and restaurants throughout New York City. While attending college for four years, I bartended at three locations within the tri-state area where I expanded my knowledge and gained further insight and expertise into the hospitality industry. By age 27, I was ready to become an entrepreneur and open my own bar and restaurant.

What was your proudest moment in the industry? On opening night, February 2011, I returned from Albany with license in hand requesting a police escort to get to the ribbon cutting ceremony. The traffic was so backed up in either direction with patrons eager to attend the opening of Ramblers Rest. It was so gratifying to see how the community embraced this new venture.

Biography: I am a 29 year old Yonkers native and the eldest of five children. I am currently the general manager and co-owner of two Rambler’s Rest bars and restaurants in New York. From a young age, my Irish- born parents, Teresa (Waterford) and John (Leitrim) immersed me in Irish culture and exposed me to a rich traditional heritage. I grew up playing Gaelic Football, taking accordion lessons and competing in the Irish World Dancing Championship as well as touring with Michael Flatley. I received a Catholic School education, attending Annunciation Elementary and Archbishop Stepinac High School before receiving my B.S. in Construction Management from Pratt. I gained valuable managerial experience working as a Construction Project Manager for four  years with Plaza Construction and I Grace in NYC. In 2010, I fulfilled my ambition to become an entrepreneur and business owner by constructing and opening Rambler’s Rest in Monroe with a partner. A year later, we were fortunate to open another Rambler’s Rest in Beekman, NY with Bill Magee as a partner. These areas had a shortage of authentic Irish establishments and we were immediately welcomed by the local community. Both locations offer authentic Irish décor, excellent food and a warm welcoming environment. We pride ourselves on providing superb hospitality, outstanding customer service, and quality food and entertainment.

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