Anyone who has visited The Skiff knows Papa Joe. Over 23 years ago, Papa Joe opened the doors to The Skiff Inn. What started as a humble venture quickly became a local favourite, known not only for its food but also for its warmth and community spirit. For regulars, Papa Joe isn’t just the owner, he’s the heart and soul, with many customers first visiting as children and now returning as adults.
It's a family business and there's a new generation at the helm. From day one, The Skiff Inn has been a family-run business, with the kind of care and connection you can only find at your second home. Over the years, even staff and customers have been welcomed into the fold, blood or not, everyone becomes part of the extended Skiff family. Today, Ciara and Robbie, Papa Joe’s granddaughter and grandson, have taken the reins. With Papa Joe’s values deeply rooted in their approach, they continue to uphold the traditions while bringing fresh energy and ideas to the table.
After years of working in restaurants Papa Joe opened his own ice cream parlour where he shone. But before long Papa Joe set his sights on something bigger, a place where people could gather, laugh, and enjoy comforting, delicious meals. That dream would soon become a reality.
At just 11 years old, a young Papa Joe took his first steps into the hospitality world. Growing up in an Italian family, food and community were a way of life. His early experience in kitchens sparked a lifelong passion for great service and authentic cuisine. He learned from the ground up, working every role there was within a restaurant.
Being a large Italian family we hold family values and traditions in very high regard, none more so than the importance of enjoying a meal with children. Papa Joe prides himself in the Rolls-Royce of highchairs for babies, they are cushioned and have reclining features so if the little one nods off, they can relax in comfort while everyone else enjoys their meal. Plus we have a treasure chest filled with dolls, cars and toys of all descriptions to keep everyone entertained.
Twenty-three years is no mean feat and over the years we have built some amazing friendships which will last a lifetime. With customers who we served as toddlers now returning as adults with their own families. We are there for the family gatherings, birthday celebrations, engagements and even the solo pint at the bar.
Michael, featured in this photo with Papa Joe is one of our regulars; he is part of the furniture and is always the first to try our Specials menu and give them his seal of approval.
