"It is perhaps fitting that the Murphy family motto is ""Fortis et Hospitable"" which, roughly translated, means brave and hospitable. The process of building a 200 seat contemporary Irish restaurant in a run down, 1920's former funeral home has been a project of epic proportions; definitely not a journey for the faint-hearted. The brainchild of Jim Murphy who, prior to his death early in 2003, had dreamed of bringing a contemporary twist to Irish cuisine in Chicago. Already the owner of the very popular Wrigleyville bar, Murphy's Bleachers, he felt that fine dining had yet to make its debut in his hometown. The building's structure has been painstakingly renovated by Joe Zapora, with many of the best of the original features being preserved. Artisans and craftspeople alike have been involved with the project, blending modern elements with the old to create a warm, inviting and unique environment."