Tributes have been paid to Arthur McAnerney, the Belfast restaurant owner with deep family connections to Armagh, after his death on Wednesday — his 50th birthday.
Arthur, who was from Priorylands, Rooskey, in Carlingford, County Louth, was remembered as a father of seven who touched lives across Carlingford, Belfast and Armagh. One tribute described him as “a lovely gentleman who loved a laugh”, a phrase that has been echoed among the many messages shared since his death.
His death was announced as tributes were paid to a man widely respected by those who knew him. Arthur was the son of Catherine and the late Vincent McAnerney, who founded McAnerney’s Supermarket on Irish Street in Armagh during the 1980s. Vincent died in 2013.
Arthur was also brother to Nicola, Patrick, Clodagh, Paula and Aidan. He was described in the funeral notice as the “beloved husband and best friend” of Maria and the “adored dad” of Oran, Aoibheann, Faye, Vicky, Lewis, Sebastian and Sophia.
City Picnic owner remembered
Known as a determined and energetic businessman, Arthur owned City Picnic in Belfast. He opened the Castle Street restaurant 15 years ago with co-founder and chef Gavin Gregg, and the business developed a loyal and growing customer base.
City Picnic was forced to close its premises after the devastating Primark fire in August 2018. The restaurant continued trading from mobile premises before reopening in December the following year after a £500,000 refurbishment, with a new look and menu.
Those who worked with Arthur remembered him as more than an employer. He was described as a friend who took a genuine interest in the people around him, leaving colleagues feeling privileged to have worked alongside him.
City Picnic confirmed his death on Wednesday evening, saying the business was responding with “profound sadness”. The company said Arthur would be deeply missed by his family, friends and everyone who knew him.
“Arthur was a much-loved husband, devoted father to seven wonderful children, and a cherished son, brother, family member and friend to so many. He will be deeply missed by everyone who knew and loved him.”
Tributes from colleagues and the hospitality sector
Hospitality Ulster also paid tribute to Arthur, describing him as a gentleman who would be fondly remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing him. The organisation offered its condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.
“We are deeply shocked and saddened by the passing of Arthur, a true gentleman who will be fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with his family, friends, and colleagues at this incredibly difficult time. Rest in peace, Arthur.”
Messages shared online recalled Arthur’s passion for his work and his commitment to making City Picnic a success. One former colleague described him as a wonderful, passionate person who was deeply invested in the restaurant. Another said he was a character who would be greatly missed.
Funeral arrangements
Arthur’s funeral will take place on Saturday. Funeral Mass is scheduled for 11.30am at St Michael’s Church in Carlingford, followed by burial at St Michael’s Cemetery.
In the funeral notice, Arthur’s family wrote: “Some lights burn so bright they leave no shadow. You lived fully, loved fiercely, and gave us everything. Forever our protector, forever our joy. Your beautiful energy lives on in our hearts.”
Sympathy has been extended to Maria, their seven children, Arthur’s mother, siblings and the wider family circle.