The family behind Magnolias at the Mill has purchased a downtown Leesburg building long known as Payne’s Biker Bar and currently home to Downtown Saloon, with plans to convert the space into a traditional Irish pub.
Evan Malone along with his wife, Meaghan and mother Kathleen are behind the project at 5 and 7 N. King St. With the property sale finalized, the family intends to open the pub, whose name has not yet been announced, in fall 2026.
Downtown Saloon will continue to operate through July 4 before closing. Renovations to convert the space into the new pub are scheduled to take place this summer.
Evan Malone said a traditional Irish pub in downtown Leesburg had long been a dream he shared with his late father, Kevin Malone. He said he was glad to bring the concept to life alongside his family and to pay homage to his father and their shared love of hospitality and Ireland.
The Malones’ Restaurant Background
The Malone family has long operated restaurants in Loudoun County. Kevin Malone, who died in 2023, founded Tuskie’s Hospitality Group, which runs Tuscarora Mill, South Street Under and the Birkby House event venue in Leesburg, Magnolias at the Mill in Purcellville and the Fire Works pizzeria. Evan Malone is also a co-owner of Maggie’s Corner Cafe, a bakery and cafe from the Magnolias at the Mill team at 713 E. Main St. in Purcellville.
The pub’s name and a firm opening date are expected to be announced at a later time.
