In 1983 Maróg O'Brien established Farmgate in Midleton, Co. Cork as a small food shop specialising in local, seasonal, fresh produce. In 1988 it expanded to a larger premises to develop, along with its shop, the now renowned Farmgate Restaurant and Bakery. A generation later Maróg is now joined by her daughter, Sally O'Brien to further continue this well loved concept. Farmgate is supported and loved, particularly by local patrons, and has now become a national and international landmark.

The concept is based on Regional food, supporting in particular local producers. Cheeses are local; duck is free-range; lamb and beef are locally reared; fish is landed at Ballycotton Pier. These are handled simply, with a minimum of fuss and delivered with an honest simplicity. Our cooking style is a blend of traditional and modern Irish.

In 1994 Maróg was joined by her sister Kay Harte when Farmgate Café was established in Cork's historic English Market, the most famous food emporium in Ireland.