Filed under: featuredarticle, food and wine, literary attractions, Restaurants
Gourmet Grub: A Literary Landmark and Restaurant
Ha'Penny Bridge, River Liffey, Dublin
Where to begin blogging about ? I debated writing about the best live music, the best pint of Guinness, and where to find a good cup of coffee (no small task!) But after careful consideration I thought I should start with a literary landmark that has recently been transformed into a gourmet restaurant.
The Michelin Guide agrees with residents who have praised as one of the best places for authentic, yet gourmet Irish food. What began as a bookshop and cafe in the 1970s where local artists, writers, and musicians would gather for literary events or a pot of tea, is now one of the toughest reservations in the city.
Located along the River Liffey on the North Quays, The Winding Stair restaurant is perched above a quaint bookshop. Take advantage of the prix-fixe lunch special, and dine on two courses for €17.95 or three courses for €22.95 before perusing the shelves of new and used books downstairs.
The menu alone will make you want to travel through Ireland with mentions of ‘Kerry Prawns’, ‘Seared wild Wicklow venison’ and ‘Clogher Head razor clams’. All of the dishes have a distinct Irish flair including Irish seafood chowder with chorizo and roast lamb served with minted peas and gravy. Fresh ingredients define the food at this restaurant – and while the dishes are refined – you can expect a big old heaping portion as well.
The upstairs cafe may be gone, but the restaurant has maintained its character. Shelves of old books and photographs showing days gone by of poetry readings and book signings all remind visitors of the history of the building. Be sure to make reservations in advance – and be prepared for incredible views over the Ha’Penny Bridge and River Liffey below.
Address: 40 Ormond Quay, 1, Ireland ()
Phone: (+ 353) 1 8727320
Photo Credit: SXC
