Words: Hannah Lemass
Images: Instagram
It’s March, my little honeys, and I’ve got a selection of delightful food and drink spots for you to explore this month. Some are brand new, some are offering exciting specials, and others are simply perfect for the season. Whatever the reason they’ve made the list, they’re all worth a visit if you’re looking for inspiration on where to go next, whether it’s this month or any time you fancy.
Where: 1-5 Green St, Rotunda
Why: It’s probably the best cocktail bar in the city, but if you need even more reason to go, let it be this. On Sundays from 2-5pm each week, they’re bringing back an old favourite: The Bloody Monk, their poitín-based twist on the Bloody Mary. You can get two Bloody Monks and half a dozen oysters for €35, a good deal on a perfect pairing. 1661 is the ideal place to celebrate Ireland this month with their dedication to using the best of local spirits including their own Bán PoitIn which features in many of the drinks including the Bloody Monk.
Where: Goldenbridge Estate, Inchicore
Why: This is a really fun and unique place to spend some time with your mates and sip your way through the entire Rascals lineup. The pizzas are delicious too, and this month they have a special worth checking out: The Dogfather, a Brazilian hot dog-inspired masterpiece complete with frankfurter pieces, mashed potato, and little potato chip sticks. How often do you get to try something so utterly unique?
Where: 28 Francis St
Why: I don’t have much of a sweet tooth. So tell me, why do I keep finding myself making out-of-the-way journeys to Rumi just to get my hands on their pastries? You have to try the raspberry one. The swirly little sticky beauties keep me up at night. Taste it and tell me it doesn’t taste like spun gold. And they have the savoury side covered too, with the likes of börek and poğaça, feta-filled parcels of perfection. Top it off with the hot beverage of your choice plus a complimentary Turkish delight and it’s simply the weekend coffee date of dreams.
Where: Rath Great, Co. Dublin
Why: We were blown away on a recent visit here, everything is fresh, delicious, and served by a team with an immense passion for what they do. They have a new menu for March and April that you have to check out, including a broccoli macha taco that will blow your mind. How can broccoli taste so good? There isn’t a bad thing on the menu, and they even have a few ‘secret’ items, iykyk. And make sure you get some agua fresca to wash it all down.
Where: 42 Drury St
Why: Mani has a glorious outdoor dining setup on the most vibey street in town, Drury Street. As soon as a whiff of sun starts to permeate the clouds, the urge to order an Aperol Spritz and plant oneself in this alfresco haven is too immense to resist. They are currently featuring a very special slice in collaboration with Ryan from Grá Pizza for Paddy’s Day. It is a very Irish cheese & onion crisp inspired slice featuring Ballymakenny potatoes, Knockanore farmhouse cheese, roast onion purée, and fermented leek powder.
Where: 19A Kevin St
Why: They’re back, baby! Owners Gwen and Ken rocked the Dublin foodie scene when they closed up shop last year, but thankfully, they’ve made a glorious return. This tiny gem was notoriously elusive due to its limited hours, which, to be fair, was all part of the fun. They still have the same vibe and approach to dining as before, with handwritten paper menus and their intimate dining room, but now you can make a lunchtime booking over the phone, which will make things a bit easier for eager diners to get into this legendary spot.
Where: 147 Parnell St
Why: If you’ve heard the hype around Russell Street Bakery, or maybe you’re already die-hard fan, then you’ll be thrilled to learn that you now have double the opportunity to get a taste of their famous New York rolls and their full lineup of other famously tasty treats. The team has opened a second location on Parnell Street just in time for springtime coffee and pastry-fuelled hot girl walks around town.
Where: 1 Windsor Terrace
Why: A new opening brought to us by the three legends behind Uno Mas and Etto. Paul McNamara, who was chef and owner at Locks (which previously stood where Lena is today), along with culinary power couple Liz Mathews and Simon Barrett, make up the trio we have to thank for this place. There’s huge hype around Lena and for good reason. Its sleek, contemporary dining with neighbourhood charm. Slightly out the city centre is the perfect spot to escape to if you find the paddy’s buzz in town a little overstimulating at the moment.