Tuesday, May 1, 2012

 Le Plancha, Blackrock, Dublin
 
“Very promising new restaurant” 
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 30 March 2012
4
people found this review helpful
We waited awhile after Le Plancha opened before giving it a try, perhaps for the word of mouth encouragement that one hopes for before trying somewhere new. On my birthday we walked over and met my son and his girlfriend, and I'm happy to report that we had the most enjoyable evening. There were previous restaurants on the spot, but the new owners have done a great job in making the new place both intimate and atmospheric at the same time.
The Baked Cod Portuguese Style was so good that I had it again on our return visit although I might try the Steak รก la Plancha which my son gave the thumbs-up to the next time. The menu is relatively small, which I think is a good thing, and has a distinct Iberian flavour.
There is a special every night on the blackboard.
The wine list is very well chosen, and represents excellent value. We had an excellent white Rioja the first visit and a very tasty Portuguese red on the second. There is a nice buzz in the place, and it was very busy on the Thursday night which is a sign they are getting things right.
The hostess, Eimear, is both charming and efficient. She offered us a free tasting of a new dessert wine which they were trying out.
In summary, there are so few local restaurants like this in Ireland, the type of place where you can go out and have a nice meal at a reasonable cost and immediately start thinking of your next visit.
You can lose yourself in the ambiance though, and as you gaze out the window you almost think you will see the Spanish or Portuguese coastline, alas it is only Newtown Park road! Give this place a go, I don't think you will be disappointed.
Visited February 2012

Thursday, February 2, 2012

Short break in lovely Druids Glen

Visited Druids Glen for the first time just for a short stay and was very pleased with the whole experience. It was very quiet, only a few guests on a Tuesday night, but that suited us fine. (I believe the weekends get booked out well ahead of time.) We received a warm welcome and that set the tone for the exceptional friendliness of all the staff.

Ken and Anthony in the bar went out of their way for us. We ate in the bar because the dining room was so quiet that we decided there would be more atmosphere in the smaller venue. The food was fine, and the orange scones we had with afternoon tea were out of this world.

Our room was lovely, with a nice view over the golf course and beyond. The walks around the hotel are great. As it is only a short drive, just the ticket for a break from the manic pace of Dublin city!

Room Tip: Room 211 is perfect.