Book early for these new spots, opening just in time for the festive season, says Ciara McQuillan
THE HOXTON
THE VIBE The Hoxton opens its first Irish outpost in the former Central Hotel on Exchequer Street. The restored Victorian building has been given a Hoxton-style makeover – homely but modern, with subtle nods to the city’s history, from Viking ruins to classic pub references. By day, it’s buzzing with the laptop and latte crowd, by night, the mood shifts to low lighting, cocktails and music.
WHAT TO EXPECT Cantina Valentina, a Peruvian-inspired restaurant, will serve ceviche, stews, and pisco-laced cocktails. Dollars is the resident sandwich shop, doubling as a natural wine bar after dark, while the much-loved Library Bar makes a comeback, promising Guinness and cheese toasties by the fire.
NEED TO KNOW The Hoxton also launches its first-ever nightlife venue, with Groundwork club in the basement. The Hoxton, 1-5 Exchequer Street, Dublin 2; www.thehoxton.com/dublin. @thehoxtonhotel
DÍON
THE VIBE At Díon, Dublin’s newest rooftop dining destination perched high above Dame Street, the city skyline is as much a part of the ambience as the bold interior. Inside, the look channels 1970s retro glamour, with plush textures, gleaming finishes and a soft golden glow. Stylish without being showy, for a business lunch, date night, or a glamorous festive catch up with friends, Díon promises to deliver.
WHAT TO EXPECT The all-day menu puts a modern spin on Irish cuisine, combining local produce with international flavours. Expect starters like shrimp lollipops, Irish ham and gouda croquettes, and salt and vinegar tempura mushrooms, alongside elegant plates such as Aberdeen Angus carpaccio, truffle chicken vol-au-vents, and Díon’s signature tempura prawns.
NEED TO KNOW Díon occupies the top floor of the old Central Bank and was designed by the award-winning Henry J Lyons studio with interiors by iCrave, the team behind the Sphere in Las Vegas. Díon, Central Plaza, Dublin 2; www.diondublin.ie. @dion.restaurant.dublin
THE IVY ASIA
THE VIBE A place to see and be seen, The Ivy Asia is as much about the spectacle as the food. The Dawson Street restaurant will introduce Dublin to its signature world of high-gloss opulence, with an interior that features bold colours, a flurry of foliage, and dramatic mood lighting.
WHAT TO EXPECT The kitchen takes a pan-Asian approach, with sushi and sashimi made for sharing, and lavish mains designed to impress. Pair it all with a creative cocktail, followed by a sharing dessert, and you have an experience high on style with plenty of theatrical touches. At The Ivy Asia, maximalist glamour is the signature style.
NEED TO KNOW Opening this month, Dublin is The Ivy Asia’s first restaurant beyond the UK. The buzz has been building for months, and with the brand’s reputation for drawing a crowd, tables here will be some of the most in demand in the city. The Ivy Asia, 9-12, Dawson Street, Dublin 2; www.theivyasia.com. @theivyasia
ASHTON’S
THE VIBE Since the reopening of Ashton’s in Clonskeagh, more than a few customers have made the comparison with London pub, The Devonshire. Similarities between the two include the handwritten menus, the décor, and, of course, the menu – but imitation is, as they say, the highest form of flattery …
WHAT TO EXPECT The menu includes seafood starters and hearty cuts from the grill, showcasing the best of Irish ingredients with a contemporary touch. Expect Flaggy Shore and Kelly’s native oysters, white crab salad, rare-breed pork chop, monkfish with grelot onions, and premium cuts of beef, all served with rich, house-made sauces. Sunday lunch offers a reduced choice but with the option of the all-important roast beef with all the trimmings.
NEED TO KNOW Ashton’s has a dry-ageing room. There are also private dining rooms for group bookings. Ashton’s, Clonskeagh Road, Dublin 6; www.ashtons.ie. @ashtons_clonskeagh
GLORIA OSTERIA
THE VIBE Think 1970s Milanese glamour meets old-world Dublin – a lavish Italian palazzo in a restored 19th-century bank, dripping in scarlet chandeliers and Tuscan timber.
WHAT TO EXPECT Under head chef Davide Migallo, the menu straddles the line between comfort and spectacle. Irish produce and specialist Italian imports meet in plates like truffle-laced spaghettone, Guinnessbraised ossobucco, and the already famous Lemon Pie, a dessert taller than decency should allow. Expect big flavours, extra-large portions, and a dramatic flourish with every dish.
NEED TO KNOW Dublin is the third city to host Gloria Osteria, following in the footsteps of Milan and Barcelona. Reservations will be gold dust, so plan ahead for festive season bookings. Gloria Osteria, 41 Westmoreland Street, Dublin 2; www.gloria-osteria.com. @gloriaosteria.dublin
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