Putting our social lives on pause unquestionably heightened our appreciation for dining out. As June 29 approaches, there is an air of fervent anticipation over the opening of some of our beloved restaurants. 

While the toll of lockdown has been enormous, taking many to the brink of extinction, restaurants all over the country have rallied and risen to immense challenges and now face more, as they endeavour to open doors to patrons safely. Supporting them could be the difference between survival and closure.

While many establishments will continue to offer their ‘dine in at home’ option, here are some suggestions you can get dressed up for: remember most restaurants will operate a strict booking system so be sure to reserve online or call ahead … and if you have booked, for God’s sake, don’t let them down! Show up!

Kerala Kitchen

On Dublin’s St Stephens Green, the iconic landmark that is The Shelbourne Hotel will re-open on Monday July 29 for overnight guests and diners. In The Saddle Room, expect classics such as Fillet of Beef Carpaccio with Celeriac Remoulade or Seared Atlantic Salmon with Wasabi. Bookings at www.theshelbourne.com.

Derry and Sallyanne Clarke’s L’Ecrivain will reopen for dinner on June 30 following their well-earned hiatus. L’Ecrivain was due to close permanently but much to the delight of regulars, the restaurant will now remain open until December. www.lecrivain.com

In West Dublin, The Anglers Rest on the picturesque Strawberry Beds will reopen for all-day dining from June 29. Their famous Fish and Chips will be on the menu along with seafood, steaks and vegetarian dishes https://theanglersrest.ie/

For casual dining and Indian food devotees, Kerala Kitchen has announced a new Stoneybatter location, with opening planned for mid-July and the locals are already in a tizzy hearing this exciting news. The Masala Fries have something of a cult following and for good reason www.keralakitchen.ie

Marco Pierre White’s Dawson Street Steakhouse

The Blind Pig Speakeasy and Prohibition Bar on Suffolk Street reopens on June 29 with an impressive cocktail list and a varied food menu www.theblindpig.ie and for those in need of a sushi fix, Yamamori opens from June 2. www.yamamori.ie

In Donnybrook, Mulberry Gardens will continue to offer its click and collect service but dining in will also be available from Wednesday July 1. www.mulberrygarden.ie

Just around the corner, Marco Pierre White’s Courtyard and Grill will reopen from Friday July 3 with the Dawson Street Steakhouse opening its doors on June 29. You can be assured that tables on the terrace will be in high demand. www.marcopierrewhite.ie

Lignum

Elsewhere in the country, the revered Lignum Restaurant in Co Galway reopens on July 9, with a six-course tasting menu at €75 or an eight-course option at €95. Bookings at www.lignum.ie.

Chef JP McMahon has announced that both Tartare and Cava Bodega restaurants will reopen next week amid rumours of a new Ramen Bar to join the Galway chefs’ string of popular venues in the near future.  www.eatgalway.ie

Buon Apetito!