Looking for somewhere nice and local to take someone for lunch today, we happened upon the Phoenix Park Hotel Cafe. I must admit, I would never have previously considered 'wining & dining' anyone around the Park Gate area. Despite the implied grandeur of the association with the Phoenix Park gate, this area has never quite fulfilled it's potential in the style stakes (or any other stakes really, let's face it...). But with the facelift of the Ashling Hotel, and the general gentrification of the Stoneybatter area, the only thing surer than death and taxes, is the gathering of new eateries around the area.
It looks like the cafe has been done up in recent times, with a beautiful light-filled glass ceiling and a lovely big window seat you could probably fit about six people on.
Lunch is a bargain. €7 each. I got a toasted brie, bacon & chicken sandwich, with a truck-full of chips, and, - the cuteness - a little mini shot of tomato soup for dipping. My lunch date got a Thai red curry. They were both immense and delicious.
We had two servers, one that was pretty keen on getting outa the joint (which he did fairly lively), and the second dude who was full of the joys of spring. I guess if I was nearing the end of my shift, I'd be pretty keen on not being keen too, so will let them away with that.
All in all, it's cracking value for a nice setting and great food. read more