Bite

An unusual and much-hyped fish and chips and cocktails joint, this funky little South Frederick Street venue looks welcoming from the outside and you’ll be greeted warmly by charming staff.

Inside, the awkwardly shaped restaurant, split into three rooms, has been cheaply decorated and lacks any real panache, though the large terrace is an attraction for smokers and outdoor dining in the middle of town.

The short menu offers a gourmet twist on this fast food favourite and there are lots of tempting sides to help customise your order. Complimentary chilli popcorn is a nice touch as you order and there are just four starters, probably including zingy prawns pil pil.

This Dublin restaurants mains include hake in vodka and beer batter, delicious seared yellow fin tuna with zesty octo vinaigrette and less successful dishes like braised monkfish with mussels. With six kinds of fries, including truffle and parmesan, seven side dishes and a choice of interesting sauces like chermoula or lime wasabi mayo you may hit upon a winning food combination.

A short dessert menu offers just three choices including popping candy icecream, or for those who like to end their meal on a savoury note, there’s a Sheridans cheese plate.

In the Guide’s experience the cooking can be inconsistent but ingredients are well sourced and there is some good value to be had, especially on the ‘pre-gig’ menu. And , as well as a short wine list, the very creative cocktail list includes some keenly priced originals, alongside beer and cider.

Service is warm and enthusiastic, though the relaxed vibe sometimes extends to the staff.