Tucked away in a tiny basement near the Lincolns Inn entrance to Trinity College, you’ll find this unusual bistro offering modest French dining served with a personal touch.
Steep cast iron steps lead promisingly down to a welcoming bright red door and, as you step through into this Dublin restaurants cosy interior, you could be mistaken for thinking you have entered a small Parisian neighbourhood restaurant, full of character and chic bistro charm.
Deep moody tones of red and purple create a snug bohemian atmosphere and a smart darkwood panelled wine bar and bentwood chairs provide a little Parisian ‘arrondissement’ allure.
A warmly informal tone is set by a friendly duo team of waiter and chef, who welcome guests to choose from a modest menu chalked onto a large blackboard.
Both lunch and dinner menus change daily, offering a handful of enticing French starters, mains and desserts which focus on bold flavours in dishes that will satisfy any appetite: simple rustic cooking at its best.
Begin, perhaps, with a soup or terrine, followed by a ragout of rabbit or pan fried fillet of cod and a well-made fruit compote for dessert.
Expect bold, no frills cooking in classic French style, and a modest wine list that confidently offers only French wines, all by the glass and bottle, including a rosé and a couple of champagnes.
The Blackboard Bistro is run by people who take their food, wine and service seriously, and – by offering delicious, modest food in charming surroundings, served with the personal touch that only a small restaurant can deliver - has raised the bar for affordable city dining.
Just the place for anyone who is tired of complicated, over-presented food, and longs for simple dishes with real flavour.
L & D Tue–Sat 12.30-2.30 & 5.30-9.30pm. Set 2/3 course D €25/29 Tue-Thu 5.30-9.30 & Fri/Sat 5.30-7pm, also la carte L & D. House wine from €24. SC 12.5% on groups 8+. Broadband wi/fi (free). Closed Sun, Mon, 25-30 Dec. MasterCard, Visa, Laser
