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Bleu Bistro Moderne

A younger sister to Eamonn O'Reilly's excellent flagship restaurant One Pico (see entry), this modern bistro is now known generally as 'Bleu' or even 'Blue.'

Smartly laid tables are rather close together and hard surfaces make for a good bit of noise which adversely affects the dining ambience. But the food is based on carefully sourced quality ingredients, and pleasingly presented on plain white plates.

Although recent experience by the Guide suggests there may be inconsistency in the kitchen, the food is generally cooked with skill; dishes of smoked haddock, risotto of broad beans with poached egg and hollandaise, and pan roasted chicken with lasagne of butternut squash, morels and asparagus attracted particular praise on recent visits.

Portions may be on the small side, which can make value on the plate seem less than it looks on the menu, and more cheerful service would make people more inclined to return.

Long opening hours allow for a very nice little afternoon menu, which could make an enjoyable late lunch or early evening meal and there is an outdoor seating area for fine weather.

Good wine list, with a dozen or so wines by the glass.

Seats 60 (outdoor seating 14). Reservations advised. Air conditioning. Open all day Mon-Sat 9am-midnight, L 12-5, D 5-12, Sun - L 12-4, D 5-10; Set L 2/3 course about €21.50/25. Early D about €29 (5-7.30), Set D about €20, also á la carte L&D. House wine from about €22. Closed bank hols. Amex, MasterCard, Visa, Laser.

Directions:

At top of Dawson St. off St. Stephen's Green