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Café Paradiso

Denis Cotter and Bridget Healy's ground-breaking vegetarian restaurant produces such exciting mainstream cooking that even the most committed of carnivores admit to relishing every mouthful and it attracts devotees from all over Ireland - and beyond.

House specialities that people are happy to cross the country for include delicious deep-fried courgette flowers with a fresh goats cheese & pinenut stuffing, olive & caper aoili and basil courgettes, which is a brilliant example of the cooking style at this colourful little restaurant.

It's a modest, slightly bohemian place with a busy atmosphere and, although it may have a persistently well-worn look these days there is plenty to compensate for any downside in the surroundings and staff, under the direction of Bridget Healy, are not only friendly and helpful but obviously enthusiastic about their work.

Seasonal menus based on the best organic produce available are topped up by daily specials, which might include potato gnocchi or a vegetable risotto, followed by a seasonal dessert.

A well-priced global wine list features an exceptional choice in New Zealand wines (from Bridget's home country) and a number of organic wines; carafes of New Zealand wines represent quality at a fair price.

The cooking is never less than stunning - and significantly, in this era of "cheffy" food and big egos, the creator of this wonderful food describes himself simply as "owner cook"; many of Denis Cotter's creations are featured in his acclaimed books: Café Paradiso Cookbook and Café Paradiso Seasons.

Café Paradiso may be small and a little tired around the edges, but it still packs a mighty punch.

*Paradiso Rooms, three rooms are available over the restaurant for dinner guests, at a room rate of about €160.

Cafe Paradiso : Even the most committed carnivores relish every mouthful at Denis Cotter and Bridget HealyÂ’s ground-breaking vegetarian restaurant, which has earned a national reputation for exciting mainstream cooking and great service. It's a lively place, with a busy atmosphere and staff who are not only friendly and helpful but obviously enthusiastic about their work. House specialities that people cross the country for include a delicious beetroot mousse with orange scented yoghurt, rocket and fennel crispbread which is a brilliant example of the cooking style at this colourful little restaurant. A well-priced global wine list features an exceptional choice in New Zealand wines (from BridgetÂ’s home country) and a number of organic wines, available by the glass. Seats 45 (+outdoor seating, 10). L & D Tue-Sat. Closed Sun, Mon, Christmas week.*At the time of going to press, accommodation is due to open shortly, above the restaurant. Seats 45 (outdoor seating, 6). Toilets wheelchair accessible. L Tue-Sat, 12-3, D Tue-Sat 6.30-10.30. A la carte. House wines from €22. Service discretionary. Closed Sun, Mon, Christmas week. Amex, MasterCard, Visa, Laser.

Directions:

On Western Road, opposite Jurys Hotel.