In an imaginatively renovated Georgian townhouse just off St Stephen's Green, this was the first of Erik and Michelle Robson's 'series' of Ely wine bar/ cafés; it first opened in 1999 and, since then, they have built on their commitment to offer some of the greatest and most interesting wines from around the world - earning an unrivalled reputation for their unique list and, especially, for the quality and range of wines offered by the glass.
And the exceptional wine offering is backed up by other specialities including a list of premium beers; on the food side, organic produce, notably pork, beef and lamb from the family farm in County Clare, is a special feature - and you will not only find premium cuts, but also products like home-made sausages and mince, which make all the difference to simple dishes like sausages and mash (from which a euro of every order goes to Barnardos) or beefburgers.
Two much bigger sister establishments, 'ely bar & brasserie IFSC' and 'ely gastropub', opened in the IFSC and on Hanover Quay in 2006 and 2007 respectively (see entries). Each has its own personality (and following) but all share the core values of commitment to an exceptional and constantly-evolving wine offering, with an unrivalled selection offered by the glass - and to quality food.
Seats 80; children welcome before 7pm (high chair, children's menu); free broadband wi/fi. Open Mon-Sat 12 noon-12.30 am. Food served Mon-Sat 12-10.30pm (to 11pm Fri/Sat). Set 3 course D €30. Bar open to midnight. Wines from €20. SC 12.5% on groups of 6+. Closed Sun, Christmas week, bank hols. Amex, Diners, MasterCard, Visa, Laser.
