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Floridita

Located in the Irish Life Mall, probably the least likely spot for an exotic Cuban restaurant, Floridita is the fifth of the successful Floridita chains with branches in London, Madrid, Moscow and Cuba.

Marketed as a bar and music venue as well as a restaurant, the first floor dining room features a giant tilted mirror which reflects the live bands from downstairs to the restaurant above. The décor evokes some of the 1950s style of Cuba, and the atmosphere reflects that of high octane Celtic Cubs at play.

The traditional cocktail of choice is the mojito criollo made with churned fresh mint, lime juice and sugar, although there are plenty of other cocktails on offer.

Traditional Cuban cuisine tends to reflect its peasant history so the menu borrows from further afield with South American and Spanish influences; Cuban dishes to try include deep fried tostones (plantains pounded flat and deep fried) and moros y christanos (Moors and Christians) a mix of black beans and rice.

A great venue for a celebration especially when visiting Cuban bands are playing.

Seats 100. Average starter €9.60, average main course €20 and average dessert €7. House wines from €26; by the glass from €6.50; cocktails from €9. SC 12.5% added to all bills. Open L Mon- Fri 12 to 3, D Mon Fri 5 to 9.30, Sat 5 to 10.30. Closed Sunday. Amex, MasterCard, Visa, Laser.

Directions:

In the Irish Life Mall off Abbey Street.