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Hugo's

A new Dublin sister for Gina Murphy and Padraig McLoughlin's impressive bar and restaurant in Tullamore, The Wolftrap (see entry), this recently opened wine bar and restaurant is easily recognised by its bright turquoise façade.

The interior is more restrained but atmospheric, with rich wallpaper and plenty of mirrors and wine bottles on display; a downstairs area is similarl in style and has additional tables, with less formal seating towards the front. Hugo's has already become popular with style-conscious Dubliners and can be a busy place in the evenings, making for a convivial atmosphere - and friendly staff contribute to this ambience.

As would be expected the wine list is extensive and well balanced between classics and more unusual offerings, with bottles ranging in price from €20 to €300; a larger selection of wines by the glass would be welcome, although those that are available are a good representation of the range available.

A varied menu incudes some authentically French dishes such as frogs legs and moules frites, but the appeal of Hugo's is mainly as a wine bar, and the menu includes plenty of small/starter dishes that would be ideal if you wanted to nibble at some thing while just visiting for a few glasses of wine. Service may be slighty disorganised but staff are friendly.

Seats 70 (private room, 20); not suitable for children before 9pm; not suitable for wheelchairs, air conditioning; open noon-11pm daily (from 11am Sun); L 12-5pm (to 4pm Sat/Sun); D 5-11pm; early D 15% discount on food 5-7pm Mon-Thurs, a la carte. Closed 25-27 Dec, Good Fri, 1 Jan. Amex, MasterCard, Visa, Laser.

Directions:

Just off the Baggot Street corner of St. Stephen's Green