The team behind the original and much-loved Bang Café have reunited a few doors down to head up Il Segreto. Originally opened as an upmarket Italian, the Bang team have repositioned it, introducing their signature modern European cuisine with a brand new menu.
It’s hard to believe the cosy and chic interior was once the office of an auctioneer. Transformed with real taste it’s now a stylish space that’s as bright and pleasant at lunchtime as it is cosy and intimate by night. Over two levels you’ll find painted wood panelling, comfy sofas, generous tables and a glamorous cocktail bar. Gentle interior lighting and two well-appointed terraces make it a great year round dining destination.
Diners enter Il Segreto through a courtyard that makes a nice spot to enjoy a pre-dinner drink, with cocktails a real speciality. By night the restaurant comes alive, and the buzzy atmosphere make it instantly welcoming.
Lorcan Cribben’s menu features plenty of seasonal choice, including well-thought out salads, perhaps made with spiced duck, poached pears, watercress and sherry vinaigrette or avocado and goats cheese with chardonnay dressing.
A risotto of native Irish lobster with wild asparagus is typical of the exciting offerings ,although it’s surprising to find that asparagus may be served when it is out of season. There are lots of interesting seafood dishes as well as tasty choices like roast chump and braised shoulder of Connemara Hill lamb with roasted root vegetables and rosemary jus.
This Dublin restaurants dessert menu is refreshingly different, with temptations like white chocolate parfait with raspberries or comforting sticky toffee pudding with banana ice cream and caramel sauce.
In the Guide’s experience Lorcan Cribben’s fine cooking can be let down by uneven service - and diners offered a table outside need to be aware that the beautiful terrace can become smoky late in the evening.
All round, however, you can expect a reliable and lively dining experience in Il Segreto, and it is great to see the Bang Café team back in action together.
Seats 80 (+ 50 on outdoor terrace). Unsuitable for children under 8 yrs or after 8.30pm. Open L&D Tue-Sat 12.30-10.30pm, D Sun 5.30-10pm. 2 course value L €18.50, Tue-Sat 12.30-3pm; 2/3 course Value D €19.50/24.50 Mon-Sat to 7.30pm. House wine €24.50. Closed L Sun, D Mon. Amex, MasterCard, Visa, Laser.
