Just off South Mall, this little restaurant feels like an outpost of France - the menu at the entrance will draw you in, and you'll be glad you noticed it.
It's run by Patrick and Soizic Kiely - both formerly of Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud but, although that says a lot about the key standards, this is far more reminiscent of family-run restaurants in France.
There's nothing flash about the quiet style of this restaurant: a small reception area is cleverly arranged to make three compact seating areas with a bar, fresh flowers and stylish cushions; the welcome is cordial without being effusive, and the team under Soizic's guidance go about their business with quiet competence.
The long, narrow, high-ceilinged room, formerly a Turkish bath, is a restrained, modern white space, with comfortable subdued lighting and low key music.
This Cork restaurants menu is not overlong, but changes daily to accommodate the day's market; there is usually a seafood platter, which varies and may contain 5 or so elements, each treated differently and with appropriate sauces/garnishes, arranged to please the eye as well as the palate.
Outstanding dishes may include a 'crab sandwich' starter, of spanking fresh crab with remoulade sauce, layered in three tiers with toasted brioche & fresh dill. Presentation is stylish, and great attention is given to the marriage of complementary flavours - a tiny pink lamb rack, for example, comes with rosemary and black olive tapenade - and careful seasoning.
To finish, there may be upbeat classic seasonal desserts and a good French & Irish cheese selection, and lovely coffee.
The wine list is not long but very well chosen and includes some real finds, including the house wines.
Terrific food and good value: this is one of the hidden treasures you'd like to keep a secret lest it become too popular.
Seats 30. L Sun only 12.30-3pm; D Tue-Sat, 6-9.30pm. Set Sun L €32.50. Value D, 2/3 course: €27.50/29.50, Tue-Fri 6-9.30 & Sat 6-7pm; Set 2/3 course D €38.50/45; Also à la carte. House wine €26. SC 10% on groups 6+. Children welcome before 7pm. Closed Sun D, Mon (except bank hols); 1 week in March & August. Amex, Diners, MasterCard, Visa, Laser.
