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The Purty Kitchen

Established in 1728 - making it the second oldest pub in Dublin (after The Brazen Head) and the oldest in Dun Laoghaire - this attractive old place has seen some changes, but its essential character remains, with dark wooden floors, good lighting, large mirrors and a good buzz.

It's well set up for enjoyment of the bar food for which it has earned a fine reputation, with shiny dark wooden tables (a candle on each) and inviting menus which still have some old favourites like the famous Purty Seafood Chowder and traditional Mussels Mariniére.

But, although best known for seafood - and a wide range is offered, including Prawn and Crayfish Pil Pil, Caribbean style Crab Cakes and tender calamari and Pacific Rock Oysters. Head chef Jacqueline Foster has brought her American experiences to the kitchen: butcher's block selections include chargrilled fillet steak, North Star short ribs and Hereford Beef Burger. Lovely fresh food with a home-cooked flavour, presented attractively on different shaped plates, make this an unusually enjoyable informal dining experience.

A list of House Favourites also includes some dishes that have stood the test of (considerable) time, such as a traditional breakfast, home-made beef burgers and seafood quiche, all at reasonable prices.

A garden terrace offers a pleasing outdoor alternative in fine weather, and the Food & Wine Emporium next door specialises in artisan Irish foods. Restaurant D two sittings 7pm & 9pm, reservations advisable.

No reservations in bar but names taken when you arrive and you can wait at the bar.

*A new Purty Kitchen has now opened in Temple Bar (see entry).

A la carte menu available Mon-Fri 12-9.45, Sat-Sun, 12.30-9.45. Veg menu also available. Purty Kitchen Food & Wine Emporium open every day (pub hours). Toilets wheelchair accessible. House wine from about €16.50 (€4.50 per glass). Live music Tue & Fri evenings. Closed 25 Dec, Good Friday. Amex, Diners, MasterCard, Visa, Laser.

Directions:

On left approaching Dun Laoghaire from Dublin by the coast road.