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Salamanca

The concept of tapas was new to Dublin when John Harvey opened this atmospheric, informal bar and Spanish restaurant in the heart of Dublin several years ago, and it immediately struck a chord with Dubliners.

The entrance is pleasant - past a bar with flowers on the counter - and welcoming staff show you straight to a simple marble-topped table. The menu - which is in Spanish with English explanations - is flexible enough to suit anything from a light lunch to a full dinner and plenty of choices: three tapas plates will make a generous lunch for two.

Spanish staples are generally well-handled: langoustines with serrano ham, squid in chilli butter and patatas bravas are all tasty and presentation is simple and traditional. A handy location, tasty food, delightful staff and good value make this place busy at peak times, so be prepared to wait.

The wine list includes a range of sherries by the glass, the traditional accompaniment for tapas, and their lovely frothy-topped mocha served in a tall glass is a great reviver.

Meals: Mon-Thu, 12 noon-11 pm, Fri & Sat to midnight. Closed Sun. MasterCard, Visa.

Directions:

Near Dublin Tourism.