The brown and beige colour scheme of Tribes may pay tribute to its earthy name, but the styling here is far more contemporary then ethnic, and the cooking very much French-style in its influences. A long narrow room is fitted with smart leather seats, wooden flooring, a few cosy banquettes and moody lighting, which sets a clubby theme by night.
Staff are cheerful and friendly with service, for the most part, efficient. Diners should find their whole dining experience is pleasingly visual, from the gorgeous salt and pepper sets to the red candle lights and imaginatively presented food; the functional metal bread basket and lacklustre bread is the only weak link in the chain.
This Dublin restaurants dishes are seasonal and feature tempting cheffy touches like pork with chargrilled apple and calvados sauce or roasted salmon with mascarpone and crab crushed potatoes.
Risotti are something of a house speciality and use imaginative ingredients like Jerusalem artichokes or cauliflower with Comte and pine nuts.
The wine list is adequate, and fairly priced, and the room is pleasant to linger in after dinner.
Early bird menus are understandingly popular with locals who enjoy the comfortable space and sheer quality and creativity of the cooking.
Seats 60 (outdoors, 10); children welcome; air conditioning; L Sun, 1-4pm, D Mon-Sun, 5.30-10pm; all night value menu 1/2/3 course €17.95/21.95/26.95. House wine €19; SC 10%. Closed 25-26 Dec, 1 Jan, Good Fri. Amex, MasterCard, Visa, Laser.
