Wine lovers should make a beeline for Piglet Wine Bar, an authentic osteria located down the quieter end of Temple Bar. The small premises, complete with outdoor tables that open onto lovely Cow's Lane, is run by Italian wine importer, Enrico Fantasia, and front-of-house stalwart, Frenchman Thibaud Harang (ex-Pichet)
Bringing more than a little continental flair to this pedestrianised street, the savvy pair have created an atmospheric spot that’s winning critical acclaim for its charming mix of great, affordable wine, relaxed service from knowledgeable staff and, simple, tasty food. After one visit you’ll be vowing to make this a regular hangout.
Primarily a wine bar, serving an excellent and affordable selection of mostly European, organic wines, there has been love poured into the food offering too.
Lunch offers both small and large plates. You may find beef tartare with cured egg yolks, cornichons, wasabi mayo with focaccia or a large plate of miso glazed aubergine with katsuobushi, sesame, spring onions and couscous.
Dinner offerings range from halibut with quinoa to a sharing plate of dry-aged cote de boeuf.
Piglet classic tiramisu, with a strong espresso, is the perfect way to end a meal here.
Take wine advice from the staff, who will let you sample a wine, thanks to the Corovin system, before you commit. There’s lots to enjoy, include a short selection by the glass (which, incidentally, are classic Riedel tasting glasses) should you wish to hop around the wine list.
While PIglet won’t win any interior design accolades, the mismatched décor, spread over a mezzanine, bar, small terrace and seating area, blends into the background as you’re lulled by the upbeat, lively buzz, especially on weekends when musicians perform.
Low-key, honest and accessible, this no-nonsense establishment is a gem and a welcome breath of fresh air in the capital.
