Appropriately located in the former catering centre of the old Ebrington military barracks, brothers David and Shaun Mc Elhone brought a treat of a new dining and socialising destination to Derry when they opened Stitch and Weave in the spring of 2024. Brilliantly situated on historic Ebrington Square, right beside the Peace Bridge and with panoramic views of the the bridge and walled city across the River Foyle, it's a thoughtfully re-purposed listed building with all of the character, charm and atmosphere that comes with the territory. The decor, like the name, pays homage to the Maiden City's shirt-making and linen-weaving past and - designed to make the most of every inch as it is not a huge building - it makes a warmly welcoming contemporary setting to be enjoyed by all age groups.
A good place to start is the ground floor, at the doors beside the Peace Bridge, where you can park a bicycle in the entrance alleyway and even bring a four-legged friend into the back of the semi open courtyard garden and bar area with its retractable roof for sunny days, and dog water bowls provided. Inside, a luxurious drinking area with mood lighting has various seating options (even a snug with a fire), all cared for by attentive staff and with live music creating a great atmosphere on weekend evenings. Daytime meals and snacks are served here from the bar menu, and it's also a place to enjoy pre-dinner cocktails and drinks.
Above is the restaurant, with its own entrance from Ebrington Square, or via the lift from below. The first room has a peaceful snug feeling, with comfortable seating. It adjoins an open plan kitchen area on one side and then a further dining area, which has views over the Foyle and the Guildhall - and, above this again, the top floor is used for private events. Old Singer sewing machines and wall prints illustrating the city's shirt-making past are points of interest in the dining room and the rich colours are softened with excellent lighting, creating a really pleasant place to relax and enjoy some deliciously flavoursome cooking with a Mediterranean twist.
You'll find plenty of crowd pleasers on offer, ranging from starters like a classic Romaine and kale styled Caesar Salad (with fresh flavours and all the crispy additions that make it so moreish) or Potted crab with juicy prawns and toasted sourdough, or a sharing Charcuterie board. Main meals cover a wide range, from Sirloin steaks to the Stitch and Weave House Stack (fried chicken or beef) with Champ, Chorizo cream and shoe string onions, or Grilled Halloumi, along with daily specials such as Sea bass - a whole fish filleted and served with a hearty stew of chickpeas. potatoes and squashed tomatoes. Sides are available but portions are generous so the plated dishes are ample. Service is commendable and very sociable, with knowledgeable staff happy to help and the experienced General Manager,,Jason Foody (formerly of Killeavy Castle), making sure that everything runs smoothly.
Sweet temptations are again wide ranging, including favourites like Eton Mess, Waffles with hot fudge sauce and Ice-cream and a Vegan chocolate tart all vying for choice - as does a Cheesecake of the day, and a light and delicate Whiskey Crème brulée that's just enough to finish on a sweet note.
With a choice of short and long wine lists, some 11 draught choices from the bar and also plenty of alcohol free options, the drinks offering is wide and the Menu ticks all the meal options too, so every one will be happy.
A place for everyone, with thoughtful design of multiple areas its greatest strength, Stitch & Weave is a stand out venue. Tailored to please all comers, the entire offering is carefully thought out and very relaxing. And it's keenly priced too - you will want to return.
