Brunch at Cocu
Nutrition and locally sourced ingredients are ever-present in Cocu’s approach to food and the new weekend brunch menu at the Chatham Street eatery features a healthy twist on a great selection of traditional favourites. The Shakshuka poached eggs with avocados, wilted spinach and chili flakes pack a seriously nutritious punch, while those who fancy something sweeter are also well catered for. Cocu’s French Toast comes replete with sautéed bananas, berries, yoghurt and crushed nuts, while bevvies include such homegrown delights as Kombucha from SynerChi, Green Beards cold pressed juices and Cloudpicker’s locally roasted coffee. www.cocu.ie
Winter Warmers at The Morrison
As the temperature drops, the Morrison Hotel offers a great Liffeyside vantage point to soak up the atmosphere and take in the seasonal city lights. The menu is worth lingering over too, with meaty bar bites cooked to order in the Josper charcoal grill, a special way of cooking which preserves natural flavour and taste. New winter offerings include a Wagyu Beef Burger with a helping of shoestring fries, while our eye was drawn to the moist, flakey Josper Grilled Halibut with a lemon butter sauce. www.morrisonhotel.ie
Apple Thins From The Lismore Food Company
Dark chocolate apple crisp thins, the latest addition to the Lismore Food Company’s growing selection of artisanal treats, are so attractively presented it’s almost a shame to crack open the box. Needs must however; and the treasures within are worth it. The Lismore based trio has once again worked some special culinary magic, and as with the biscuits that have come before them, the tart, crisp apple thins prove decidedly more-ish. Just as well it’s the season for sharing. Available at Nolans Clontarf and online at www.thelismorefoodcompany.com
Morilles Bistro
The city centre can feel a little crowded at this time of year, making December a great opportunity to check out what’s on offer slightly further afield. Located above the Yellow House in Rathfarnham, Morilles Bistro specializes in classic French cooking with an Irish twist. Menu highlights from Chef Nicholas Courtney include herb-crusted cannon of Curragh lamb and a very tasty Clonakilty black pudding tarte tatin with pear and star anise chutney. On Monday December 19th the bistro hosts a special performance from acclaimed soprano Emer Barry and her group Affiniti. Tickets: €59.95 include a six-course meal. www.morillesbistro.ie
Listoke Gin School
The country’s first Gin School was recently launched at Listoke Estate outside Drogheda, offering fans of the botanical elixir an opportunity to make their own. The experience begins with an opportunity to learn more about the different flavour profiles, before distilling a bottle of gin in a miniature still using quality botanicals from the estate garden. Seal the bottle, personalize the label and hey presto! Bespoke gin. Located in the recently renovated 200-year-old stable buildings, the three-hour experience includes refreshments, access to state of the art facilities and a tour of the distillery. www.listokedistillery.ie/gin-school
Words: Martina Murray
