Donal and Teresa Cooper (formerly of the excellent Brulées in Limerick) are doing a great job here, in Belfast’s most exciting cultural quarter right beside the MAC (Metropolitan Arts Centre).
Cleanlined and smart, Salt Bistro may not stand out from its louder neighbours but its quiet tone is aesthetically pleasing and, with outside tables set up welcomingly - and protected from the elements by St Anne’s Square’s iconic white colonnade - it is an inviting destination.
Inside, large windows in the high celinged room allow a view of the square, and some old fashioned china (particularly the dainty coffee cups) on the nicely laid tables gives a welcome break from the relentless trend of plain white ware.
Friendly and efficient staff are quick to deal with arriving customers and, while menus may not give to much away - just a reference to 'local provenance food' - try one meal here and you're sure to be back for more.
Some dishes may sound similar to many other menus - a starter of goats cheese with cherry tomatoes and red onion bruschetta, for example, or a sirloin steak with chips, baked flat mushrooms and watercress salad - and It's certainly predictable enough sounding food on the face of it. But it's the cooking that makes a difference - you can take the fine dining out of the menu and the style, but you can't take the classical training out of the cook.
Desserts include delicious variations on old favourites and plenty of chocolate - chocolate peanut butter brownies, for example - and there may be a house variation on Eton mess in summer. Farmhouse cheeses are offered too, and nicely served with frozen grapes and quince.
As would be expected from this talented team, smart service is matched by an interesting and well priced wine list - and good value overall.
One to try.
