A self-styled cross between Parisian chic and New York cool, the atmospheric outdoor terrace of this fashionable restaurant on the ground floor of the Westbury Hotel is a prime people-watching spot that’s reminiscent of a Parisian brasserie, while the slick white metro tiles, zinc bar and black leather banquette seating running along one wall give the interior a smart, sophisticated vibe.
Balfes offers a very generous cut above the usual hotel fare. In fact, you might never even suspect that it’s a hotel restaurant until the bill comes with a line for your room number. The menu runs from homemade breakfast pastries right through to lunch, dinnertime and cocktails, with an appealing brunch menu available at weekends.
There’s a strong focus on Irish ingredients, especially seafood and beef, and the menu is well thought out. Even something as simple as a roast vegetable open sandwich is served with Toonsbridge mozzarella and the vegetables get a turn on the Josper grill, giving them a smoky depth of flavour.
Especially worth looking out for is the €15 lunch special that changes every day, ranging from half a roast chicken with stuffing, roast carrots and parsnips and home-cut chips at weekends to a braised beef short rib with bourguignon sauce on a Thursday, perhaps, or a duck confit on a Wednesday. For dessert, the mixed berries with Champagne sabayon is a stunner and is not to be missed.
But if you think that this is a hidden gem because of it’s tucked-away location and that you’ll have the place to yourself, think again. Word is definitely out and tables are much in demand, so reservations at the weekend are a good idea when the place attracts a well-heeled Grafton Street shopping crowd and friends meeting up for a glass of wine and a bite to eat.
A stylish room plus good food - and a great location - make this a popular spot.
