Assisted by his partner Yvonne and a smart international staff, leading chef Jason More runs a cool and keenly priced operation at this popular Belfast restaurant in the city's ‘fine dining strip’ behind City Hall (and close to TenSquare Hotel).
Behind a stylish frontage this slightly funky restaurant embraces the trend away from formality but, while a glitter ball gives the bar area an after dark atmosphere and there are some witty touches in the decor, the dining room is mainly classic, with a lovely wooden floor and black pillars, soft mushroom walls and leather chairs.
And there is no questioning the seriousness of the cooking under the owner, Jason More, backed up by excellent, professional and friendly service from a well trained team.
Menus are concise, and prices are very reasonable for the standard offered – and some bar food is offered too.
Even when the restaurant is not busy there are no compromises - and, unusually, prices on the evening à carte are similar to the lunch time offering, which no doubt adds to the appeal.
The menu changes regularly but a classic starter like chicken liver parfait served with warm toasted (individual) brioche and red onion marmalade will never disappoint here and, of the main courses, fish cookery is outstandingly good - so it should come as no surprise that Jason More's more recent venture (The Governor Rocks, in Donaghadee, Co Down) specialises in seafood.
Although the funky vibe may not be quite what it was on opening some years ago, excellent cooking, attractively relevant presentation, attentive and well-informed service and very customer-friendly pricing make this a restaurant to return to - expectations of the cooking will be high, but they should be comfortably met.
The wine list includes house wines at £17 and some interesting wines by the glass.
