Sunday, January 1, 2012

BUSY BUZZ IN MARKET LANE


MARKET LANE


Walking into Oliver Plunkett Street’s Market Lane restaurant is like walking into a hive: busy, buzzing. And, yes, some sweet things but let us start at the beginning. This is a no reservation restaurant (unless you have a party of six or more) but we two were in early and, without delay, we were seated by the window.

My starter was Ham Hock Terrine and spiced apple relish with handmade linseed crackers and gherkins (€7.70). A pretty substantial plateful and really tasty. See my grainy Foodspotting shot here

Got away from the meat on the main course and picked the Spinach and ricotta ravioli with wild mushrooms, semi-sundried tomatoes, cream and parmesan (€13.95). There is a big choice of main courses but I was very happy with this. Very satisfying on all fronts, quality and quantity, loved the whole combination.

Saw some old favourites on the dessert menu (all 6 euro) but also spotted a newcomer (to me). That was Vanilla and Gingerbread Cheesecake with a Blueberry Compote. This was a beautiful dessert, layered in a large enough glass. It had a crunchy gingerbread topping; the vanilla was in the middle and then a substantial bed of delicious juicy berries. Looked well and tasted well. What more would you want?

Service was of the usual high standard, friendly and efficient. And wine? Well, not a bottle this time but I did enjoy a glass of their lovely Muriel Rioja Crianza 2007 (€6.50). Indeed, their drinks list is quite extensive here. There is a bar on the premises so you may have draught beer and bottles of course, cocktails, a choice of about twenty wines along with the teas and coffees.

No comments: