Catherine’s Review Blog

Last Saturday, I headed out in Dublin with my sister Paula. As it was a last minute decision to visit her, we hadn’t made any firm restaurant reservations. We were both dressed informally and not looking for anything too fussy, more somewhere we could have a bite to eat, drink good wine and have a good auld natter and catch up.

She suggested the Porthouse on South William street, and thought we may be lucky to get a table on arrival. Fortunately we did. The restaurant was almost full, we appeared to get the last table for 2, in a corner. Initial impression was of a very dark room. The restaurant is located in the basement, and is candlelit. I found it a smidge claustrophobic, as the ceiling is quite low and painted a dark colour.

The other downside was that the tables were very close to each other, which I find off putting. I would have preferred a bit of distance.

I like eating tapas. I like the fact you can enjoy a selection of flavours in small amounts. We ordered olives marinated in garlic and chilli, which were good. Next, patatas bravas, which are potato cubes served in a fiery tomato sauce. I didn’t find the sauce particularly fiery but the dish was tasty. Plato De Chacineria, which is basically a board of sliced meats and bread, came next. This, though very simple, I enjoyed. Serrano, chorizo, jamon iberico. Yum.

The Pisto Manchego, consisting of diced aubergine, courgette, tomato, onion, garlic topped with cheese,  I thought was a bit bland. The cheese board that followed more than made up for it though.

We drank a lovely rioja -Marques de riscal reserva.

The final bill came to €65 which I thought was good value for money and we left full and happy.

It is definitely one to return to, still plenty of other dishes on the menu that I would be happy ordering. I liked its relaxed atmosphere, though maybe I’d prefer to be seated nearer the entrance to avoid claustrophobia!