This past weekend I was in Dublin. I had not really been expecting much from the restaurant scene, a sentiment reflected by most of my friends when I told them I was heading there. The reality is since the recession, a new wave of restaurants taking cues from London and New York joints, have popped up across the city. From cocktail bars to great Mexican, the foodie scene in Dublin is really coming into its own.
One of my favourite restaurants during my visit was 777, on George’s Street. From the outside you would hardly know it’s a restaurant, due to the simple black exterior and frosted windows, all which suggest that only those in the know should eat here. However, once inside you are transported a world away from Dublin, surrounded by Mexican décor, ceramic titling and low lighting, all of which really bring the friendly and lively atmosphere to life.
We sat at the bar, where we could watch the bartenders at work while we enjoyed our meal. The service was very friendly, informal, and helpful. The waiting staff knew their menu, and were happy to make suggestions. As a vegan, eating out can sometimes be a challenge, but they were more than happy to adapt items from the menu for me.
It’s not the cheapest, but the food was so good we didn’t really mind. The starters/ small dishes are mostly between €9-12, and included tortillas, tacquitos, soup, and ceviche. We were told that two to three starters equal one main. We both ordered 2 starts and a side and could hardly move after, so you can probably get away with ordering just two. I cannot say enough about the food to do it justice, but who would have thought you would find some of the best Mexican in Europe, in Dublin?
I had a modified version of the Setas Salvajes taquito, which usually comes with wild mushrooms, chipotle pesto and roast garlic crema. The incredible mixture of flavours, made this dish worth the visit on its own! I also had a side of Calabazitas: braised squash, corn, tomato, epazote, cilantro. This would easily feed two and was a sweet, stewed vegetable dish that complemented our tostados and taquitos perfectly. My dining partner had the Mexican corn and Huachinango, a blackened snapper taquito server with avocado, shaved cabbage, and poblana lime crema. I was assured these were equally delicious!
777 are also well known for their margaritas. We were told by a few people they were the best in town and I am inclined to agree. They also had a number of more interesting drinks like the Violencia Roja, which consists of gin, lemon juice, jalapeño and rosemary syrup, and creole bitters – delicious!
As it says on their website, 777 draws on the bold flavors and vibrant colors of Mexico City, to provide an energetic atmosphere with creative, accessible cuisine in the heart of Dublin. If you are in the area make sure to visit – we promise you won’t be disappointed.