Exceptional Iberian cooking at Dublin’s newest opening – The Irish Times

Okay, here’s a breakdown of the provided text, focusing on describing the restaurant “Bang” and its offerings, categorized for clarity:

1. Atmosphere & decor:

* Cozy & inviting: The room is described as one you “settle into quickly” and stay in longer than intended.This suggests a comfortable and relaxed ambiance.
* Color Palette: Dark brown upholstered banquettes contribute to a warm and sophisticated feel.
* Visuals: The images show a modern, tastefully decorated interior. The rooms appear well-lit and designed with a focus on comfort and a contemporary aesthetic.

2. Cuisine – Iberian Focus:

* Iberian Influence: the menu is strongly inspired by Iberian (Spanish and Portuguese) cuisine.
* Subtlety & Restraint: It doesn’t rely on overly stereotypical dishes (“no gildas”). Instead, it focuses on quality ingredients and well-executed classics.
* Key Dishes Mentioned:

* Jamón (cured ham)
* croquettes
* Tortilla (Spanish omelet) – specifically a “Cal Pep” version with Gubbeen chorizo
* Fideuà (a paella-like dish made with short pasta instead of rice) with red mullet.
* meat & Fish cooked over fire.
* Ibérico Pork Secreto (featured in the last image).

* Cooking Style: The cooking style is described as “restrained” and honed in Michelin-starred kitchens – suggesting a high level of skill and attention to detail. There’s a focus on letting the ingredients speak for themselves, avoiding “overworked” flavors.
* Reference Point: Cal Pep in Barcelona is mentioned as an inspiration, specifically the authentic, abundant seafood and the classic tortilla.

3. Wine Program:

* Well-Curated: The wine list is thoughtfully chosen to complement the food, not overwhelm it.
* Iberian Focus: It leans heavily towards Iberian wines.
* price Range: Bottles are generally in the €55-€75 range,reflecting the quality of the producers (Rafael palacios,comando G,Filipa Pato,Dominio de Tares).
* Sommelier Guidance: A sommelier (Victor Baquero) is available to help with selections.

4. Overall Impression:

* Confidence & Authenticity: The restaurant exudes “quiet confidence”,not needing to overly prove its Iberian roots. It’s described as a sophisticated and refined take on Iberian cuisine.
* High Quality: The restaurant gives the impression of being a high-quality dining experience with excellent ingredients and skilled execution.

In essence, “Bang” appears to be a restaurant that offers a refined and subtly authentic Iberian dining experience in a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.

What dishes can you expect to find on The Old Spot’s menu that showcase authentic Iberian flavors?

Exceptional Iberian Flavours Arrive in Dublin: A Look at The Old Spot

Dublin’s dining scene continues to evolve, and the latest buzz surrounds The Old Spot, a new restaurant garnering attention for its dedication to authentic Iberian cuisine. While relatively new to the landscape, recent reviews – notably from The Irish Times on January 15th, 2026 – highlight a promising start, especially their Sunday lunch service. This isn’t just another restaurant opening; it’s a focused exploration of flavours from Spain and Portugal, bringing a taste of the Iberian Peninsula to Dublin 4.

Decoding Iberian Cuisine: More Than Just Paella

Many associate iberian food with paella and tapas, but the culinary landscape is far richer.The region boasts incredible diversity, influenced by its history, geography, and climate.

* Spanish Influence: think robust stews like cocido, fresh seafood dishes along the coastlines, and the iconic jamón ibérico – cured Iberian ham. Regional variations are key; basque cuisine differs dramatically from Andalusian fare.

* Portuguese Delights: Portugal offers caldo verde (a vibrant green soup), bacalhau (salt cod prepared in countless ways), and pastéis de nata (custard tarts). Seafood is, unsurprisingly, a cornerstone of Portuguese cooking.

* Shared Heritage: Both countries share a love for olive oil, garlic, and simple, fresh ingredients, allowing the quality of the produce to shine.

The Old Spot appears to be embracing this breadth, moving beyond the typical and offering a more nuanced experience.

The Old Spot: What the Reviews Say

The Irish Times review specifically praised The Old Spot’s Sunday lunch.Beyond the food, the review highlighted a “well-run room” and “good cooking,” suggesting a focus on both quality and service. This is crucial; a fantastic menu is only half the battle. A charming atmosphere and attentive staff elevate the entire dining experience.

What specifically makes their Sunday lunch stand out? While details are still emerging, the emphasis on charm and a well-executed menu suggests a focus on traditional techniques and high-quality ingredients. Expect hearty portions and flavours that transport you to the Iberian Peninsula.

beyond Sunday Lunch: Potential Menu Highlights

While the Sunday lunch is currently receiving attention, diners are eager to see the full extent of The Old Spot’s Iberian offerings. Here’s what we can anticipate, based on the broader culinary traditions of Spain and Portugal:

1. Tapas Selection: A curated selection of tapas is almost a certainty. Expect classics like patatas bravas, gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp), and pan con tomate.
2. Seafood focus: given the coastal influence on Iberian cuisine, expect fresh seafood dishes. Grilled sardines, octopus salad, and seafood stews are strong possibilities.
3. Meat Dishes: Cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig) is a Spanish specialty, while Portuguese francesinha (a hearty sandwich) could also feature.
4. Wine List: A thoughtfully curated wine list featuring Spanish and Portuguese wines is essential. Rioja, Albarino, Vinho Verde, and Port should all be represented.
5. Desserts: Beyond the ubiquitous pastéis de nata, look for Spanish flan and other regional sweets.

The Dublin Dining Scene & Iberian Cuisine: A growing Trend?

Dublin’s culinary landscape is becoming increasingly diverse.The success of The Old Spot could signal a growing appetite for Iberian flavours. Several factors contribute to this trend:

* Increased Travel: More people are travelling to Spain and Portugal,experiencing the cuisine firsthand and seeking it out upon their return.

* Focus on Fresh Ingredients: Iberian cooking emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients, aligning with current dining trends.

* Social Dining: Tapas-style dining encourages sharing and social interaction, making it ideal for groups.

Practical Tips for Visiting The old Spot

* Reservations: Given the positive early reviews,reservations are highly recommended,especially for Sunday lunch.

* Explore the Menu: Don’t be afraid to ask your server for recommendations. Iberian cuisine can be unfamiliar, and they can guide you through the options.

* Wine Pairing: Take advantage of the wine list and ask for pairing suggestions to enhance your meal.

* Embrace the Experience: Iberian dining is about more than just the food; it’s about enjoying the company and savouring the flavours.