It’s always lovely to treat yourself to a really nice lunch or dinner out. Whether you’re celebrating a promotion, meeting a good friend, or simply overdue for a little wining and dining, my recommendation for the ultimate indulgent restaurant experience would be The Chop House on Shelbourne Road. But don’t just take my word for it – it’s also been recommended as one of Ireland’s Top Gastro Pubs in the Michelin Guide 2015 (I’ve heard they know their stuff) and just last week Lucinda O’Sullivan included it in her “Best Places To Stay and Eat” Guide in the Sunday Independent.
In case you need even more reasons to pay this eatery a visit (as if!) I’ve compiled a handy list of my favourite things about this wonderful dining establishment.
1. Soak up the sun
First of all, let’s talk windows. As you can see below, the Chop House has lots. Basking in natural light and enjoying a view of the great outdoors is just good for the soul. Often, going for a fancy meal involves sitting in a dark, quiet room – which can be great sometimes – but on a sunny day like today it’s good to soak in the sun! Enter the Chop House, and you’re in a fun, vibrant environment filled with light and people. Plus, you get a lovely view of the rest of Beggars Bush. Check it out for yourself in the virtual tour below!
2. Food at its finest
If you go to The Chop House, you know you’re guaranteed really, really great food. Each dish is crafted with care, using only the highest quality ingredients. There’s simply nowhere better for a reliably wonderful meal. Seriously. Owners Kevin Arundel and Gillian Mulcahy and Head Chef Kevin Gallagher each bring seriously impressive culinary skills to the table and it shows in every single dish.
Venison yum gotta love pub food @HandFMarlow @gazzachef pic.twitter.com/JWTCgstjNM
— kevin arundel (@the_chophouse) December 25, 2015
3. Show some love to Irish growers
The Chop House sources their produce locally, so you can go for an amazing dinner and support local Irish farmers in one fell swoop. Especially renowned for their steaks, The Chop House sources all their beef from two farms, one in Louth and another in Roscommon. From there, The Chop House dry ages the beef in-house for 35 days to bring out that exceptional flavour.
4. Decadent desserts
In the event that you’ve finished your delicious Chop House dinner and somehow have room for dessert, you’re in luck. The Chop House has an in-house baker who makes decadent and innovative desserts. In my book, any dessert menu that includes a dish topped with “Pistachio & Mascarpone Cream” deserves at least a quick look, wouldn’t you agree?
We are pretty good at dessert too… Orange/almond sponge €7 Sticky toffee €7 Lunch M-F 12pm-2.30pm thechophouse.ie pic.twitter.com/I9jb65emZS
— kevin arundel (@the_chophouse) June 27, 2016
5. Pubbin’ and clubbin’
Okay, yes, you can go to the Chop House for lunch and dinner. But you should also keep the Chop House in mind for more casual – OR more upscale – occasions! Pop in for a casual drink on match days, or book a spot in their bimonthly Beef Club, where foodies meet to chat over a terrific five-course meal. Upstairs, they have one last surprise – the stunning Artichoke Room! A bright open space to host a function, or to celebrate a birthday, christening or intimate wedding party which can cater for up to 80 people.
Bottom line: If you want really exceptional food in a lovely environment, this is the place to go.
This week’s BBD4 Business In Focus Post was written by Lucie Lyon.