Bonsoir: 1. Derry & Sally Anne Clarke; 2. Noelle Murray, Andrea Roche & Alison Canavan; 3. Niall O'Farrell & Fiona Kelly. (Pix. Conor Healy)
Fans of French style cuisine can rejoice with the official opening of Brasserie Le Pont, Dublin’s newest restaurant. Those-in-the-know will be familiar with it, having beaten a path to the door in the past couple of months, but the secret is now out.
Strategically located close to Leeson Street bridge, Le Pont (French for ‘the bridge’, but you knew that) is surely one of the most stylish eateries this town has ever seen. It’s got a beautiful wine bar section that will appeal to the entrepreneurs locale and a heated outdoor terrace for those who enjoy al fresco long lunches away from prying eyes.
To celebrate the opening the Kelly family hosted a fine wine and canapé feast to the tune of some light jazz music. Close family friend Theresa Lowe was a special guest and joined on the evening by model Alison Canavan, Rob White and Andrea Roche, Niall O’Farrell, publisher Michael O’Doherty, Tom Kitt and a number of dignitaries from the nearby embassies.
Head chef James Doyle boasts top restaurants like Rhodes D7 and Gordon Ramsay at the Ritz Carlton among his previous employers so the kitchen credentials are excellent. In essence Brasserie Le Pont delivers the goodness of Gallic food without the cliché surroundings.
Speaking of The Ritz-Carlton, the Gordon Ramsay restaurant at the luxury destination resort has re-launched and is now known as Gordan Ramsey at Powerscourt. The new concept includes a restaurant refurbishment, which gives a contemporary look and feel, along with a new Wine Bar.
It will serve a simple, seasonal and local menu using the best ingredients Ireland has to offer with all the finesse expected from a Ramsay restaurant. The delectable new menu, similar to the Savoy Grill in London, will include well-loved classic dishes with a modern twist all using the finest local produce.
The talented Peter Byrne has recently been appointed Chef de Cuisine, having spent over 6 years working as Senior Sous Chef at Chapter One, while Gordon himself pays regular visits to keep everyone on their toes.
