The Mansion House has been the official residence of the Lord Mayor of Dublin since 1715 - it is the only mayoral residence in Ireland, and older than any mayoral residence in Britain.
This Dublin restaurants in a very large room previously known as The Supper Room and the room itself is of sufficient interest to be worth a look even if you haven't time to eat; the unusual Celtic themed contemporary décor of the restaurant, 'Fire', is unexpected in this graceful old room, but it offers well executed smart food, in classy surroundings served with a twist of chic.
The cosmopolitan outdoor seating area at the front of Fire hints at the style that pervades throughout the impressive interior and the spacious dining room is slick, successfully blending a sophisticated modern feel within the historical setting of the building.
The room's centrepiece of three Celtic spires, a beautiful wall mosaic at the rear of the building, and the elemental lighting sets an opulent atmosphere, without being too formal.
Outstandingly polite staff are quick to make you feel very welcome, promptly providing enticing menus that offer uncomplicated contemporary and rustic European dishes based on the best of ingredients, notably the house speciality of flatbread pizzas - which are cooked in the restaurant's own wood burning stove - and delicious tender steaks of 100% prime dry-aged Irish beef.
Deliciously moreish puddings end a meal here well, and a good wine list offers excellent value in the house wines selection and more adventurous options for those who wish to indulge.
The popularity of Fire is well earned and easily explained, as it offers the right mix of unpretentious food cooked to a high standard, served with lashings of style at an affordable price.
Seats 200; L Thu-Sat only, 12-3pm; D Mon-Sat 5-9pm. Early bird D €23.95. House wine from €23. Children welcome (high chair, childrens menu); wheelchair access to public areas & toilets. Closed Sun, Bank hols; 25/26 Dec. Amex, MasterCard, Visa, Laser.
