2012 Award Winners RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR 2012

Restaurant FortyOne at Residence, Dublin 2

Although the new smart-casual dining is an interesting emerging trend, anyone who doubts that fine dining is alive and well should visit our Restaurant of the Year. This year’s shortlist proves yet again that many of the country’s most creative chefs are continuing to produce sublime classical food in the fine dining style.

Most leading restaurants are well-established, and many have held this award before, but it is always a particular pleasure to welcome a new star. And, hidden behind a handsome creeper-clad façade, this glamorous destination is right in the heart of Dublin’s most fashionable dining district.

Once a private home and more recently destined to be exclusively a private members’ club, Dublin’s lucky diners probably have the recession to thank for the fact that this fine dining restaurant is open to non-members. Beautiful and opulent, the interior marries old with new, and tables in the three first floor dining rooms – one with enviable views over St Stephen’s Green - are set with starched linen cloths, sparkling glasses and silverware.

Such opulent surroundings deserve exquisite food and diners here will not be disappointed by the cooking of the Euro-Toques Head Chef, formerly of Thorntons Restaurant across the Green, where he was head chef for the man many cite as Ireland’s greatest chef, Kevin Thornton. His menus feature a thrilling roll call of seasonal Irish produce balanced with the cleverest and tastiest of accompaniments beautifully presented.

The setting and the calibre of food in Restaurant FortyOne at Residence could make this fine dining experience hushed and formal, but perfectly pitched service make it a more relaxed and contemporary affair, with a friendliness and warmth that creates a hip and intimate dining space.

This is a special place delivering exceptional food in exceptional surroundings. Versatile and stylish, it’s the ideal setting for everything from a business lunch to a special occasion or romantic date.