Established in 2010 - a long time ago in the restaurant industry, as empires are built and dissolve, fads come and go - this modern chef-owned bistro in historic Camden Market has stood the test of time.
Known for reliable cooking and good value, Camden Kitchen has a loyal clientèle - and, while the name may suggest something a little more rustic, the fare offered here has finesse. And no wonder, as Chef-proprietor Padraic Hayden applies the skills he acquired in the likes of One Pico and Still at The Dylan (where he was head chef) to the more intimate setting of this Dublin 8 local - and Magali Chamson (also ex-Still) fronts the house with considerable charm.
Located in a relatively quiet terrace of redbrick Victorian buildings, off bustling Camden Street, it's a two-storey premises with large windows creating light-filled spaces on both levels - a pleasant spot to enjoy an aperitif (a glass of crisp Alberino, Rias Biax perhaps) with early evening sunshine streaming through. The decor is distinctive, modern and simple, with the room painted in muted dark hues and a large black and white image of an equine head lookin down on the diners.
There is some superb value to be had from this Dublin restaurants short daily-changing menus, especially for main courses (which average at low teens for lunch and mid twenties for dinner).
Expect quality bistro fare delivered through solid, well-executed cooking,perhaps with especially good starters and desserts: in a delicious starter of whipped goats cheese and sliced apple salad served with leaves and cubes of beetroot, for example, the goats cheese provides a really nice tartness that is softened by its creamy texture.
While the choice may not be extensive - one vegetarian main course, and perhaps a selection of duck, hake or chicken - menus change daily (a boon for local diners) and the very tasty food is handsomely presented on dark earthenware plates which enhances the lighter ingredients.
The wine list is quite short, but carefully selected; it includes good choices by the carafe (650ml) and by the glass, and the very friendly and helpful staff can give you a good steer on pairing these with your menu choices.
Overall all this is a very competent kitchen - chef Padraic Hayden takes good care in what he puts on each plate - and, backed up by warmly professional service, it's a consistently reliable choice for a wide-ranging clientèle.
It would be a good choice for a family get together, especially if you require a bit of privacy, as there is a more secluded dining room upstairs which can host larger groups.
An elegant destination in an increasingly well-served neighbourhood - and there are plenty of lively places, very close by, for an after dinner adventure.
