Translating as 'At the water's edge' in Urdu, this smart two-storey restaurant specialising in authentic Pakistani and Northern Indian cuisine enjoys a scenic location overlooking Bull Island - and is now firmly established as the area's leading ethnic restaurant (and one of the best in Dublin).
This Dublin restaurants fine views are a feature at lunch time or on bright summer evenings, and there's a cosy upstairs bar with Indian cookbooks to inspire guests waiting for a table or relaxing after dinner.
A warm welcome from the dashing Sudanese doorman, Muhammad, ensures a good start, and the restaurant has a very pleasant ambience, with soft lighting, antiques, interesting paintings, the gentlest of background music and streamlined table settings.
The menu begins with an introduction to the cuisine, explaining the four fundamental flavours known collectively as 'pisawa masala' - tomato, garlic, ginger and onions - and their uses.
Each dish is clearly described, including starters like kakeragh (local crab claws with garlic, yoghurt, spices and a tandoori masala sauce) and main courses such as the luxurious Sumandari Badsha (lobster tails with cashew nuts, pineapple, chilli and spices).
There is a declared commitment to local produce - notably organic beef, lamb and chicken - and sections of the menu devoted to 'lighter fare' and vegetarian main courses (typically Loki Mushroom, a vegetarian dish of courgettes and mushrooms in a light spicy yoghurt sauce).
The kitchen team have over 80 years experience between them and the quality of both food and cooking is exemplary: dishes have distinct character and depth of flavour, and everything is appetisingly presented with regard for colour, texture and temperature - and fine food is backed up by attentive, professional service under the supervision of restaurant manager, Anwar Gul, and fair prices.
Care and attention marks every aspect of this comfortable and attractive restaurant, earning it a loyal following.
*Kinara was the Guide's Ethnic Restaurant of the Year in 2004.
**Sister restaurants are Kajjal, in Malahide, Co Dublin and Kinara Kitchen, in Ranelagh, Dublin 6 (see entries).
