Dining afloat is an attraction in many European cities but, until relatively recently, Dublin has remained stubbornly out of the loop.
The barge is smartly got up with red velvet couches and seat covers, and gleaming varnished tables complete with a small lamp and button to call for service. It's quite a squeeze when fully booked, but that's all part of the fun.
Typical starters may include Charlemont Bridge Smoky – gratin of haddock with cherry tomatoes or a Charcuterie plate of smoked duck, saucisson and duck pate.
Mains range from slow-cooked beef in red wine with carrots, button mushrooms and baby potatoes to sea bass fillet served with greens and roasted tomatoes.
Vegetarians can look forward to ricotta and spinach tortellini, cooked in garlic cream with seasonal mushroom scented with truffle oil.
The atmosphere is helped along by friendly and helpful service and, as well as a good choice of (mainly French) wines, there's a small list of French beers and ciders.
The barge is a great place for a party, and can be hired exclusively, with live music if requested.
All round it's an entertaining addition to the Dublin dining scene, adding a different dimension to the city.
*La Péniche was our Atmospheric Restaurant of the Year in 2007.
