Greene's at Isaacs: "Michelin Standard - Superb" Cork Restaurant Tip by SabrinaSummerville

Treating my student Niece to dinner I wanted to bring her someplace really special. After all, we were in the City that was home to my Alma Mater and where she was now the poor but brilliant student.

Until now my favourite eatery had been Jacob's on the Mall, but I had been there so many times that I was anxious to tantalise our tastebuds with something more special. Trawling the internet (and thank goodness for the net) I happened upon Greene's and was immediately enticed by both the website and the menu. I don't know about you, but I start to salivate the moment I read a particularly special menu, and this was one of the best.

Situated on McCurtain Street, it's close to the railway station on the Eastern exit from the City. I found parking outside, but I was lucky as the streetside parking spaces were mostly full.

The restaurant is down a short but stunning laneway that's part of the Isaacs complex consisting of a Hotel, Greene's restaurant, and a more casual eatery called Isaacs, which I have previously reviewed. As soon as you enter the gateway to the lane your ears are filled with the sound or falling water and as your eyes adjust to the light you find yourself in a magical place. Pld fashioned cobblestones lead you along an olde worlde alleyway, carefully lit in a yellowish green light. Wooden tables and chairs scattered along here provide a haven for smokers and drinkers alike. At the back of this alleyway a three story high facade of natural rock has been transformed by a man made waterfall, floodlit in blue. Pots of plants abound and the whole atmosphere is one of magic.

Inside the atmosphere is rather different - rustic yet modern, the place is buzzing and once you taste the food you can see why. We sat in the bar area studying the menu, then were brought to our table which was in a very cosy but spacious corner area....almost like a booth. We were beside a window looking out onto a very quaint, almost 19th century street.

Favorite Dish: The food is beyond wonderful. I started with

Comparison: more expensive than average
Price: US$41 and up
Rating: 5
Theme: Eclectic/International