So, the best new addition to the Dublin burger game isn't even in Dublin.
It's located a mere few hundred metres south of the border, right in the middle of Bray seafront – but you absolutely shouldn't let that stop you. And here's why.
In fact, the building that houses this restaurant – along with Platform Pizza and Ocean Restaurant – used to be the CIE canteen for drivers at the end of their route. That's how close it is to the station.
It's well worth the journey too.
Before it was a little treasure trove of shit-hot restaurants, but after it was a CIE canteen, this building played host to the unforgettable Liquid nightclub.
Anyone who grew up in Bray in the 1990s or 2000s will walk in the door here and instantly remember the time they asked the guy from Pres/girl from Loreto for the shift, and were cruelly rejected. #neverforget
Great lighting, a gorgeous décor and music that’s pumping but not overwhelming.
Because they're fucking massive.
These are the nachos with pulled beef. Every food mega-trend of the last five years on one plate.
And this gives them a delicious, rich taste – though it’s more of a subtle hint than a pungent hit, so don’t worry if you’re not a fan of the yellow stuff.
“I didn’t even like mustard before I opened this place,” manager Adam told me.
I bet you do now, Adam. I bet you do now.
It’s not original, but if it ain’t broke etc.
They're thinking about adding an alternative type of bread for those who aren't into brioche, and there's also a gluten-free option available.
Not that I went anywhere near them, but this one off Facebook looks pretty tasty for a lunch option...
Choice anxiety alert.
The memories of teenage rejection may require you to get one of these into you. Go for it.
The beer selection is absolutely fantastic, with some cracking options on draft – including a whole selection from Wicklow Wolf, who are based just around the corner.
On this particular night, it was the classic with sundried tomatoes, truffle oil and parmesan shavings.
Truffle oil!
They liked it, so they put a ring in it.
Okay so.
And if you don't like gherkins, don't worry – the sweet potato fries will more than cheer you up.
Not in a shoe, on a shovel, on a plank or on a disused car bonnet.
Nice, old-fashioned plates. Hallelujah.
Because this is what's for dessert.
Because there wasn’t enough sugar in the donuts.
This place has been steadily growing since it opened about three months ago – and you can tell why. It's absolutely awesome.
Throw in Platform Pizza, Dockyard Number 8, The Big Dogs Galley, The Port House and the slightly more upmarket Barracuda, and you’ve got a strip of joints to rival even South William Street.
This is what reinvention looks like – good hustle, Bray.
