Brasserie 7, Capel Street

Brasserie 7, located in the North Inner City, on a corner between Mary's Abbey and Capel Street, opposite the Boar’s Head. 

A modern-ish Brasserie with a twist; the food can be hit or miss, it is definitely not one of Dublin’s hidden gems.

I’ve been here four times now and that’s just about all I can take. Venturing inside one evening a few years back for dinner with a friend, I was charmed by the grand piano in the centre of the room. The restaurant's decor is modern vintage chic with a slight hint of the Orient in parts - mirrors adorning the walls, alongside garish red canvas paintings.

On my return this week the place looked tired. I had purchased a biteabargain voucher for €19 which included a starter and a main for two people. The menu had changed significantly since my last visit. 

I ordered the chicken wings and the Spinach & Ricotta cheese tortellini. My friend also had the chicken wings and the Pan fried supreme of chicken which she loved. I have to admit the chicken wings were divine, but the pasta was undercooked and tasteless. The sauce was nice and it looked beautiful, but who wants to chew on undercooked pasta.

This was a stark contrast to the previous menu of Irish Goat's Cheese, Roasted Garlic & Honey Salad with Candied Walnuts & Raspberry Vinaigrette. Summer delights tossed into one bowl. It was beautiful, bursting with sweetness and evened out with the creamy coolness of the cheese. 

The Twice cooked Daube of Irish Beef, which consisted of slow cooked beef in red wine sauce, Horseradish Mash and compote of Cabbage, pancetta & rosemary had sincerely lived up to its complex description. The beef was mouth-watering and the mash and cabbage were equally as nice, but I'm not sure where the pancetta was hiding. Much less vibrantly the Butter Thyme Roasted Breast of Chicken arrived across the table, also served with Mash Potato, accompanied by Greens, and Creamy Wild Mushroom Sauce. The report was good, but more-ish.

On that occasion we didn't have a second thought about ordering another glass of wine or dessert. We decided to share two. Our choices: the Lemon Posset with Lime & Coconut Cream and the Baileys Cheesecake. They were both like a mini piece of heaven. I adore lemon desserts and cheesecake - both were delightful. Dinner for two with an enticing voucher from GrabOne (2015)for €19.90 for 2 courses and a glass of wine each, two desserts and extra wine came to €37.90.

Last time I would have definitely said they were worth a visit as they always have great deals on, great food and fabulous service but now I would say give the place a wide berth.

With the biteabargain for €19, coffee and water added on, the whole debacle came to €25.60. You get what you pay for!