Well kept secret

When, I wonder, was the last time you paid €2.80 for a large bottle of mineral water in a restaurant, or €13

When, I wonder, was the last time you paid €2.80 for a large bottle of mineral water in a restaurant, or €13.49 for the dearest main course on offer?

On the top floor of Marks Spencer on Dublin’s Grafton Street you will find a big, airy restaurant with tables waited upon by cheery staff. And, just off it, there’s a big outside terrace with views of Grafton Street. It bothers me that, when I was doing a round-up of eating facilities in the nation’s department stores at Christmas, I neglected to mention this facility. I simply didn’t know it was there.

Prices are very, very keen and all dishes and wines are available downstairs in the food hall. My fish and chips (€10.99) comprised a huge piece of delicious haddock, in crisp batter, served with chunky chips and mayonnaise for dipping.