Cornstore Restaurant, Cork

Birthday dinner with the hubby

Photo: Courtesy of Cornstore Restaurant

When I heard Cornstore Restaurant was renovating their bar area with new a menu, décor, craft beers and furnishings I was intrigued immediately. I have visited a few times however I always thought there was a missed opportunity where the bar was concerned. I made a reservation for two (as it was my husband’s birthday) and when we arrived I was pleasantly surprised with the overhaul. The rich colours, the velvet upholstery with spacious booths and gold trimmings made it even more luxurious.

Aperitif

Champagne of course! (The perks of being married to a French man). A bottle of Moet chilled on ice, with a bowl of fresh strawberries was the right choice. After all, it was a celebratory occasion so an easy win. The variety of cocktails to choose from will keep you occupied in the event champers isn’t your thing. We ordered a couple portions of marinated olives to tie us over while we perused the menu.

Happy birthday mon cheri

Starters

The hubby ordered the classic steamed mussels (did I mention he’s French?) and I chose the spicy prawn pil pil because clearly I didn’t have enough garlic with the olives! The best part of this course, watching my husband cleverly stack his mussel shells like his own version of Tetris.

The verdict - Simple. Flawless. Delicious. PS. The champagne was getting topped up every step of the way which was fabulous.

Main course

The birthday boy selected the fillet steak with a side of pepper sauce and all the trimmings. Creamy mash, sauteed mushrooms and onion rings! I was drawn to the roast chicken breast which came with confit leg croquettes, fondant potato, braised leek, baby carrots & pan jus. It was delicious. PSS. Champagne was still flowing and at this point.

This picture doesn't do it justice

Dessert

What I admire most about my husband is his predictability. Dessert is a requirement with every meal and his birthday celebration was no exception. He ordered the Cornstore style ferrero rocher with malt ice cream. I stayed true to my diva self and ordered an espresso martini. Yes, I consider this dessert. RIP champagne, we had a great run together!

Testing out the new kicks!

If you want to be seen, this is where you need to be! The dimmed lighting, fresh flowers on tables and aroma from the kitchen was intoxicating. And here comes the fashion! The ladies and gents entering the restaurant were on point. All this place needed was a cat walk with Anna Wintour in the front row and you’ve got yourself a fashion show! I passed up wearing a sparkling frock for a River Island combo. Ohhhh snap!

I would encourage everyone to check out the Cornstore Restaurant (sit in the bar area) for the impeccable service, all the nom noms, delicious cocktails and of course, the people watching! It was a fabulous evening and really exceeded our expectations. Thank you to Cathy and all her lovely staff for attending our every need. #cornstorecork

MM x