Pichet would fit in well on Peter D’s ‘best bread baskets’ list. No, I’m not kidding. Check it out: http://bit.ly/kAbPIO
In fact, one server came by to see if we were done with our bread, to which I may or may not have shot lasers out of my eyes toward him; he half-jokingly (but seriously…) quipped, ‘It seems to cause people pain when we take them away.’ Yes. Yes, it does. Leave that crispy-on-the-outside-yet-fluffy-on-the-inside steamy fresh deliciousness with me. Or I might start brandishing my butter knife at someone.
Also, once inside the cosy, not-quite-cramped dining room, we were fortunate enough to obtain arguably the best seats in the house: immediately outside of the open kitchen. I could watch chefs work all day long – throwing various and sundry ingredients into pots and pans, ladling tantalising foodstuffs onto plates and bowls… my mouth is watering just recalling the sights and smells. I recall it being quite warm inside – even with the windows open to the fresh evening air – so dress appropriately (read: layers).
And of course, what good would it be to share about Pichet without mentioning the food? Not feeling exceptionally hungry, I had the pork belly with a side of mixed greens.
Have you ever had a salad where every single leaf of lettuce seemed to be hand-selected? One where every single bite was crisp zesty? When the dressing is so exceptionally tossed that there’s not a single flawless moment of rabbit-food ecstasy? Yeah. This is worth your €3.50.
The pork belly was almost so artistically presented I was nearly loath* to touch it. The scent of crispy, fatty, savoury, delectable oinker was enough to overcome my hesitation. Again, the dish exceeded my expectations, with crunchy skin that a simple table knife was able to penetrate, and utterly moist meat hiding beneath. Unless you’re feeling ravenous, a main and a side should fill you right up – I’m an eater, and I was thoroughly satisfied with my portions.
I do wish that both of their draught beers hadn’t run out earlier, but I suppose that speaks to the Irish condition. You’re not that far from The Long Hall, which is likely to have a better pint anyhow. And the only other moment of confusion was when we realised our bottle of wine was mistakenly left off the bill. Being the upstanding citizens we are, we made mention of it to the server for a prompt correction (although I wouldn’t have been sad if they’d omitted it).
Still, fair’s fair. While I can’t say that Pichet is an amazing deal, I wholly believe that you’ll get your full money’s value out of a meal here. What’re you waiting for – make a booking!
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* I totally -just- learned the difference between ‘loath’ and ‘loathe’. Who knew they weren’t interchangeable?!