We spoke to the Dublin journalist and writer about the best places to experience all this brilliant part of the capital has to offer
Where to drink: Walsh’s Pub
My husband says it’s the best pint of Guinness in Dublin, but I’m partial to their French rosé which is served in a lovely frosted wine glass. You can’t beat the hospitality from Anto and his team at any time of year – it’s as gorgeous in the depths of winter with the fire roaring as it is in summertime when people are spilling out on to the pavement with their pints. It’s a local institution.
Where to eat:
Grano
When Roberto Mungo opened his tiny Italian restaurant on the main street of Stoneybatter in 2018, I don’t think anyone knew just how hugely successful it would be – it’s now impossible to get a reservation, but so worth it if you persevere. From the fresh handmade pasta to the Calabrian delicacies, it’s the best place to eat in Stoneybattter. But if you really can’t get a table, try….
A Fianco
It literally means next door in Italian, and it’s Roberto’s newer offering that opened last year and serves wine, aperitifs and small plates. It’s a tiny but extremely chic little bar, very modern Italian and the perfect place to meet a pal for a catch up. Order the Tigelle, it’s like a tiny posh ham sandwich. And if you like fish, the Sardella di Crucoli (caviar of the poor) is my absolute favourite.
Where to get fresh air: The Phoenix Park
I’ve lived in Stoneybatter for over ten years, but never fully appreciated the glory of the park until the pandemic – and then we were so grateful it was in our 2k! It has everything – beautiful nature, free-roaming deer, cute cafes and picturesque walks. I’d be lost without it.
Random gem: Drink Store
It feels odd to recommend an off-licence, but Drink Store is much more than that. It’s independently owned, and they pride themselves on having practically every drink available in Ireland, no matter how obscure. The guys really know their stuff as well, which is brilliant if you’re looking for a present or just for a really good bottle of wine for a special occasion.
Where to get pampered: Top To Toe
I adore this beauty salon, not only because the women who run it are friendly, kind and the absolute craic, but also because they’re brilliant at their jobs and their prices are unbeatable. A pedicure with Lorraine is my favourite treat, but I also love a full set of pointy nails from Robin, a spray tan from Ruth and a wax from Nicola. I send everyone new to the area there!
Where to browse: Manor Street
This is half cheating because so many things occupy the main street of Stoneybatter, but that’s what makes it so amazing! You have Kerala Kitchen for Indian, Mooz Italian deli, the Green Door bakery, Kanes florist, L Mulligan Grocer, All Bar Chicken, Project 29 gift shop, Hakkahan authentic Chinese, The Belfry… I could go on and on. It’s the best little area in the world, with the biggest personality.
We spoke to Vicki ahead of the publication of her debut novel, Reality Check. Here’s what she had to say about it:
“My new novel was inspired by the countless hours I spent watching Housewives and Kardashians bickering on tv during the pandemic. I thought it strange that we didn’t have a famous Irish reality star in the US, so I decided to invent her and that’s how Desdemona “Dessie” Daniels was born. Reality Check is about Dessie and her daughters Portia and Lavinia who both find themselves facing huge relationship problems, and how money and fame don’t prevent you from experiencing heartache – often, the opposite is true.
“It’s a fun, escapist and light-hearted read, and I’m incredibly proud of it.”
Reality Check is available to buy online and in bookstores now.
