Cafe Mao

2 Chatham Row

Dublin 2

(01) 6704899

The only bad thing I have to say about this place is that it's of late been placed into receivership. Another fine restaurant falling victim to the so called 'former' recession.

ANYWAY, this is a little gem of a restaurant not to be missed. Personally I view Mao's in 3 ways.
1. Cafe Mao's has been a regular food stall at Electric Picnic and has been the savior to many a hangover during the fest. It has a set menu and are provided in large portions in little cardboard boxes that stay hot for the little trek back to the tent where you may resume the fetal position at the mercy of a hangover. But as an added treat, this festival food, it tastes brilliant and apparently is rather healthy for you. A nice surprise compared to the standard burger and co.

2. If you're stuck for somewhere for a quick lunch and a catch up with a friend, or just to read a book/newspaper/newspaper hiding a cringe worthy magazine, then Mao's lunch time offer suits perfectly. For €12.99 you can get a starter, main course, tea/coffee and for a euro or two extra you can add a glass of wine or pint of Heineken to the order. Unlike most places that have taken on similar offers, Mao's offers 'the good stuff,' as my mum would put it. The chicken satay is not to be missed. I can happily now prove to people that a chicken satay is meant to be spicy.

3. If you want to impress you dearest and sweetest from a first date, etc, then an evening meal in Mao's is worthwhile. If you're lady love is partial to the odd cocktail, and to be honest who isn't? Then indulge in one please but make sure that you eat with the drink as they have tendency to be a tad strong. Not that I'm complaining personally. The full menu for the evening is full of plenty of little treats that fail to leave that bitter MSG taste in your mouth.

Personally everything on the menu is an excellent standard of food in regards to taste and visual effect so if unsure of what to order, ask your waiter/waitress for a recommendation and be pleasantly surprised.

P.S. No matter what season it is, as long as it's not raining, then sit outside in the sun and have your meal. If it's cold then you can ask nicely and you'll be provided with a blanket. An extra little treat for those who like creature comforts.