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Only a week after opening Stanley’s on St. Andrew Street had an air of quiet excitement about it when my two dining partners and I settled into the window seat for lunch. The white and olive colour scheme, with pale wood, low lighting, and vintage mirrors created an old Parisian charm. The seats were comfortable and the table just big enough for the three of us. The waiter was attentive and careful to explain a menu that he was clearly enthusiastic about. He brought water and complimentary Guinness and treacle bread while we chose from the straightforward lunch list. My partners opted for a sandwich each (€8), one spiced beef brisket and one with lemon and garlic chicken, along with a side of chips (€4), while I chose the pasta special (€14): a mushroom and chorizo pappardelle (a wide tagliatelle I soon learned). The food arrived quickly, and a steady stream of curious diners continued to be seated. The baguettes were a little tough but were generously filled and topped with a portion of salad.  The beef was moist and complemented by a sharp horseradish and balsamic onions, while the flavours of lemon, avocado and beetroot balanced surprisingly well with the chicken. The chips were fresh, crisp and simply delicious. My pasta was full of various types of mushrooms and this was the main flavour of the dish, which was served in a light cream sauce with a generous portion of Parmesan on top. So pleased by lunch, we had a look at the dinner menu, but with the mains starting at €19, lunch at Stanley’s is the more affordable and highly recommended option.

Stanley’s is open for lunch and dinner at 5 St. Andrew’s St. Photo by Matthew Mulligan.