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PROUDLY SPONSORED BY BITESIZE WORDS Martina Murra
y PRE-THEATRE DINING AT SOLE FOR REAL - THE UNICORN RETURNS Hot on the heels of the reincarnation of Dublin’s legendary Coppinger back in July, the fabled Unicorn restaurant is also reawakening culinary memories as it gets set to open its doors on Merrion Row this month. The restaurant, which was originally founded in 1938, makes a welcome return under the stewardship of chef Kristan Burness, who briefly helmed the enterprise back in 2015. As he returns to occupy the hot spot behind the Pass as Head Chef, we’re told that the new menu will once more feature the classic Italian fare beloved of those who previously frequented the buzzy restaurant, including his signature Wild Mushroom and Truffle Risotto, alongside evergreen Unicorn favourites such as Grilled Veal Cutlets, Salsa Verde and Parmesan Mash. Diners can also look forward to a fresh new look, with old school conviviality to the fore. An extensive wine list and selection of cocktails will be available, while the charming outdoor terrace is also reopening for al fresco dining. ‘In Vino Veritas’, the popular piano bar next door, is also being revived, serving tapas, wines and cocktails, with lounge music and live piano at weekends hosted by Justin Kaufman. Reflecting on his new venture Burness says, “It’s been a dream of mine, to finish what I started here a decade ago… There’s challenging times ahead, but if it was easy, it wouldn’t be fun!” @theUnicornDublin With the spotlight on all things thespian this month, those looking to grab a bite before a show are well served, with lots of mouthwatering early bird and pre-theatre offers available throughout the city. Over on South William Street seafood specialist Sole has an early bird menu that runs seven days a week, with a very tempting selection including Roast Monkfish Fillet, served with Crisp Sugar Pit Bacon, wilted spinach, mussels, celeriac, apple and potato broth. They’re also dishing up some gorgeous fish and chips as well as a delicious Pan Seared Fillet of salmon accompanied by purple cauliflower, champ, chive Beurre Blanc, and squid ink tuile. Desserts include a choice of Key Lime Tart, Vegan Chocolate fudge and Wexford Ice Cream. Two courses cost €39 with three courses for €45. The menu is available Mon to Fri from 5pm to 6.30pm and on Saturdays and Sundays from 1pm to 5pm. @soleseafoodandgrill BACK TO SCHOOL AT FAIRMENTAL URBAN HARVEST FESTIVAL AT AIRFIELD This month sees Airfield Estate host a fascinating Urban Harvest festival that offers city slickers an opportunity to engage in some of the rural pursuits traditionally enjoyed by their country cousins. In a unique take on the Ploughing Championships, Dublin’s sustainable food hub and urban farm invites visitors to immerse themselves in a busy weekend packed with traditional activities such as butter making, wood turning, and wool spinning, as they lift the lid on the age-old skills behind farmto-table cuisine. Expect lots of whistling and banter at the sheep dog trials, with a chance to observe the art of sheep-shearing up close and personal. Don’t forget to see about the cattle. Airfield Estate, Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th September. @airfieldestate For many this is one of those months that signifies a chance to regroup and undo all the damage of a feckless summer, so what better time to check out a new series of workshops with the focus firmly on gut health? Fairmental’s interactive classes are a great way to learn about the fascinating world of fermentation, and help elevate healthy meal planning with some tasty fermented foods. There’ll be lots of opportunities for chats and hands-on experimentation in the company of former Nomo chef and Fairmental co-founder Valentin Ivancenco, while everything needed, including the kit, will be provided on the day. Early evening classes take place on Saturdays from 4pm on dates including September 14th, and October 12th, 19th and 26th. Bookings via DM or at Eventbrite. @fairmental_ 28 WE’RE LOVIN’ …Oat and Maple Crunch Peanut Butter, a wholesome new spread that comes packed with single-origin golden peanut butter, toasted oats, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, and chia seeds. The brainchild of Nutshed cofounders and sisters Evie and Eliza Ward, this healthy dollop of extravagance retails at €5.60 and is available from a number of retailers throughout the city, and online at nutshed.ie