Incredible food served up by sassy staff in a cool interior.

The Stokes twins who run this hip haunt are sons of fashion icon Pia Bang, and everything about this restaurant is cool and classy. See white walls, dark wood and pale leather. Think pan-seared foie gras, roast breast of Challans duck and Scandinavian iced berries. Very slick.

11 Merrion Row, Dublin 2, Ireland. Tel: 01 676 0898.

www. bangrestaurant. com.

The Chart House

Don't let this cutesy cottage fool. Inside you'll find cutting-edge cuisine, outstanding hospitality and cosy comforts. Signature dishes include filo parcels of local Annascaul pudding, sesame-coated turbot with leek and fennel fondue and a premium Irish cheese board with home-baked oat biscuits. Specialising in local ingredients with contemporary twists, this is one perennially fashionable spot.

The Mall Road, Dingle, Co Kerry. Tel: 066 91 52255.

www. charthousedingle. com.

The Mermaid Cafe

Despite its casual appearance, the Mermaid is one of the country's coolest restaurants. Laid back boho decor includes chunky wooden chairs, huge picture windows overlooking Dame Street and quirky art. Expect art from the brilliant kitchen too in the form of iconic New England crab cakes, blackened swordfish on fresh corn salsa, or pecan pie and maple ice cream. Hugely impressive and ultra chic since the day it opened.

69-70 Dame Street, Dublin 2. Tel: 670 8236.

www. mermaid. ie.