The Glass Curtain: Contemporary Irish Brasserie in Cork’s Victorian Quarter
A stylish brasserie in Cork’s Victorian Quarter serving innovative modern Irish cuisine with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and fire-cooked flavors.
The Glass Curtain is an upscale brasserie located in Thompson House on MacCurtain Street, Cork’s vibrant Victorian Quarter. Celebrated for its innovative modern Irish cuisine, the restaurant emphasizes seasonal, locally sourced ingredients prepared with a focus on fire and charcoal cooking techniques. Its intimate yet stylish atmosphere, combined with expertly crafted tasting menus and attentive service, offers a refined dining experience that balances casual warmth with culinary sophistication.
A brief summary to The Glass Curtain
- Thompson House, MacCurtain Street, Cork, Victorian Quarter, IE
- +353214518659
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Tuesday 5:30 pm-9 pm
- Wednesday 5:30 pm-9 pm
- Thursday 5:30 pm-9 pm
- Friday 5 pm-9:30 pm
- Saturday 5 pm-9:30 pm
Local tips
- Book well in advance to secure a table, especially for the popular tasting menu and weekend evenings.
- Try the tasting menu for a curated experience showcasing the chef’s creativity and seasonal ingredients.
- Arrive with an appetite but note the tasting menu is focused on quality and flavor rather than heavy portions.
- Consider pairing your meal with recommended wines, as the staff are knowledgeable and attentive.
- The intimate and warm atmosphere makes it ideal for special occasions or a refined night out.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Glass Curtain location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about The Glass Curtain
Origins and Culinary Philosophy
The Glass Curtain occupies a historic space once known as Thompson's Bakery, now transformed into a compact brasserie that honors Cork’s rich food heritage while embracing modern culinary innovation. The kitchen’s approach centers on celebrating the best of local produce, with a strong emphasis on seasonal and regional ingredients. Many dishes are cooked over fire and charcoal, lending a distinctive depth and smoky nuance to the flavors. This technique, combined with a pared-back style that lets the quality of ingredients shine, defines the restaurant’s unique culinary identity.Signature Dishes and Menu Highlights
The restaurant’s tasting menu is highly recommended for those seeking a diverse and exceptional culinary journey. Standout dishes often include expertly prepared meats such as lamb saddle, porterhouse steak, and collar of pork, each cooked to perfection with rich, yielding textures and balanced flavor profiles. Seafood offerings like monkfish also feature prominently, showcasing freshness and skillful preparation. Vegetables receive equal care, often enhanced by natural flavors and thoughtful accompaniments. The menu is designed for sharing, encouraging a convivial dining experience.Atmosphere and Dining Experience
Inside, The Glass Curtain presents a stylish monochrome décor accented by exposed pipework, creating a chic yet unpretentious setting. The ambiance is intimate and warm, fostering a relaxed environment where guests feel welcomed like family. The staff are known for their professionalism, friendliness, and detailed knowledge of both food and wine, enhancing the overall experience with attentive and personalized service. This balance of casual comfort and refined dining makes it suitable for special occasions or a memorable night out.Location and Surroundings
Situated in Cork’s Victorian Quarter, The Glass Curtain benefits from the area’s historic charm and lively cultural scene. MacCurtain Street is known for its blend of heritage architecture and contemporary urban energy, making the restaurant a fitting addition to this dynamic neighborhood. The venue’s compact size adds to its exclusivity and appeal, drawing diners who appreciate quality over quantity.Reservations and Practical Information
The Glass Curtain operates primarily in the evenings, with opening hours from Tuesday to Saturday, typically from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM. Due to its popularity and limited seating, advance reservations are highly recommended, especially for the tasting menu and weekend dining. While the experience is considered a treat with prices reflecting the quality and creativity of the cuisine, it remains a highlight for food enthusiasts visiting Cork.Local Impact and Recognition
The Glass Curtain has garnered acclaim for elevating Cork’s dining scene, blending local tradition with contemporary flair. It is praised for its innovative use of fire-based cooking and commitment to showcasing Cork’s finest ingredients. Though some find the pricing premium, the restaurant’s dedication to quality and hospitality secures its reputation as a must-visit destination for discerning diners in the region.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Father Mathew Statue
0.3 km
Discover the Father Mathew Statue in Cork, a historic landmark symbolizing the city's rich heritage and vibrant community spirit.
Eamon de Valera Bridge
0.4 km
Discover the Eamon de Valera Bridge in Cork, a stunning architectural landmark steeped in history, perfect for leisurely strolls and breathtaking views.
S Mall
0.6 km
Cork's elegant Georgian shopping street where historic architecture meets contemporary retail and culinary excellence.
Medieval City Wall (Balla Cathrach na Meánaoise)
0.7 km
Explore Cork's Medieval City Wall: A journey through history in the heart of the city, revealing ancient defenses and architectural ingenuity.
National Monument - Cork
0.8 km
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Nano Nagle Bridge
0.8 km
Experience the beauty and history of Nano Nagle Bridge in Cork, an architectural marvel connecting communities and offering stunning riverside views.
Original Walls of Saint Mary of the Isle
1.1 km
Discover the historic Original Walls of Saint Mary of the Isle in Cork's scenic The Lough area, open daily for a reflective journey into the past.
Dundanion House Bridge
3.2 km
Discover the historic charm of Dundanion House Bridge in Cork: scenic views, rich history, and architectural beauty await!
Blarney Castle & Gardens
7.7 km
Experience the charm of Blarney Castle & Gardens in Ireland, where history, beauty, and legends come together in a breathtaking setting.
Blarney Stone
7.7 km
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Old Church
12.4 km
Explore the historic Old Church of Cloyne in Co. Cork, a serene site rich in ecclesiastical heritage and stunning architecture amidst picturesque landscapes.
Cobh
13.0 km
Discover Cobh, a vibrant seaside town in County Cork, rich in maritime history and stunning coastal views, perfect for a memorable Irish getaway.
1 Pearse Square
13.1 km
Explore the enchanting Pearse Square in Cobh, a serene spot filled with historical significance and stunning coastal views.
Camden Fort Meagher
16.5 km
Explore Camden Fort Meagher: A historic fortress with breathtaking views, a local café, and engaging exhibits on Ireland's military history.
Island Wedge Tomb
20.0 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Paddywagon Tours Cork
0.2 km
Discover the beauty of Ireland with Paddywagon Tours Cork, your gateway to unforgettable adventures and stunning landscapes.
Merchants Quay Shopping Centre
0.3 km
A vibrant shopping and dining destination in the heart of Cork city, blending major retailers with cozy cafés and lively urban energy.
Cork Tourist Information Centre
0.3 km
Discover Cork with the Cork Tourist Information Centre, your essential guide to the city's attractions, culture, and local secrets.
Patrick's Hill
0.3 km
Experience Cork from above: panoramic views, historic charm, and a rewarding climb await at Patrick's Hill.
Kilkenny Design Emmett Place
0.4 km
Discover authentic Irish craftsmanship and contemporary design at Kilkenny Design, Cork’s premier destination for fashion, art, and homewares.
Cork Ghost Tour
0.4 km
Discover Cork’s haunted past on a thrilling, theatrical walking tour filled with ghost stories, history, and spooky fun for all ages.
The Long Valley Bar
0.4 km
Experience the warmth of Irish culture at The Long Valley Bar, Cork's iconic pub, offering local brews, hearty meals, and lively traditional music.
Crawford Art Gallery
0.4 km
Discover the artistic treasures of Crawford Art Gallery in Cork, where history and contemporary creativity converge in a stunning cultural experience.
Oliver Plunkett St
0.5 km
Historic heart of Cork city, Oliver Plunkett Street buzzes with shops, eateries, and vibrant nightlife in a charming pedestrianised setting.
Saints Peter and Paul's Roman Catholic Church
0.6 km
Explore the stunning Saints Peter and Paul's Roman Catholic Church in Cork, a masterpiece of architecture and a serene spiritual retreat in a bustling city.
Shandon Sweets
0.6 km
Experience Cork’s sweetest tradition with handmade boiled sweets crafted in the historic heart of Shandon since 1928.
St Anne's Church Shandon Bells & Tower
0.6 km
Discover the historic St. Anne's Church and its iconic Shandon Bells, a must-see attraction in Cork, Ireland, renowned for its stunning architecture and panoramic views.
Shandon Clock Tower
0.6 km
Experience the rich history and breathtaking views of Cork City from the iconic Shandon Clock Tower, a must-visit historical landmark.
Coal Quay Market
0.6 km
Experience Cork’s vibrant Saturday farmers’ market with fresh local produce, lively atmosphere, and rich historic roots on Cornmarket Street.
The Butter Museum
0.7 km
Explore the captivating history of butter at The Butter Museum in Cork, where tradition meets taste in this delightful tourist attraction.
Essential places to dine
The Glass Curtain
0.0 km
Experience contemporary Irish cuisine at The Glass Curtain in Cork's Victorian Quarter - where tradition meets innovation.
Thompsons Bar & Restaurant
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Isaac's Restaurant
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Greenes Restaurant
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Son of a Bun
0.2 km
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Gallagher's Cork
0.2 km
Experience Cork’s vibrant gastropub scene at Gallagher's, where legendary rock heritage meets fresh local cuisine and live music in the Victorian Quarter.
Da Mirco Osteria Italian Restaurant
0.2 km
Authentic northern Italian cuisine served with warmth and rustic charm in the heart of Cork’s Montenotte district.
Cork & Fork
0.3 km
Discover authentic Irish flavors at Cork & Fork, where homemade dishes meet a cozy café atmosphere in the heart of Cork.
Bocelli Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar
0.3 km
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Thali Nepal Restaurant
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Goldie
0.3 km
A vibrant seafood haven in Cork’s heart, Goldie serves sustainable, inventive dishes with a whole-fish philosophy and local charm.
Elbow Lane Brew and Smoke House
0.3 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine at Elbow Lane Brew and Smoke House in Cork – where tradition meets innovation in every bite.
Market Lane
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Scoozi
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Luigi Malones Cork
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
York St Clobber
0.1 km
A vibrant independent vintage clothing shop inside Mother Jones Market, perfect for unique retro finds and a relaxed Cork shopping experience.
Vibes & Scribes Crafts
0.2 km
Explore your creativity at Vibes & Scribes Crafts in Cork, your ultimate destination for all crafting supplies, yarn, fabric, and artistic inspiration.
Miss Daisy Blue
0.2 km
Explore the charm of vintage fashion at Miss Daisy Blue, a unique clothing store in Cork's Victorian Quarter offering curated retro treasures.
Unbound
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Unbound, a charming gift shop in Cork's Victorian Quarter, perfect for memorable souvenirs.
Born Clothing
0.3 km
Trendy and affordable fashion for men and women in Cork’s vibrant Merchants Quay Shopping Centre.
Carrolls Irish Gifts
0.3 km
Explore Carrolls Irish Gifts in Cork for the best selection of authentic Irish souvenirs, showcasing the rich culture and craftsmanship of Ireland.
Olori
0.3 km
Experience the charm of Olori, a boutique in Cork offering stylish women's clothing and unique fashion accessories in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Samui
0.4 km
Discover Samui, Cork’s luxury women’s boutique offering exclusive designer fashion and impeccable personal service in a stylish city centre setting.
Sheena's Boutique
0.4 km
Explore Sheena's Boutique in Cork for a unique selection of women's fashion and accessories, showcasing local designers and contemporary styles.
Penneys
0.4 km
Affordable fashion and homeware in the heart of Cork’s vibrant Saint Patrick’s Street shopping district.
Flying Tiger
0.5 km
Colorful Scandinavian design meets budget-friendly shopping in Cork's vibrant city centre.
Pinocchio's Toys & Gifts
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Nine Crows Cork
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Handpicked 90s and Y2K vintage fashion in Cork's city centre, where daily discoveries meet conscious style.
The North Face Cork
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Your go-to outdoor store in central Cork for The North Face clothing, footwear, and gear for hiking, climbing, skiing, and everyday adventures.
Vibes & Scribes Bookshop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cask
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The Shelbourne Bar
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Paladar
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Sin é
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The Poor Relation
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Old Oak
0.4 km
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The Hi-B Bar
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Arthur Mayne's Pharmacy
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Le Chateau
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L'Atitude 51 Wine Bar
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No.76
0.5 km
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The Thomond Bar
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Mutton Lane Inn
0.6 km
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Popscene Late Bar & Club
0.7 km
A lively late-night venue on Oliver Plunkett Street blending 80s tunes with a welcoming atmosphere for all ages in the heart of Cork.
An Bróg Bar + Kitchen
0.7 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Angels Cork t/a The Asylum Bar
0.3 km
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The Crane Lane Theatre
0.5 km
Experience Cork's vibrant nightlife at The Crane Lane Theatre, where live music, cocktails, and a lively atmosphere await.
Dali
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Experience Cork's nightlife at Dali Nightclub, where music and energy collide in an unforgettable evening of fun and dancing.
Eclipse Nightclub
0.7 km
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Voodoo Rooms
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Cork at Voodoo Rooms, where eclectic music and a lively atmosphere come together for an unforgettable night.
Vibe Gay Nightclub Cork
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant LGBTQ+ nightlife at Vibe Gay Nightclub Cork, where inclusivity meets electrifying entertainment.
The Secret Garden
0.8 km
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Le Cabaret, Cork
0.9 km
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The Bishopstown Bar & Restaurant
4.2 km
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ExpressDjs
48.8 km
ExpressDJs offers top-notch DJ services for any event in Ireland, ensuring unforgettable musical experiences tailored to your celebrations.
The Hiland
49.7 km
Discover electrifying nights at The Hiland, Co. Cork's top nightclub with dazzling lights, multiple dance floors, and vibrant nightlife.
The Hill Inn
64.2 km
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Tanyard
67.6 km
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Cotter's Bar & Chaser's Nightclub
67.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Gortnaclohy at Cotter's Bar & Chaser's Nightclub, where great drinks and music create unforgettable memories.
Jimmy Brien's Bar
73.3 km
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Weekend Getaway
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly