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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.

4.8

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
  • Environment icon 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.
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The Glass Curtain location weather suitability

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  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
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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.

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