Blackrock is home to charming coastal views, bustling streets, and the culinary pleasure that is Big Mike’s Restaurant. If you haven’t heard of Big Mike’s, you must have been living under a rock – Blackrock, that is (ok sorry for that joke)! Let me guide you through this delightful dining experience, and let’s hope you’ve brought your appetite and your sense of humor.
A Cosy Hideaway
Tucked away on the main street of Blackrock, Big Mike’s Restaurant is like finding a tenner in an old jacket—unexpected and utterly delightful. From the outside, it’s quite unassuming, but step inside and you’ll feel like you’ve stumbled into a gourmet wonderland. It’s cosy, with a warm, inviting atmosphere, and the faint sound of jazz in the background sets the perfect scene.
Meet Big Mike
First things first, let’s address the elephant in the room—who is Big Mike? Is he really that big? Is his name even Mike? The answers are well, no! Gaz Smith is the chef and the larger than life character who runs this fine restaurant. Gaz is very jolly and visible on X as well, with the storytelling prowess of your favorite uncle.
The Menu: A Symphony of Flavors
The menu at Big Mike’s is a tour de force of contemporary Irish cuisine with a twist. If you’re thinking potatoes and cabbage, think again. Big Mike’s takes the best of traditional Irish ingredients and combines them with international flavors to create dishes that will make your taste buds happy.
Starters to Begin Your Culinary Adventure
Kick off your meal with the Crab Claws drenched in garlic butter. They’re so good that you’ll be tempted to lick the plate clean – and nobody here will judge you for it. Or perhaps you’d prefer the Duck Liver Pâté, served with toast and a tangy onion marmalade that’s the perfect mix of sweet and savory. It’s a starter that whispers “sophisticated” but shouts “delicious.”
Main Courses: The Heart of the Feast
Moving on to the mains, you’re in for a treat. The Seafood Chowder is a must-try, packed with fresh catches from the nearby coast. It’s creamy, rich, and will have you debating whether you need to move closer to the sea just to eat this every day.
Then there’s the Beef and Guinness Stew, a dish so lovely and comforting it could tuck you into bed and read you a story. The beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the Guinness adds a touch of flavor that’s, well, Irish. It’s like getting a warm hug from Gaz Smith himself.
For something a bit more exotic, try the Moroccan Lamb Tagine. Yes, you read that right. Big Mikes are not afraid to mix things up, and this dish is a perfect example. The lamb is cooked to perfection, with spices that will transport you straight to Marrakesh.
Vegetarians, Rejoice!
If you’re a vegetarian, don’t worry. You are covered with dishes like the Sweet Potato and Chickpea Curry. It’s got real flavour, so even the most dedicated carnivore at your table will be eyeing it with envy – well maybe!
Desserts: Save Room for Sweetness
By the time you get to dessert, you might be thinking you can’t eat another bite. But let me tell you, missing out on Big Mike’s desserts would be a culinary crime. The Sticky Toffee Pudding is a an Instagram favorite, with a rich, gooey center and a scoop of vanilla ice cream that melts just perfectly.
Or perhaps you’d prefer the Bailey’s Cheesecake, a decadent treat that combines two of Ireland’s greatest exports: whiskey and dairy. It’s creamy, boozy, and absolutely irresistible.
Drinks: A Toast to Big Mike
Of course, no meal at Big Mike’s is complete without a drink, or three. The bar is well-stocked with a good selection of Irish whiskeys, beers, and wines from around the world. We recommend the Irish Coffee to end your meal. It’s the perfect blend of coffee, whiskey, and cream, guaranteed to warm you up on even the chilliest Dublin day.
The Verdict: A Super Experience
Big Mike’s Restaurant is a super place to go. The staff are really great, the food is fantastic, and the atmosphere is second to none. Whether you’re a local looking for a new favorite spot or a tourist wanting to experience the best of Dublin’s dining scene, Big Mike’s is a great choice. And don’t forget, hopping on a a DART to Blackrock Train Station is a super convenient way to get to the area.
So, if you find yourself wandering around Blackrock, do yourself a favor and pop into Big Mike’s. Come hungry and leave happy! You can check out their website: Big Mike’s, Blackrock.
