Sushi and saki:There something just right about sushi served in the Ice bar at the Four Seasons Hotel in Dublin 4.
Chef Yoichi, from Aya restaurant on Clarendon Street, has been quietly serving artfully constructed sashimi, nigiri and maki to the hotel's equally artfully constructed clientele since early spring, and, now the concept is fully developed, it's available from Tuesday to Saturday between 5pm and 10pm.
And what a good idea it is. The Japanese delicacies are served in a cool, spacious seating area slightly away from the frenetic posing pit around the bar, and in full view of the chef's station, where the sushi is made to order. You can also order platters to share if you wish. Saki cocktails and smooth service complete the perfect post-work chill-out.
No booking required.
Dressing up
William and Aisling O'Callaghan, the couple at the helm of the lovely Longueville House in Mallow, Co Cork, have taken a stand at the busy Thursday farmers' market at Mahon Point.
So now you don't have to be a guest at their country-house hotel to enjoy William's renowned preserves, pickles and dressings. He'll even give you cooking tips and serving suggestions to go with your purchase.
Everything the O'Callaghans sell is from Longueville's gardens and farm, including honey, fruit liqueurs and home-smoked salmon.
You could make a long weekend of it by booking in for the flute-and-harp recital to be given at Longueville by the German musicians Karin Leitner and Krassimira Ziegler on Monday, June 25th.
Champagne reception, recital and dinner costs €90; book at 022-47156.