Rare 1784

"Rare things are often hard to find and the same could be said for this establishment. Quitely tucked away at the back of the Blue Haven, you could very easily walk past the doors of Rare and find yourself in the hotel bar. However, like all things Rare, the finder knows immediately that they have stumbled upon something special when they enter this restaurant. Warmly welcomed soon you cross the threshold, the first thing that impresses is the well stocked bar where, upon ordering pre-dinner drinks, you will quickly learn the mantra behind the Rare experience - Local. From the cocktails that come with a dash of theatre as they set them on fire, to the vegetables on your final dish, guests will be informed throughout on the efforts to weave local produce into every element. Whether it be the whiskey in an old fashioned or the rolled picked carrot upon the scallop and Gubbeen starter, you get the names of the local masters that worked hard to produce them. Considered and balanced use of spice in every dish is a feature of Rare. On top of a savoury cinnamon brioche, an explosive champagne butter adorned with edible flowers has wonderful and unexpected heat. The monk fish, caught in Union Hall is served with 12 spices, again delivering subtle and pleasing warmth that never overpowers. Vegetables sourced from the farms around Kinsale are featured in numerous forms within each dish. Beetroot, presented as a gel, a puree and pickled, elevates a local goats cheese. Celeriac prepared 2 ways is served with Irish venison, in a sauce using a local mead that just tastes electric. Throughout the whole evening, the food at Rare is coupled perfectly with a fabulous service team whom all work hard to make each table feel like a guests of honor. The customer focus and attention to detail while still maintaining a relaxed ambience as the cure play in the background is really something to be proud of. Front of house is led by the sommelier who's knowledge, talent and radiant charm are qualities as easy to come by, as the name of this restaurant - all of which makes for a memorable dining experience."

"Amazing dining experience. Cannot recommend this place enough. Incredible high quality food and drink, and the service was the best I've ever recieved. Thank you so much to Charlie and her team."

"What an incredible experience! We were warmly welcomed by the lovely Charlie who took care of us for the night. The food was phenomenal with each dish being different and unique. All dishes were described in detail along with beautifully made cocktails that were presented at our table. I would highly recommend an evening at rare. Thanks to all the staff for their brilliant work that night!"