The Shack Restaurant — Restaurant in Dublin

This was a "where to eat?!?!" sorta' evening. Our group's business meeting got out late. An original plan was scrapped. So, we found ourselves in the Temple Bar area on a surprisingly busy Tuesday evening. The Shack's staff was able to seat us, willing to handle multiple credit cards, and ushered us in for a meal.

The restaurant was lovely. It actually felt like you weren't in the Temple Bar area (until you looked outside the window and watched the hilarious assemblage of drunks dancing in the street!).

The starters were good. The bread was hearty. The salad I ordered was tasty, if a bit odd. They only serve tiny flat and sparkling waters (a place the next night sold the larger version of the same thing for almost the same price).

Thing is, some of the mains fell flat. The seafood chowder had lots of vegetables and actual seafood that was cooked well enough. But the dish was flat seasoning-wise. I mean, I had to add (and then add again) salt and pepper. The lamb shank? Maybe it was an off night or they were dealing with a supplier that only sells miniature lambs. But it was the size of a slightly obese pigeon and on the tough side.

The server was exceptional (dealing with an eight-top of worn down tourists has to be a special sort of challenge). The host was a true find (I admit, if I lived there, I would have asked them out . . . even if I am sure they are taken!). We had a nice chat about Yeats wherein they offered some suggestions re: his poems). I was so taken with their charm and affectations that I promptly forgot which poem was recommended!

In a pinch, and in an area notorious for so-so offerings, this place will do well enough. It did for us, as harried and tired as we were after a long day. Not sure I would go back. But I am certain that, whoever the host engages, they will be captivated!

Thanks for helping us out that night....

UPDATES: See response from owner. Says all you need to know about their 'customer service'. An attitude problem, if ever there was one. Has the audacity to claim anyone who leaves anything but a glowing review is lying. If, as they asked me to do so, they recalled events correctly, they couldn't - they were not present on the occasion. It was not busy, and they do not know the nature of the enquiry to assume anything, anyway. Also, the enquiry was actually made outside, as I never set foot inside due to the attitude of the waitress, (who it is now evidently clear is trained by the manager, in rudeness). And, as google reviews is a public platform to share your honest experiences, I am entitled to do just that, as I have countless times before, leaving many, many 5 star reviews for many great businesses I have visited. Just because this review is not such a review, and in line with what the narcissistic owner thinks of his business, does not mean it is vomiting vileness. That appears to be what they do when they respond to negative reviews because they clearly can't handle the truth. They are rude and have installed this as an acceptable standard of practice in some their staff.

Waitress was not very welcoming when we made a simple enquiry. In fact she was quite rude and curt, so we...

Shack Restaurant Temple Bar in Dublin is a hidden gem that truly exceeded my expectations. The food and service were so impressive that I found myself returning to the restaurant twice during my week-long stay in Dublin.

On both occasions, my friend and I were greeted warmly by the staff, including the manager and a lovely Romanian girl who served us. They went above and beyond to make us feel welcome and even took the time to provide us with recommendations for things to do in Dublin and Ireland. They also gave us clear instructions on where to find the bus station to Kilkenny, which was incredibly helpful.

Now, let's talk about the food. The Dublin Seafood chowder was an absolute highlight of my dining experience. It was served with the most delectable bread and salted butter that perfectly complemented the rich and creamy chowder. It was so good that I ordered it both times I visited the restaurant. And to wash it down, a glass of Guinness made it a perfect combination.

Overall, I can't recommend Shack Restaurant Temple Bar enough. The service was impeccable, the atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and the food was simply outstanding. If you're looking for a memorable dining experience in Dublin, make sure to add Shack Restaurant Temple Bar to your list of...