Salinas Bistro — Restaurant in The Municipal District of East Cork

We have been to Salinas before and always left happy. However, today we did not have the same experience. There were 3 tables in the restaurant and yet we had to wait 15 minutes for someone to come and take our order, the same issue re-emerged when we were finished our starters. My partner’s food was lovely but I cannot say the same for mine. I had asked the waitress if the spicy prawn tagliatelle (a beautiful dish that was on the menu last time we were in Salinas) was still available, to which she said that yes it was, it was this weekend’s special. The specials were not available to us so I could not cross check. I was delighted! The waitress did say that it was not pasta but it was something else, knowing Salinas does Arabic food I just expected the something else to be an Arabic carb or something of the sort, as long as I had my spicy sauce I was happy. The dish came and it was a bowl of a not spicy, cream sauce and about 10-13 over cooked prawns. There was a bit of Paprika on it but there was no spice for a spicy dish. We were in a rush so I didn’t send it back (I understand that’s where I lie at fault) but I paid €18.95 for a bowl with a cream sauce, garlic bread and prawns. I love prawns and so get them out whenever and wherever possible but never in my life have I paid such prices for what I got!!!

This is not to deter anyone from Salinas, it is a fantastic spot in Midleton but just something to...

I really enjoyed my meal here, the food was fantastic and the staff were incredible. The atmosphere was wonderful and the hand-painted art on the walls of the restaurant as well as on the stairs when going up were beautiful, the place seems like a real labour of love and it’s obvious every member of staff take huge pride in this restaurant. There are a large variety of options on the menu and the portions were huge! We were seated by the window and had a great view of the town, and the staff were very welcoming and friendly and made every effort to ensure we were all happy and didn’t need anything. One man in particular made an effort to chat with my family and even brought a complimentary dessert to celebrate my father’s birthday which was really kind, I wish we got his name because he was a very generous host. The lamb kofta was absolutely gorgeous and I will definitely be back to try more options on the menu as they all looked delicious and it was a struggle to pick just one. The menu also included vegetarian and vegan options so it’s suitable for pretty much anyone, as well as a play area for young kids which is very thoughtful. Thanks so much to all the staff for making a wonderful evening for my family, I have absolutely no complaints and will definitely be a...

Amazing food and great dinning experience. This was our first meal out since lock down so excitement and anticipation was high... But wow what a treat we had! Our group went for a mix of mains (mixed grill, Syrian platter and fava beans) which was perfect to get a taste for all the FAB flavours, each as tasty as the next 🤤. Nothing is too much to ask for the wonderful owner and staff. We had some decorations for our friends birthday which they had placed in our private corner table before we arrived along with a bottle of chilled bubbles 🍾. The chef/owner was so attentive and passionate about his food. He made time for every table, happily explained the food made and sure we were completely looked after drying our stay. For finish we had the ice cream and pancakes which was the ideal finish for our full bellies. Really wonderful night out, with all the social distancing/sanitisation practices in place and great price too. Top tip: be sure to go hungry and enjoy the Middle Eastern experience! Thanks a million we...