Radisson SAS Hotel St Helen's, Talavera Restaurant - Merrion

Originally one of Ireland's most important private houses, this stately Georgian mansion is surrounded by formally laid-out gardens and mature woodlands overlooking Dublin Bay. Over the years it has been meticulously restored and now ranks as one of the most auspicious venues in the southern quarters of the city.

Talavera offers guests a taste of Italy in elegant, open-plan surroundings spread over four inter-linking rooms. Most people head for the truly daunting antipasti buffet display, although the kitchen also offers alternative first courses in the shape of various pastas and risottos (try the squid ink version with peas). Main courses might range from grilled swordfish to baked saddle of rabbit with white wine, olives and lentils, while tiramisù is a star among the desserts. Carefully selected Italian bottles dominate the international, 100-bin wine list.