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Chequer Lane by Jamie OliverB+Worth Trying

Name: Chequer Lane by Jamie Oliver
Address: 27 Exchequer St, Dublin, D02 A527, Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
Rating: 4.7

27 Exchequer St, Dublin, D02 A527, Ireland · Restaurant, Family restaurant, Fine dining restaurant · 4.7/5 Google (1295 reviews)

Reservations · Outdoor seating

Modern Irish dishes with polished service in central Dublin; excellent steaks, scallops, and desserts, but pricing is premium and occasional service or seafood inconsistencies appear on busy nights.

Why it gets a B+ for overall quality

Chequer Lane delivers solid neighborhood dining through strong food quality anchored by well-executed steaks, scallops, and desserts, paired with warm, attentive service that elevates the experience. However, inconsistent execution on seafood and pasta during peak service prevents a higher grade, and the premium central Dublin pricing, while justified by quality, limits broader appeal. Worth visiting for special occasions or early bookings when the kitchen operates at its best.

Restaurant Summary

Set on a lively city-centre street, Chequer Lane blends polished hospitality with a relaxed buzz and plush touches. Guests remark that service feels warm and attentive, with staff guiding wine choices and marking celebrations graciously. One diner summed it up: "from welcome to Irish coffee, everything felt thoughtfully paced." Expect a room that feels premium without pretension and a pace that hums on weekends. The cooking leans modern Irish via elevated classics: steak frites with proper char and butter, scallops baked in-shell, prawn cocktail, Scotch egg, and a comforting vol-au-vent. Desserts like sticky toffee pudding deliver a nostalgic finish. Most visits praise careful execution and good ingredients, while a minority flag off nights for seafood or pasta when it is very busy. Pricing is premium for central Dublin but generally matches the quality and setting. Families will find enough familiar anchors—burger, fish and chips, Caesar with chicken, comforting pastas—for younger palates. There is a vegan curry and sides that can be simplified, though it is not a kids-first spot. For an easier time, book early evening, ask for a quieter corner, and lean into crowd-pleasing staples if your group is cautious.

At a Glance

Attentive, personable service with memorable touches
Elevated Irish comfort dishes and strong desserts
Premium pricing in central location
Occasional inconsistencies with seafood or pasta on busy nights
Book ahead for weekends and holidays

What Sets It Apart

elevated_classics
central_city_location
strong_service_personalities

What People Love

Steaks cooked to preference with rich sauces
Baked scallops and seafood starters
Sticky toffee pudding and panna cotta finishes
Servers who anticipate needs without hovering
A premium vibe that still feels welcoming

Points of Concern

Seafood inconsistencies appear occasionally, including rare illness allegations; consider cooked options if sensitive
Pasta texture and seasoning can vary on peak shifts
Noise and crowding possible near bar or basement on busy nights
Pricing is genuinely expensive (€25+ mains) which may surprise casual diners

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost€55-72 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

For conservative eaters: steak frites, roast chicken, burger
For vegetarians/vegans: burrata starter, buttered cauliflower & chickpea curry, veg sides
Seafood fans: baked scallops, market fish; confirm provenance and preparation when ordering

Perfect For

A celebratory date night with classic dishes
Out-of-towners seeking polished Irish cooking near Grafton Street
Small group birthdays with reliable service
Business dinners where ambiance matters

Location Insights

Area: Bustling central-city street with boutiques and bars; draws locals, business diners, and visitors.

Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked core with nightlife; typical city vigilance at night.

Nearby: Near Grafton Street shopping, cultural venues, and numerous restaurants and pubs.

Temple BarTemple Bar is a lively and historic neighborhood famous for its cobbled streets, pubs, galleries, and a diverse dining scene ranging from casual eateries to fine dining. It attracts a mix of visitors and locals looking for vibrant social and cultural experiences, with a strong emphasis on nightlife and entertainment.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday17:00–21:00 Tuesday12:30–21:00 Wednesday12:30–21:00 Thursday12:30–22:00 Friday12:30–22:00 Saturday12:30–22:00 Sunday13:00–21:00

Available: Reservations, Outdoor seating

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