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Leinster Rugby players open Mediterranean-inspired bar
Former Leinster Rugby players Sean O’Brien, Jamie Heaslip, Rob Kearney and Dave Kearney will be tackling the bar business as they open Little Lemon in central Dublin.
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The players previously opened Dublin’s Lemon & Duke The restaurant draws on European and South American culinary influences, with a strong emphasis on mixology. They also set up The Bridge 1859 and The Blackrock in the Irish capital.
The new bar, on Royal Hibernian Way, is described as a “Mediterranean-inspired cocktail and wine bar that takes pride in offering a tantalizing menu centered around fresh seafood, succulent meats, flavorful charcuterie, and locally sourced ingredients.”
In addition to offering a range of spritzes, the drinks menu has a particular emphasis on Italian and French wine. Among the big names, and big prices, on the list is the 2013 Dom Pérignon Brut (€260), 2018 Ornellaia (€400), and 2019 Opus One (€700).
The food draws inspiration from across Southern Europe, with small plates including croquetas de jamón, calamari and bouillabaisse.
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The group, consisting of the ex-Leinster and ex-Ireland international stars, also includes Noel Anderson, Licensed Vintners Association chair.
Anderson, who serves as managing director of Little Lemon as well as the ex-players’ other bars, said: “We certainly think there is a gap in the market for this type of offering in Dublin City Centre. People really enjoy the lighter way of dining and socialising that they experience on their holidays to the Mediterranean.”
“Our research, and indeed our experience from our other venues, has shown that some people really want that type of experience to be available in Dublin. That is the central idea behind Little Lemon and it is why we are really excited to be opening this new venue,” Anderson added.
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