No Myth Here - The Unicorn Delivers in Dublin 2

Pasta being tossed over open flames as we walked into the kitchen, fresh shavings of truffle layered generously onto a perfectly creamy risotto, standout fish and desserts indulgent enough to send you happily into a food coma - that was our lunch at The Unicorn on Merrion Court. With chef Kristan Burness bringing serious energy to the pass and a new pre-theatre menu now in play, this Dublin 2 staple feels nothing like routine dining and, in true Unicorn fashion, more like a fantasy for your palate. 

Our recent visit was centred around the new pre-theatre menu, a fantastic addition for those heading into town for a show or simply looking for a special early-evening experience. From viewing the menu (€32 for a two-course meal and €38 for three) it became immediately clear that this is far from a scaled-down offering or a compromise on quality. Instead, it is a well-rounded showcase of what the restaurant does best, delivering real value while maintaining a strong emphasis on carefully sourced local and artisan ingredients that elevate each dish.

We began with Burrata di Bufala, an artisanal burrata with heritage tomato and basil, as well as West Cork scallops, which came presented with Hicks black pudding as well as apple & prosecco - two starters that set the tone beautifully. The burrata was indulgently creamy, and the scallops were delicately cooked, sweet and tender. During this time service was attentive and quick.

For the mains, we were served Linguine Piccanti ai Gamberoni, which we actually had the pleasure of seeing cooked live. Chef Kristan Burness was at the stove as we stepped into the kitchen - “It’s been a dream of mine to come back and finish what I started here ten years ago. This place has always meant something special to me and I’m proud to build on what we began,” he said. Burness clearly runs a tight kitchen but does it with enthusiasm. Watching him work gave real insight into the precision & thought behind the dishes. That combination comes through in the food - it’s generous and well executed.

This meal delivered exactly what it promised with gentle heat, fresh seafood, and pasta cooked to a perfect al dente bite. Next up was the Risotto con Funghi e Tartufo, which we had high hopes for after the team at The Unicorn highlighted this was their favourite dish. It did not disappoint! The fresh shavings of truffle combined with the creaminess and texture of the risotto was absolutely incredible, and a standout dish at this restaurant. 

Of course, we couldn’t leave without trying some seafood beyond scallops and shrimp. Our red mullet mains were served with a healthy dash of greens and some thinly sliced potatoes. This fish was very delicate and had soaked up the light sauce on the plate well. 

Even if you have theatre plans looming, dessert here is non-negotiable. The tiramisu was classic and generous served with some nuts on top and was delightfully fluffy. The apple tart is the ideal choice for someone looking for a bit of warm comfort food especially during Dublin' s rainier spells, and the lemon tart was sharp with a delicate, flamed crust and presentation so pretty it was almost a shame to eat.

As for the space itself, the dining room remains one of The Unicorn’s strengths. It’s quiet, intimate and ideal for conversation. Service was attentive and genuinely thoughtful throughout. The adjoining No.5 Bar is also worth highlighting, as it makes for a great pre-dinner drink spot or somewhere to linger after your meal. 

Another major plus is its central Merrion Court location in Dublin 2. It’s incredibly easy to get to with the Luas, Dart & multiple bus connections nearby, and is perfectly placed for when you’re heading into town, going to a show, or making a full night of it. Being so well connected makes it a great choice.

As Mariana de Lima, the General Manager of the Restaurant, put it -“The Unicorn is an institution in Dublin’s dining history” is something we hear often from our guests. Many have been coming for years, and others who grew up hearing stories are now part of the journey themselves. The history is palpable, and the connection people feel is nostalgic in the best way, and we’re proud to be building the next chapter of that legacy.”

Special Deals & Events

With Mother’s Day approaching, the restaurant is preparing a dedicated three-course menu (€55 per person) - a lovely opportunity to treat mam to a proper Italian meal. Blending the finest Irish produce with confident Italian craftsmanship, the menu offers dishes that that are both elegant and refined.

Begin with vibrant starters such as artisanal burrata or sautéed king prawns with ’nduja butter. Mains include wild mushroom and black truffle risotto, free-range chicken cacciatore, fresh cod with lobster jus, and dry-aged Irish sirloin served with Chianti jus. To finish, guests can linger over hazelnut and chocolate tiramisu, Valrhona chocolate fondant, or caramelised apple tart with salted caramel.

The Unicorn is also a great shout for a proper girly wine and dine experience. You can enjoy a drink in the No.5 Bar, big bowls of pasta for the table, a round (or two) of tiramisu, and once again an intimate dining space that feels perfect for birthdays, catch-ups or just an overdue night out. 

The Unicorn continues to do what it does best, with quality Italian cooking, a fabulous atmosphere and a chef who brings real energy to the pass, alongside staff who make the experience extra special.

Interested in dining at The Unicorn? The pre-theatre menu is priced at €32 for a 2-course meal, and €38 for a 3-course meal. The Mother’s Day menu is priced at €55 for a 3-course meal. To view the menu and to make a reservation, visit www.unicornrestaurant.ie

Thank you to The Unicorn for inviting us in to preview the new menu. From the kitchen energy to the truffle-topped risotto and beautifully cooked seafood, the food spoke for itself. Service was attentive and welcoming throughout, making the whole experience feel easy and enjoyable. It’s a spot we’d confidently recommend, and one we’ll happily return to.