The Cornstore Restaurant Cork.

Situated in the busy Cornmarket area of Cork City, The Cornstore occupies an historic, and completely renovated two storey granite mill rights in the heart of this urban renewal centre.

The inside is stylishly and tastefully decorated with intricate floor tiling, warm wooden floors and wall panels, lots of exposed brick, a traditional bar and cosy booths. The glassware and napery are first class and it is evident that a lot of care and attention have gone into this project. The menu is based on steak and seafood, and the emphasis is on the use of fresh local ingredients at all times. The starters include a freshly baked loaf with a choice of garlic melted butter, or a selection of dips including hummus, pesto and tapenade. Alternatively there are two pates, a bowl of mussels or a warm goat’s cheese crostini.

The main courses offer a wide choice of seafood, with lobster making several appearances on the menu - whole or half as a main course. with salad and homemade chips, while also being an option on the signature dish of Chateaubriand for two, creating a seriously decadent, but delicious choice for the seriously hungry! Other seafood dishes include oven baked cod, pan seared salmon and a crab and tiger prawn risotto. There is also a catch of the day. Other choices come from the grill, with a choice of steaks, while there is a selection of perennial favourites like Thai curry, pork belly or duck breast, and a decent vegetarian menu to boot. All of the fish is sourced from local fisherman where possible, while the meat is carefully chosen, 100% Irish and hung for a minimum of 21 days.

The Cornstore has become a deservedly popular since it opened and enjoys a busy trade for both lunch and dinner. It is always reassuring that the place you have chosen to eat is full, and they seem to have gotten things right down in Cork with this very buzzy and lively spot. If you are living in Cork and haven’t tried it, there’s no better time, with some very good set lunch and dinner offers, while if you are planning on visiting the city soon, you should make this a stopping point.