MILLARS - FINAGHY’S FINEST

TRAVEL - ARMENIA

FINAGHY’S FINEST //

LIKE THE REST OF humanity I have been itching to get out to Wine & Dine, restrictions simply went on too long though I know they were needed, as soon as easing was announced and hospitality was given the go ahead to welcome back customers I made it my mission to get a table booked in Millar’s Restaurant, I must admit I had been eagerly watching their Facebook from they opened and the food looked divine that I simply had to try it for myself. So where is Millar’s you ask? It is in Finaghy, a short 10-minute train trip from the City Centre which is super ideal if you do not want the expense of Taxi’s and you plan to have a beverage or 2 and that is exactly what we done. After a minor delay we hoped a train from Great Victoria to Finaghy, strolled around to Millar’s which was easy to find and with Belly’s rumbling we were ready to Dine. First impressions, the place was so fresh, clean, and tidy, somewhat minimalistic, tastefully decorated with pieces of art on the walls which patrons were able to purchase and staff that greeted us on arrival were so welcoming and polite. Unsurprisingly the place was bustling with diners, couples, and families alike, it was so lovely to see and feel that sense of normality. We were shown to our table, had a chat with Matthew who gave us time with Menu’s and swiftly presented us with a bottle of wine to get the tastebuds flowing.

To Start the menu has 7 tempting options, the majority appealing to me, after hemming and hawing I decided to order the Wild Mushroom Risotto, Risotto is one of those dishes I always think about though don’t usually order though fancying something different I went for it and I was not disappointed, it was served with Blue Cheese, Parmesan Crisp and Chive Oil, it was so moreish though with a main on the agenda I had to stop myself, I could have devoured the lot and I must say the portion was more like a main than a starter. My guest ordered the Smoked duck breast, bitter orange relish, brioche croutons, pickled carrot and she assured me it was lovely. Other starter options include Red Mullet, Smoked Salmon, Wood Pigeon Salad and Crispy Buttermilk Chicken so definitely something to please all palates. While waiting on our main we enjoyed and took in the atmosphere, used the facilities, and unapologetically polished off our bottle of vino Matthew being super attentive arranged for a 2nd bottle which in hindsight was maybe not needed though while in Rome lol Julie, my guest being super predictive order the Fillet Steak, It was cooked to perfection, I pinched a bite and it was so tasty, it was served with roasted portobello mushroom, vine tomatoes & choice of side & sauce. For me again I decided to go for something slightly out of my norm by ordering the Lamb and I am super glad I did, although semi full from the Risotto I practically cleaned the plate, I cannot fault the cooking, I’m not one for pink lamb as chef’s like it to be served and as requested they cooked it a tad longer to please me, and that they did! The Lamb came with clonakilty black pudding croquettes, goats cheese, black garlic, rosemary jus, when I return I shall definitely be ordering again it honestly was so good. The menu is what I could call tradition with a

twist, things that people will be familiar with though incorporating that extra something out of the box that make the dishes harmonise. Other options include Chicken, Breast, Pork Belly, Duck and some fish options such as Monk Fish, Grilled Haddock, all with suitable accompaniments and sides. Now well into the 2nd bottle of wine, with slightly blurred vision and the top button of my jeans undone I hold my hand up in defeat, no room for desert though thankfully with Julie on hand I twisted her arm into ordering a sweet purely for the benefit of this review of course lol. Deserts included a Pear and Apple Frangipane, Coconut Panna Cotta, Dark Chocolate Pot or there was an Irish Cheese Selection though Julie opted for the Orange Crème Brulee, it was so good just as you would expect in a fine dining establishment with a perfectly crisp top ready for cracking, it was served with almond shortbread and Chantilly Cream. Oh, I must also add while in my head that they had a dedicated Vegan and Vegetarian Menu with multiple starter and main choices, I had a nosy and given only this menu I would have been completely happy and eager to try the Salted & Chilli Tofu with Asian Slaw and to follow definitely the Roasted Cauliflower Steak with Parisienne

potatoes, yum! In closing we had a wonderful evening, I must thank the owner and staff for a flawless service and food to match, they went over and above to ensure we were looked after, I cannot wait to return and cannot recommend enough, thank you so much.

Review by Daniel May

Average 2 course meal comes it at around £27.50 and worth every penny in my opinion. Millar’s Restaurant is situated at 135 Upper Lisburn RoadYou can find them on Facebook

and online or simply call 02896 001545.