368) The Den Bar of the Lansdowne Hotel, Pembroke Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4
We had our drinks outside - this was the only option open to us at the time, given the oft-mentioned Covidian restrictions still prevailing. A flotilla of umbrellas greeted the eye. Literal pansies are in bloom in the flowerpots, and there are many barrels and garden chairs. A gryphon-cum-eagle was within view, the mascot of the place. At one point we sat in the rain, a passing summer shower which made the array of umbrellas most welcome. The Guinness was five euros seventy - okay tasting. Andrew Stephens complained vociferously about some HUGE CHUNKS OF DIRT FOUND ON THE INSIDE OF HIS GLASS (these were subsequently revealed to be bits of orange juice fibre - so at least potentially nutritious - still very sloppy and careless).
A Gryphon keeping watch over The Den
The interior invited inspection, revealing a decent and traditional little bar - which came first, bar or hotel? Two flights up, one down - down is the interesting bit, but we’re not allowed yet to view it at any length, being unvaccinated at the time. Outside there is abundant leafy foliage, with the prospect of Raglan Road not far off, so very much Patrick Kavanagh country. We saw an old man in a tent reading a book with intent. Also on the premises is a certain ‘Laurie Lou’s Cake + Bake Shop’ - this is a Covid novelty. A menu reveals that their Aperol Spritz vends for nine euros - this FOUL Italian concoction isn’t worthy of nine cents. After the passing summer shower, the sun came out - and we got very red, as pasty gingers are wont to do when the UV rays get heavy - this caused us to think of the Isles of Aran. It was noted that the barmaid didn’t take our empties - and this on top of the aforementioned orange juice fibres found on the inside of the glass? Tut, tut! Something must be rotten in the state of the Den, Mark!
See the trees like GOD’s brushes dipped in emerald ink
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