A hidden gem tucked upstairs in the Central Hotel, dating from the building's reopening in 1991. Technically for residents only but who cares – uniformed and well-behaved staff will not make an issue of it anyway. Plush armchairs cry out to be sunk into with a good book on a snowy winter's day by a roaring fire. Plush chandeliers shining, heavy curtains draping, positively no radio or television blaring. Book-lined walls elevate the peaceable atmosphere and sense of retreat. Old ladies laden with shopping bags sip their tea, while actors compare notes on their auditions over glasses of stronger stuff. Shane McGowan, Stephen Rea and Brendan Gleeson have been known to frequent it now and again.

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